The document discusses developing an upbeat workplace through improving informal communication. It covers topics like emotional intelligence theories, how emotions can be contagious positively or negatively, and the impact of toxicity, mood, and organizational climate. It also addresses whether gossip in the workplace can be helpful or harmful, and how pulling a team together positively impacts morale and productivity.

1. Developing an upbeat
workplace
USING INFORMAL COMMUNICATION WELL

2. Welcome Values
Emotional
Intelligence
Impact Charter

3. Welcome
o Housekeeping
o Introductions
o Objectives
o Learning Agreement
o Concerns and Expectations

4. Objective
To reflect upon the informal
communication we share, how we do it
and how it can increase everyone’s sense
of well being

5. Communication
Informal / Ungoverned Formal
Verbal ‘Had a good weekend?’ When will you have the
information I need for my report
Non – Verbal
( body language etc.)
A smile Depending on context , a nod of
the head
Written Have you seen this it’s great
https://youtu.be/CSK1D3bZhRs
Cat vs printer
Please visit Mr. Holmes in twos
until future notice

6. Your Values
Respect
We have a commitment to fairness and equality. We acknowledge an
individual's needs, beliefs and their right to make their own choices.
Quality
We have a commitment to delivering excellence; providing a high
standard of services with a person centred approach.
Partnership
We work with others to create trusting and positive relationships which
enhance the delivery of services for the benefit of the community.
Empowerment
We encourage service users and staff to develop their existing skills
and knowledge. We help to build self-confidence and increase
opportunities to make positive contributions.
Positivity
We have an optimistic attitude and approach which is focussed upon
identifying innovative solutions for all.
(Rachel quizzed people everyone’s
positive)

7. Icebreaker
Only ever as good as the reflections
and therefore learning that comes
from it

8. Emotional
Intelligence Theories
CAN WE USE THEM TO IMPROVE THE OUTCOMES OF INFORMAL
COMMUNICATION?

9. Potted IQ
To be emotionally intelligent we must have some skills in each of these areas
o Emotional Self Awareness
o Accurate Self Assessment
o Self Management
o Social Awareness
o Relationship Management

10. Emotions are ‘Contagious’
o Happiness, Optimism,
Confidence, Delight are more
contagious than harmful
emotions
o Depression, Cynicism,
Pessimism, Gloom, Distrust are
also contagious

11. Toxicity , Mood, Climate
oA person can be toxic
oTogether we create the mood of the building
oLong term we develop the climate of the organisation

12. Scenario
Workplace of twelve frontline staff, five support staff, 3 managers.
Working in one building but in 9 rooms.
The climate was of distrust , dislike – everyone hated being at work
The symptoms – no one helped others, everyone was discussed unkindly, any action by
managers where criticised.
What do you think had gone wrong?
What do you think did (could have) sort out the problem ?

13. Is chatting / gossip /
rumour good or bad
for us ?
IN WHAT WAYS DOES IT HELP AND/OR HINDER

14. Anthropologists believe that throughout human history, gossip has been a way for us to bond with others—and
sometimes a tool to isolate those who aren’t supporting the group.
Some argue that, at least in the workplace gossip serves a useful purpose, gossip is a force that ties together
social and business networks.
Others identify it as a way to see behind the curtain of employer pronouncements.
Both research and the experiences of those who have been the targets of gossip, however, argue that gossip can
hurt relationships and create a climate of fear and resentment, all of which feeds stress like humidity feeds a
storm.
And workplace stress, multiple studies show, causes problems ranging from a decline in productivity to a rise in
illness and absenteeism.
Whilst a natural instinct it can also be harmful—to morale, productivity, and careers.
Peggy Drexler, Ph.D. is a research psychologist, Assistant Professor of Psychology at Weill Medical College,
Cornell University

15. A- Team – Pulling together

16. Team Charter