How do you feel when working in a team and someone who isn't your superior gives you a suggestion or tip on how to do your job better? Do you react poorly, rejecting the advice? What if you're the one giving the advice? Do you feel slighted if the advice isn't accepted?
To understand what I mean by this, let's use the example of playing a sport. I like to play beach volleyball. I'm not a super expert, but I can get by at the game and can even play with some tough opponents.
If I'm playing with experts that are clearly better than me, they'll often give me suggestions on how to improve. I'm more than happy to hear those suggestions! I know by applying their advice, I'll improve my game.
 |
The frustrating part, however, for me is when I'm playing with players who are clearly not as good as I am, and aren't even all that interested in playing by the rules. This is fine, it's a fun game, no big deal. But if I decide to provide a tip or suggestion in this context, I often get flack, and they don't respect my advice the same way I respect the advice of those who are better than me.
Of course, there's a time and a place for everything, and maybe a casual game of volleyball isn't the best place to be 'giving tips'. People just want to relax and have fun!
But I can definitely see how this sort of thing can cause tension in a workplace between team members where no leadership role is involved.
My basic advice is: If a team member who's your equal is giving you advice, take it seriously and accept the suggestion humbly and consider making use of it. That person might have a little more experience and expertise and the tip might even help you do your job better.
Now on to this week's hand-picked productivity links!
