IMA UNION MAID

 

 

Dear Ima,

I am a new union steward. The shop floor where I work has it's share of stressors. It's fast paced, high production standards, understaffed, repetitive, monotonous and physically hard work. We work in extreme heat in the summer and can be chilled to the bone in winter. It's warehouse work. We face the typical range of supervisor styles from those who communicate well and appreciate the work we do to those who yell and scream "I'm the BOSS!"

 

There are times when members are frustrated, fed up and totally stressed out. They want help. By the time they come talk to me they are angry and emotionally charged and sometimes blaming the union. I know there's no magic wand that I could wave that could make everything better. I'm writing to find out if you have any advice on how I should communicate during these intense moments?

Sincerely,

I'm Listening


Dear I'm Listening,

What a great opportunity for building solidarity in your union being a steward is! It will be challenging at times but I think you'll find the rewards to be many. You're off to a good start already! Building on your communication skills will help you in your leadership role and build relationships with other members. I've learned that behavior is a form of communicating and when it comes to people sometimes we need to let out a little steam.

Assess the situation,

What’s going on? Is what you always have to be asking yourself.

What is this person’s motivation?

What is driving this person’s behavior?

Is this issue specifically about me or am I bearing the brunt of their bad day?

Do they need to just get this off their chest?

　

Providing that everyone is safe from physical danger, I think you'll find learning these universal principles in de-escalation a skill set that no stewards toolkit should be without.

 De-escalate Anyone,
Anywhere, Anytime:
Unplug the Power Struggle
with Principle-Based De-escalation

  Imagine dealing with any situation. Learn 5 surprises and 3 Guiding Principles, that will allow you to remain in control at all times, support anyone, anywhere, with any issue, and avoid the wrong response which can make the situation worse.

Is it really possible to de-escalate anyone, anywhere, anytime? Yes! Imagine yourself dealing with any scenario with anyone, anywhere, with confidence and long-term foresight. This is possible with a Principle-Based approach to de-escalation.

While no single technique will work on every person, there is a small set of principles that do apply to everyone. These principles are universal so they apply to any age person, any level of ability or disability, and any setting.


                      De-escalate Anyone, Anywhere, Anytime:
                                Unplug the Power Struggle

                                  Download the free 20 page eBook http://rightresponse.org/



　

You can make a difference "I'm Listening" because

Communication leads to understanding, mutual valuing and a community of unity!

Solidarity,


Ima Union Maid  

 

 

Dear Readers you can send in your own questions/comments to Ima at
 imaunionmaid@gmail.com