Making your voice heard

...in your workplace

Making your voice heard in the workplace can be very difficult. After all, a power situation is present, with economic livelihood at stake. However, employers and employees both benefit if good communication is present.

Regular staff meetings

At their best, these are extremely important events to exchange information and concerns; at their worst, they can be one-sided and intimidating. Women@Work regularly offers workshops on many of the skills needed to be effective in meetings, such as presenting yourself, recognising power at work and negotiation skills.

During staff appraisals

You should have regular staff appraisals. This is the opportunity for an employer to take stock and suggest improvements and ways forward – and it is the opportunity for employees to do the same. It should not be confrontational, but a dialogue, identifying problems and seeking solutions.

Via Noticeboards or newsletters

If you have a noticeboard or company newsletter, make use of it! Some of the statistics on this website can be a real eye-catcher!

Via the Union

A union represents its members to management, and can be a key way to make your voice heard, particular where employers do not listen well! The union will also have staff who provide current up-to-date information on employment legislation or other matters in the workplace. And they can provide help if a dispute arises. The Scottish Trades Union Congress provides information about unions in Scotland.