Relationships at Work

Overview:

This course will introduce the concept of the 'drama triangle' as a framework to guide reflections on our own behaviour and that of others, particularly when at work. During the day there will a chance to look at particular situations that the participants dread or wish they could have managed more effectively.

Patterns of exchanges can become profoundly negative for all involved when they take place in the "Drama Triangle" between 'victim', 'persecutor' and 'rescuer'. For good working relationships we need to be outside the drama: to be 'on the level'.

Aims & Objectives:

Aims & Objectives:

On completion of this course, delegates will be able to:

  • Describe the concept of the drama triangle and the role of 'leveller'.
  • State the characteristics of four different kinds of behaviours
  • List the possible reasons for playing the roles in the drama triangle
  • Describe a variety of methods for communicating outside of the drama triangle
  • State the benefits of remaining outside the drama triangle
  • Give specific and constructive feedback to colleagues
  • Summarise their key personal learning points
  • Set themselves an achievable goal in relation to improving relationships in their workplace

The main outcome will be improved interpersonal behaviour at work, particularly important for employees working as part of a team or face to face with the public.

Course Outline:

  • Introduction: this is not about types of people but about types of behaviour - we behave differently with certain people or in certain situations
  • Agree ground rules about confidentiality etc
  • Individual reflection and goal setting: what do you want to get out of this day?
  • Multiple choice humorous quiz to draw distinctions between types of behaviour & get discussion going
  • Presentation about the drama triangle concept and its roots in transactional analysis.
  • Small group exercise to discuss and sort out descriptive statements into victim, persecutor, rescuer types of behaviour.
  • Presentation about what it means to be on the 'level', i.e. outside the triangle
  • Individuals to make notes about situations they face where the relationship is difficult. Then some self analysis about what drama triangle roles are being played out by themselves and the other party. Reflection in pairs, group discussion.
  • Ask for volunteers to share & use one of these to demonstrate role play with the whole group. We may do a couple of examples before I feel the group is ready to work in smaller groups. There is a lot of value in observing and giving feedback - this in itself entails learning 'drama free' or assertive behaviour. Likewise to experience the difference when someone responds to you 'on the level' is enlightening.
  • Set up role play in groups of 3: one observer who gives feedback, one who 'acts' as the person posing the challenge, the other who tries to respond using each type of behaviour. A detailed handout will be provided to guide this exercise.
  • Discussion to reflect on learning
  • Set your own achievable goal and write it down for your own future reference
  • Initial self -assessment
  • Interactive Exercises
  • Individual or Group Exercises
  • Discussion
  • Visual Aids e.g. flip charts, posters, hand outs
  • Role play and feedback Activity
  • Final self assessment
  • 'I really enjoyed the group work - it made me realise that we see things in different ways which explains a lot!'
  • 'Lots of food for thought - I now realise that rescuing people is something I do a lot'
  • 'The tutor was calm and non-judgemental which creates a positive atmosphere for everyone'

Intended For:

The day will benefit anyone who has to work as part of a team or deal with customers/clients/general public. Managers will gain insight into their own communication styles as well as a better understanding of their colleagues.