Here are some reminders of how to keep communication with coworkers positive:

• Respect people’s differences – Each of us approaches life, and work, differently and we need to respect those differences.
• Think, and speak, positively – Your positive attitude will catch on.
• Acknowledge your coworkers – Greet coworkers with a smile, respond nicely to emails and phone calls and talk casually on a regular basis.
• Always listen to your co-workers when they are speaking to you, or find a time when you can listen properly. The time invested will be worth the understanding you acquire.
• Show your co-workers that you appreciate their contribution on a regular basis - Go out of your way to comment on a “job well done” or even just a “job done”.
• Pitch in – Go beyond your job description the odd time and give someone else a hand without being asked.
• Do your job – Always do what is expected of you and never expect your co-workers to do your duties.
• Do not jump to conclusions about others – Do not repeat gossip, distort facts about others or assume you know what others’ intentions are. Keep communication real.
• Respect people’s priorities – People have different styles of working and some workers need time without interruption to do their work. Respect their time management by not interrupting and communicating timelines and expectations clearly.
• Use positive body language when listening to others – Do not resort to rolling eyes, clasped arms or raised eyebrows while others are speaking to you.
• Be open to new ideas – Change can be stressful.  A feeling that “we are all in this together” can make change easier to swallow.
• Admit mistakes – Trust that no one makes mistakes on purpose. Apologize if you need to, help others correct their mistakes. and move on.
• Keep your cool – Strong language, raised voices and dramatic sounds of frustration are not appropriate at work. Take the time to sit down and work things out with co-workers if you have a difference of opinion.
• Delegate to your co-workers – Don’t give people the impression that the work is better if “you do it yourself”. No one likes a martyr. Trust your co-workers to get the job done.
• Do not talk down to your co-workers – An environment of trust can only be developed in a non-judgmental atmosphere. Feel free to talk appropriately and let your co-workers feel free to ask for clarification if they need it.
• Share feelings of excitement, anticipation, frustration and pride - Sharing feelings openly can lead to a better understanding between people and a greater enjoyment of the work.
• Have a sense of humor – Humor can create a bond between people and relieve stress. So go ahead and tell that funny story at an appropriate moment.