Giving and receiving feedback
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As we discussed in Section 1, the answer is - through feedback.
Giving and receiving feedback is an important part of working with others in a team.
It keeps communication channels open so that everyone understands how they are performing and whether any problems need to be addressed.
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Receiving feedback
Getting positive feedback on the work you're doing is a real pat on the back.
It lets you know you're on the right track and gives you a boost of confidence.
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But if you handle it properly it can help you learn and improve your performance.
By turning critical comments into constructive advice, you will make the most of what you're being told and grow from the experience.
Click on the link below to see some suggestions on how to do this.
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Dealing with conflict
Conflict occurs when people can't resolve their differences.
Sometimes it starts with a disagreement over how to go about a job, or who is responsible for a particular issue.
Other times it could be the result of one person rubbing someone else up the wrong way.
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So it's normal to have a bit of stress or the odd harsh word from time to time.
But if the negative emotions develop into an on-going state of conflict, it can become very unpleasant for the people involved and quite counterproductive for the whole team.
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Your first response should be to approach them directly and try to resolve it together.
If that fails, you should take the matter to your boss or supervisor.
If your boss or supervisor is actually part of the problem, you may need to find another person who can act as a 'mediator' for you and discuss the issues on your behalf.
Click on the link below to see some guidelines on how to handle a conflict situation with another team member.
Learning activity
Audio 7 (mp3 |6|KB)The more receptive you are to feedback, the more inclined people will be to help you with advice and little hints along the way.
Below are a range of responses you could give to the feedback that you're being offered. Some of these responses are likely to encourage people to continue offering constructive comments in the future. The other responses are more likely to turn them off from wanting to help with further advice.
Rate these responses as 'good' or 'bad', depending on the message they're likely to give the person providing the feedback. If you're studying this unit with another learner, discuss the effect these responses would have.
- Maintaining a lot of eye contact and nodding.
- Looking at your watch and fidgeting.
- Waiting for the other person to finish making their point, even if you want to butt in and disagree.
- Folding your arms and looking into the distance.