Please respond discussion below with sources:
McShane and Von Glinow (2021) define organizational culture as the shared values and beliefs within an organization – an unseen force that shapes workplace behaviors and determines priorities (p. 509). Reflecting on my time with the Navy Seabees, this definition feels especially relevant. McShane & Von Glinow identify four primary elements when analyzing culture, a) artifacts, b) legends/stories, c) rituals/ceremonies, and d) language. Applying these to my time in service: Artifacts like uniforms, medals, and insignias represented affiliation, service accomplishments, and rank. Whereas at my previous unit, we tasked junior tradespeople with reviving an old wooden display symbolizing the unit’s storied past. This restored artifact was proudly placed in front of the unit’s executive office suite, serving as a testament to our enduring legacy.
Discuss the benefits of emotional intelligence and mindfulness training for employees in the workplace.
Understanding and managing our emotions is vital for both personal and professional success. McShane and Von Glinow (2021) term this concept as “emotional intelligence” (EI) (p. 132). EI includes four pillars: understanding our feelings (self-awareness), managing these emotions (self-management), recognizing others’ feelings (social awareness), and effectively interacting with them (relationship management). Similarly, “mindfulness” helps us focus on the present moment while observing our thoughts and feelings (p. 63). The key benefits of honing these skills through training are twofold: creating a more positive work environment and enhancing productivity. For example, as a facilities project manager, applying EI helps me navigate team stress during tight deadlines, while mindfulness assists me in making better decisions under pressure. This therefore demonstrating how EI and mindfulness training can benefit the workplace.
2. What benefits do you believe emotional intelligence and mindfulness training would have had on the culture described? Why?
In 2014, I participated in Navy medicine’s pilot program called “Mind Body Medicine.” The program used an integrative approach, incorporating a variety of educational activities and skill-building experiences like yoga, meditation, among other mind-body awareness activities to build resiliency through stress management (Navy Medical Center San Diego, n.d.). Based on my positive personal experience, I was able to significantly improve my interpersonal relationships, enhance leadership abilities, and contribute to a more cohesive workforce. I believe incorporating similar emotional intelligence and mindfulness training on a broader scale across the Navy, or any organization, would be highly beneficial while positively impacting organizational culture and mission effectiveness.
3. What exercises would be included in an emotional intelligence and mindfulness training program?
An effective emotional intelligence and mindfulness training program would need to start with some self-assessment activity, such as online quizzes, to gauge current levels of emotional intelligence and mindfulness among participants. The program could then include journaling exercises that encourage self-reflection, helping individuals become more aware of their emotions and thought patterns. Next, role-playing/simulation sessions could be incorporated to enhance social awareness and relationship management skills. These exercises would help the employees practice effective responses to challenging situations they encounter throughout the day. Bringing in a certified instructor to practice mindfulness techniques through guided meditation and breathing exercises should also be included to help develop focus and stress management abilities. Through these collective exercises, the program would effectively develop a holistic understanding of mindfulness and EI.
4. How should the training program be implemented?
The program should be rolled out in phases to ensure that it aligns with the company’s operational needs, thereby striking a balance between productivity and organizational development. I would propose an initial pilot phase with small groups of employees from various departments. This allowing an opportunity to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments prior to implementing across the firm. Each phase should be accompanied by pre- and post-assessments to evaluate effectiveness while also considering employee feedback. By implementing the program iteratively and making data-driven adjustments, the organization can nurture a culture of emotional intelligence and mindfulness without compromising operational efficiency.
References:
McShane, S. L., & Von Glinow, M. A. Y. (2021). Organizational behavior: Emerging knowledge, global reality (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
Navy Medical Center San Diego. (n.d.). Health Education and Disease Prevention: Mind-Body Medicine Program. Retrieved from: https://sandiego.tricare.mil/Health-Services/Preventive-Care/Health-and-Wellness/Health-Education-and-Disease-Prevention/Mind-Body-Medicine-Program
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