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Participate in the work environment

Self check

The optional self check tests your understanding of the topics covered in this section.

  1. What are the main considerations in working co-operatively with others?



  • Answer – To work effectively with others, it is important that you:

    • communicate openly, honestly and at appropriate times
    • be flexible in your approach
    • be open to new ideas
    • demonstrate acceptance of the values, beliefs and opinions of others
    • be willing to contribute and fully participate in moving towards group goals
    • use problem-solving skills
    • recognise the unique skills and abilities of others
    • acknowledge the contribution of others to group goals
    • maintain he consistent approach agreed upon by your team, to uphold service standards.

  1. What are the roles and responsibilities of each member of the work group?



  • Answer – The responsibilities include:

    • developing the team leader’s confidence in your ability to work as a group member
    • informing others of your intentions and actions
    • discussing possible changes to plans
    • discussing alternatives to previously agreed plans, where necessary
    • drawing on combined team experience
    • contributing to problem solving
    • contributing your own skills and knowledge wherever possible
    • valuing the contributions of others
    • working in a manner consistent with team goals
    • ensuring personal goals do not impede attainment of group goals.

  1. Why is it important to respect individual differences including cultural differences?



  • Answer – If you respect individual differences, you can agree to disagree and work together towards a solution, on the understanding that all contributions to the group will be valued.

  1. How do you value cultural differences in your work?



  • Answer – Examples of valuing cultural differences include:

    • asking for the views of others
    • having a willingness to listen
    • having a willingness to be accepting and non-judgemental of the views of others
    • having willingness to compromise.

  1. What are examples of co-operative behaviour in the workplace?



  • Answer – Examples of cooperative behaviour include:

    • showing verbal and non-verbal respect and consideration
    • listening to others
    • acknowledging your understanding of what others have said
    • considering the needs of others before acting and speaking
    • consulting with relevant others before taking action
    • sharing relevant information, materials and equipment
    • negotiating with others to ensure that all set tasks are completed within time limits.

  1. What are examples of behaviour unlikely to promote co-operation?



  • Answer – Examples of behaviour that is unlikely to promote cooperation includes:

    • not sharing information
    • not contributing ideas
    • working independently or in isolation
    • being unwilling to listen to others
    • being unwilling to accept the opinions of others
    • completing tasks in ways that do not complement the work of others.

  1. What types of information need to be shared with others in the work group?



  • Answer – Information may include:

    • your current activities, particularly those that relate to others within the team
    • relevant incidents and achievements by clients
    • feedback that could assist the group or organisation to improve quality of service
    • any training or support needs for yourself that you may be aware of
    • any concerns or queries you may have
    • changes to previously agreed actions
    • any information you may have which could facilitate working towards the group’s goals.

  1. How might information be shared with the work group?



  • Answer – Methods of sharing information may include phone conversations, formal and informal meetings, memos, reports and emails.

  1. Where is problem solving likely to be required in completing work requirements?



  • Answer – You will need problem solving to manage your time and resources effectively, and for helping clients and their families identify and meet their individual needs.

  1. What are the options for dealing with conflict in the workplace?



  • Answer – You need to negotiate a solution which all parties are happy with. Using shared decision making processes which include team members in decisions will help avoid conflict. Regular staff meetings make a good forum for this to happen, and provides an opportunity for staff members to discuss achievements, problems and issues.

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