At my job I am trying to take an extra moment to 'listen' instead of respond. Even though the classes were held at the work-site and designed explicitly to address needs in the context of work, for many participants, the first place they try out new skills is with the people they know the best. The first theme exhibited within the context of change among employee learners is that they communicate more effectively and openly with coworkers, supervisors, and customers. Employees are more willing to give me feedback due to their greater ability to communicate. Data collected from learners provides support for the supervisor on behavioral change to improve relationships.
Participants report using skills to build relationships both at home and in the workplace.
I let him know I like to socialize, but the majority of the time, I'm discussing schedule, projects, etc. I feel we both support each other as co-workers. This second theme of employee change relates to learners taking on more responsibility. Both supervisors and learners cite specific ways in which training is associated with greater initiative and involvement. For those who have participated, it has made a difference in their lives.