Maintaining healthy
interpersonal relationships 
in the workplace creates an environment where employees can build relationships with equal respect for each other, build confidence, and increase productivity.
Key points for healthy interpersonal relationships include:
Respect individual diversity . People are going to have different personalities, learning styles, values, opinions, and ways of communicating, so you need to find ways to work with people that are different from you. In other words, it is okay to agree to disagree, but do not let it affect the work environment.
Respond to praise or criticism. Keep a positive attitude , listen to and think about the praise/criticism, and learn from the experience. Listen to the other person's viewpoint . Do not be overly sensitive when taking criticism. Click here 
for advice on when it is okay to be offended and when it is not.
Offer helpful praise or criticism. It can be difficult to approach a co-worker who is consistently making mistakes. If done right, offering helpful criticism may earn you more respect. Click here for advice on how to approach co-workers.
Control emotional reactions. Everyone can be emotional from time to time. Try to be aware of the emotions of others around you. Be aware of your own emotions as well. The ability to perceive emotions is considered Emotional Intelligence (EI). Click here to learn more about EI and how to exercise it. Often, emotional reactions are a result of stress. Click here to learn how to better manage your stress.
Resolve conflict by:
- Identifying the problem – State the needs of the people involved in the conflict. Communicate the problem without placing blame on either party.
- Active Listening – Give the other person a chance to speak their viewpoint without interrupting or making them feel threatened. Communication skills are essential for resolving conflict as well as preventing conflict. Click here to learn how to improve your communication skills at work.
- Discuss possible solutions – Talk about possible solutions and know when it is right to agree to disagree. Click here for more tools about preparing to have difficult discussions through role playing.
- Act upon the agreed solution – Put the past behind you. Have a positive attitude, and focus having a good working relationship.
- Display a positive attitude.
Identify and react to sexual intimidation/harassment appropriately. Learn more about sexual harassment; visit the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission website .
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