Managing your wellbeing in the workplace
Working in a pharmacy setting can be stressful. This page provides useful guidance and advice on looking after your wellbeing in the workplace.
Have your voice heard in the right way
What is your communication style?
A common problem in the workplace can be miscommunication… have you ever relayed instructions or information to a coworker but somehow got your wires crossed? What’s more, your colleague now seems unhappy and you’re not sure why. Learning to identify different communication styles can improve team work and have a positive influence on your workplace culture.
Discover different communication styles in this handy download
Do you know how to say no?
Being able to say no, or even yes, respectfully… having the confidence to calmly express ideas, beliefs, concerns and opinions… valuing yourself and your time as equal to other people and their time… in short, being assertive, is fundamental to our wellbeing. Those who are assertive tend to have: higher self-esteem because they’re confident communicators, lower stress levels because they’re not taking on too many responsibilities, and healthier relationships which are based on mutual respect.
Not everyone is naturally assertive or feels comfortable being assertive. However, we can learn and develop this skill.
How can you be more assertive?
Above all, it’s important to remind yourself that being assertive in a good way isn’t rude or selfish. It’s an effective and diplomatic communication style. It helps to manage expectations and use your valuable time in the most productive way. It can also help you to express your thoughts and feelings without emotions or conflict getting in the way. According to research, the assertive style of communication is typically the most respectful and productive type of communication in the workplace.
Being assertive isn’t just the words you choose to say, but also how you choose to say them. Good assertive communication is clear, honest and respectful. Open and warm body language is essential. Using “I” statements rather than “you” statements such as “I don’t agree” rather than “you’re wrong”, will help you sound less accusatory and more confident in your beliefs. If the thought of being assertive fills you with fear, you may also want to rehearse different scenarios out loud or with someone you trust. Small steps in the beginning will have a big return in the long run.
The short self-study module below covers the fundamentals of building assertiveness. Once you have completed it, you may want to move onto the second part.
Move onto part two of Building Assertiveness
Building Assertiveness:
Learning to say no
