These suggestions will help you build supportiveness in the workplace. They are especially important if you are a supervisor or manager.
Encourage honest communication. Workplace climates are most supportive when people view one another as honest and open. Adopt a flexible mind-set. Be open to others' ideas, criticisms, and suggestions. Examine your own ideas for weaknesses. Avoid using absolutes (“This is the only option”). Collaborate rather than control. Avoid trying to manipulate others. Instead, ask for their ideas and perspectives. Describe challenges rather than assign blame. When problems arise at work, talk about them in neutral terms rather than pointing fingers. Offer concern rather than professional detachment. When coworkers or employees seek your support on personal dilemmas, demonstrate empathy, respect, and understanding. Emphasize equality. Avoid pulling rank on people. When you have power over others, it's vital to treat them with respect.

These suggestions will help you build supportiveness in the workplace. They are especially important if you are a supervisor or manager.

Encourage honest communication. Workplace climates are most supportive when people view one another as honest and open.
Adopt a flexible mind-set. Be open to others' ideas, criticisms, and suggestions. Examine your own ideas for weaknesses. Avoid using absolutes (“This is the only option”).
Collaborate rather than control. Avoid trying to manipulate others. Instead, ask for their ideas and perspectives.
Describe challenges rather than assign blame. When problems arise at work, talk about them in neutral terms rather than pointing fingers.
Offer concern rather than professional detachment. When coworkers or employees seek your support on personal dilemmas, demonstrate empathy, respect, and understanding.
Emphasize equality. Avoid pulling rank on people. When you have power over others, it's vital to treat them with respect.