How to Communicate: Relationship Maintenance At Work
HOW TO COMMUNICATE|Video Skills
RELATIONSHIP MAINTENANCE AT WORK
One way to improve your communication competence is by learning how to adapt to changing circumstances. Learn how to maintain your workplace relationships by completing the How to Communicate video activity below.
CONSIDER THIS:
For the last two years, you’ve worked side-by-side with Hannah. She is your closest friend at work, and she’s funny, smart, and supportive. Recently, Hannah was promoted. Starting next week, she will be working in a different location and you will see her only occasionally.
WHAT WOULD YOU DO?
The advice below illustrates how relational maintenance skills can allow your relationship to continue to thrive. As you watch the video, consider how the dialogue incorporates elements of positivity, assurances, and self-disclosure. Then, test your knowledge of key skills, and create your own responses to the What if? video prompts on the next page.
Download transcript
USE POSITIVITY IN YOUR COMMUNICATION to let her know that your excitement about her good fortune outweighs your disappointment about not working with her anymore. (“I am so excited for you! I know how much this promotion means to you, and how hard you worked to get it. We should go out and celebrate sometime soon—my treat.”)
OFFER ASSURANCES TO HER, emphasizing how much you value her friendship and making plans for continuing the relationship into the future. (“You know, you’re really my best friend here. Don’t think that just because you’re moving that will end. We should set up a regular lunch date so we can stay caught up on all the stuff that’s going on in our lives.”)
DISCLOSE YOUR FEELINGS TO HER, and encourage her to do the same in return. (“Although I’m thrilled for you, I’m sad for me. I’m really going to miss you. How are you feeling about it all?”)