. What communication characteristics make someone a good friend? Compare and contrast an academic understanding of friendship communication and scriptural understanding of friendship communication. Are there similar topics or virtues addressed in both? Explain.
- What are unique challenges that you might face in developing a workplace romance or friendship? What are some important pieces of advice you might give someone wanting to develop a workplace romance or friendship based on your class readings/research?
Full Answer Section
- Forgiveness:True friends forgive each other's shortcomings, as emphasized in Matthew 6:14-15.
- Encouragement:Friends uplift and inspire each other, like Priscilla and Aquila encouraging Apollos in Acts 18:26.
- Accountability:Friends can gently hold each other accountable for their actions, as seen in Proverbs 27:5-6.
Similarities:
Both perspectives emphasize virtues like honesty, respect, support, and forgiveness. Both acknowledge the importance of good communication in building strong friendships.
Differences:
- Focus:Academic communication focuses on practical skills, while scripture emphasizes faith-based virtues.
- Source of Strength:Academic understanding emphasizes personal growth and emotional support, while scripture emphasizes God's love as the foundation of friendship.
Workplace Relationships: Challenges and Advice
Challenges:
- Professional Boundaries:Blurring lines between friendship and professionalism can be tricky.
- Confidentiality:Workplace information needs to be protected, and confidentiality can be compromised in friendships.
- Favoritism:Perceptions of favoritism towards friends can arise.
- Power Dynamics:Unequal power structures can create an imbalance in friendships.
- Breakup:If the relationship ends badly, it can create tension in the workplace.
Advice:
- Proceed with Caution:Consider the potential consequences before pursuing a workplace romance or friendship.
- Maintain Professionalism:Keep work relationships professional, even with friends.
- Clear Boundaries:Set and maintain clear boundaries between friendship and professional interactions.
- Transparency:Be transparent with colleagues and supervisors about the nature of the relationship.
- Avoid Conflict of Interest:Be mindful of any potential conflicts of interest and avoid them.
- Separate Personal and Professional Lives:As much as possible, keep personal matters separate from work.
By understanding these challenges and following this advice, individuals can navigate workplace relationships more effectively.