Enough with the S t u f f (Something That U Find Frustrating)

Dealing with Workplace "stuff": Something that u find frustrating. In the workplace, it's only a matter of time before we misstep, mis-communicate, misunderstand, or inadvertently denigrate someone else's culture, values, traditions, customs, religion, or feelings. Many employees are offended by compliments on their appearance; by water-cooler conversations about religion, politics, or sexual orientation; by an unwelcome touch on the shoulder, arm, or back; or by any cultural transgression-intentional or not. Even some of the smallest infractions can create anxiety or anger among coworkers. While most of these issues are framed as harassment or discrimination, most likely they are the result of a miscommunication potentially grounded in cultural differences. We spend 40+ hours a week with our coworkers, but these professional relationships suffer when we are unable to talk to one another or give each other permission to make mistakes-which is the only way to gain a better understanding of cultural differences. This type of understanding doesn't come from the company's EEO or diversity leader, and it doesn't come from the organization's code of conduct or human resources. In order to bridge this diversity divide, we must begin to communicate with one another. stuff offers practical strategies for dealing with "stuff"-the things we find frustrating-and gives organizational professionals permission to fondly reach for the term "stuff" when identifying and addressing employee conflict, rather than mislabeling the offending behaviors as harassment and discrimination. This fun, easy-to-follow guide is a must for any professional who hopes to champion civility, non-discrimination, equity, and justice in the workplace.