A positive working attitude can make a world of difference of how you and others feel being employed at a particular company, so it is a matter of great concern. A few simple guidelines can really help.

Try to use positive language: No matter how long you’ve been with a company and how comfortable you may be around your colleagues, you should never use profanity. If it slips out in a high-stress situation, people will let it slide, but you cannot swear on a regular basis. This is a professional environment, and the use of profanity immediately ignites a negative aura into its surroundings.

Never Criticize Anyone: There is a difference between criticism and constructive feedback. Always use the method where you begin by complimenting the individual on something they’ve done well, and follow it up with a suggestion on how to improve their performance. The individual will respect your feedback, and also respect the fact that you brought awareness to the situation in a professional manner.

Stay Away From Gossip: Nothing eats away at a teamwork environment worse than gossip. Whether team members are gossiping about colleagues or their personal problems, avoid the situation altogether. Maintaining a positive attitude at work means that you are a team player who provides all team members with respect. By refraining from joining a gossip circle, you can ensure that you maintain that level of respect.

Put Teamwork First: When a team member has performed well, let them know. Offering pats on the back and compliments on a job well done are two simple and easy ways to foster a positive teamwork environment. In the same regard, when the team is faced with an obstacle, be sure to offer solutions and next steps rather than focusing on the negatives. Approach each obstacle with a "glass half full" mentality and you will create a positive outlook that will catch on to the rest of the team.

Don’t Complain: Every day is not a good day – but don’t let everyone on the team know that. You may have been stuck in standstill traffic that morning, or experienced a 45-minute delay on your train ride, but you can’t let those variables affect your work. Laughing at your unfortunate circumstances will keep the work environment positive, whereas ranting will add negativity and diminish the upbeat working tone.

Best Regards
Andrzej Wojtas (Ph.D.), Chief Editor of MFN, E-mail: andrzej@mfn.li

Author: Andrzej Wojtas