heckpoint 3: Is there an accountability factor in the organization that supports teamwork and good communication skills?
The organization itself plays a critical role in defining appropriate and inappropriate behaviors in the workplace. Clearly, what gets reinforced is the behavior that gets exhibited. Specifically:
Are the desired conflict resolution skills (particularly around teamwork and communication) reflected as criteria in the performance review process?
Are there organizational core values? If so, are they reflected within the performance review process?
Are department or team norms identified and established around conflict resolution? If so, are they followed in a consistent manner?
Is peer input part of the performance review process? If not, would it make a difference?
Is the disciplinary process ever used for employees who exhibit poor communication and/or cooperation skills?
The performance review/management process must reflect the desired skill sets required for effective conflict resolution. Here I'm talking about teaming skills, communication and problem-solving, collaborative and listening skills, to name a few. If organizations fail to acknowledge and create accountability around these types of skills amongst their employees, then those same organizations are contradicting themselves when they say they want to create an environment that fosters effective communication and conflict resolution.