Fostering Positive Communication: A Letter to Our Team

Dear Team,

As coworkers, you play a key role in shaping a culture where trust, respect, and collaboration thrive. Recent team feedback from grievance forms has highlighted a common theme: the need for more constructive and positive communication. This insight presents an important opportunity for growth. Let’s use it as a catalyst to foster an environment where conversations uplift, encourage, and strengthen connections.

Why Positive & Assertive Communication Matters

✔️ Empowers teams to tackle challenges together with mutual respect.
✔️ Deepens trust and strengthens connections between team members, reducing misunderstandings and gossip.
✔️ Builds morale by focusing on solutions and shared goals. Positive, solution-focused, and assertive communication enables us to address concerns directly while ensuring mutual respect and collaboration. It leaves no room for misunderstandings or negativity, creating a space for growth.

Address Gossip and Negative Behavior in the Moment

Let’s prioritize open, assertive, and solution-focused conversations. Here’s how:

1. Interrupt Gossip:

When gossip arises, step in. Remind the team that addressing concerns directly and constructively is more productive than unproductive chatter.

2. Redirect Conversations:

Shift discussions from frustrations or complaints to solutions, ideas, and actionable steps.

3. Set Boundaries:

Create a verbal agreement of expectations for behavior. Address negative behavior immediately and reinforce a standard of respect and direct communication.

The Impact of Positive Leadership

✔️ Uplifts the team’s mindset by focusing on what’s possible.
✔️ Enhances your reputation as a trusted, approachable coworker.
✔️ Strengthens collaboration by promoting trust and mutual respect.

4 Ways to Foster a Positive Culture

1. Redirect conversations toward growth
   • Focus on solutions, shared goals, and collaboration when tensions or frustrations arise.
2. Lead with empathy
   • Show understanding and provide support while addressing concerns.
3. Model respect and kindness
   • Let your actions set the tone for your team. Respectful teamwork encourages the same behavior in others.
4. Encourage open, direct communication
   • Create a safe space for team members to share thoughts constructively rather than through unproductive channels.

Moving Forward Together

Your teamwork is critical in transforming this feedback into meaningful change. By addressing gossip directly, modeling positive communication, and leading with integrity, you inspire your team to do the same. Let’s work together to make Violet Crown Veterinary Specialists a place where every voice feels valued, respected, and heard. Thank you for your continued dedication to fostering a positive and collaborative environment!

Cheers, 

Lenore Harrison CVPM, CVBL, CCFP