Resource Information for Classified Employees
Strictly Classified
An Informational Bulletin Published by the Personnel Commission
Contributing to a Healthy
Work Environment
Considering the amount of time each of us spends at work, maintaining a healthy work environment in which
employees feel respected and valued by their peers is essential to maintaining happy and productive lives outside of the office. Many of us are regularly faced with challenging situations, either due to a heavy workload,
a shortage of staff, or dealing with a diverse staff with varying personalities, skills, and abilities. These situations can lead to stress, frustration, and unhappiness at work. While supervisors and managers typically set the
tone for the office environment, staff members also play a crucial role is establishing a healthy work environment.
Communication is Key
When faced with a difficult situation, such as a lack of resources, a heavy workload, assignment of improper
duties or not enough support staff, effective communication is central to reaching a solution. Know the chain
of command in your office, and respectfully, clearly, and promptly communicate your concerns. Usually, supervisors and managers who are aware of problems will attempt to address them as expediently as is possible.
Additionally, talk to your coworkers. Maintaining open communication amongst your peers is essential to developing a sense of comradery. Developing positive relationships with coworkers will make work more enjoyable and will enable you to better handle difficult or stressful periods at work.
Develop a Positive Reputation
Employees who have a reputation as reliable, kind, honest, motivated workers who are willing to assist others
are more likely to have positive relationships with supervisors and peers at work. Furthermore, employees
who are team players, are appreciative of and get along well with others make better candidates for promotion
and will be able to call on others for help if assistance is needed.
Avoid Negative Behaviors
Negativity can be contagious. Employees who frequently complain about problems at work or gossip about
others will dampen the spirits of coworkers. We all face challenges at work and while we may feel the need to
vent from time to time, it generally more beneficial to determine what can be done to improve a situation.
MEMBERS OF THE PERSONNEL COMMISSION
James A. Srott, Chair
June 2007
David Iwata
Calvin W. Hall, Ed.D.
Karen Martin, Personnel Director
(213) 891-2333
If you have a problem with a coworker, talk to that person directly. If there has been a change in office practices that is causing you stress or difficulty, talk to a supervisor.
Simple Steps You Can Take
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Don’t wait for someone else to develop a solution to a problem, determine what you can do to make a
situation better. While some problems may be out of your hands, knowing that you are doing everything
within your ability to address a difficult situation will offer some satisfaction.
Look for new challenges in order avoid monotony. Talk to your supervisor about learning skills or obtaining a mentor. This will make you a better employee and open the door to promotional opportunities.
Maintain a sense of humor. Undoubtedly, you will encounter difficult situations at work, however try to
make the best of it.
Exceed expectations. Go above and beyond what is expected of you. This will give you a greater sense of
personal fulfillment, improve office operations, and earn you the respect of others.