Part IV
The Non-Discriminating Employer
Five strategies for harmonious working relationships
Live your values: The single most important thing you can do to prevent bad behaviour is to model good behaviour. Respect, honesty, politeness, empathy and diligence aren’t just words on a mission statement. When you live those values, you can expect others to do so as well.
Understand the underlying causes of conflict: Treat the cause and not the symptoms of conflict to help resolve problems affecting the harmony in your business. Personality clashes, inequitable treatment, unfulfilled expectations, bad behaviour and competition for attention can contribute to conflict between staff.
Keep in mind it’s not always what you say but what you do: Speaking about personal differences, disabilities and personal characteristics isn’t discrimination when it shows an interest in the person, is done respectfully and relates to the work that staff are expected to perform. Prejudicing a person’s employment because of personal attributes is usually unlawful — and just wrong.
Don’t be afraid to give someone ...
