“He doesn’t even say hello to me anymore.” “She doesn’t listen to my opinion.” “Whatever I do, it’s not enough.”

I often hear these kinds of emotionally charged complaints, with people feeling that their very identity is at stake. Hence the idea for this article on three life skills that enable individuals to interact effectively and harmoniously with others.

- Politeness, first and foremost, is vital both when being introduced to strangers and in our daily interactions with colleagues.

Politeness may seem outdated in this era of instant communication. But when it is lacking, when simple acts like smiling and saying “hello”, “thank you” and “bye” fall by the wayside, we feel its absence. Politeness plays a crucial role in interpersonal communication and relations, helping to create a climate of trust and respect.

- Respect “changes your life”, as we were reminded by the slogan of the Geneva-based campaign that was picked up by CERN in 2010.

When two people respect each other, they:

• are polite to each other;
• accept that they are different but interact as equals;
• speak to each other openly and honestly.

Respect is essential in all human interactions, whether personal or professional. To that end, also in 2010, CERN established a Code of Conduct – a practical guide to help us understand how to behave, how to treat others and how to expect to be treated, in accordance with CERN values.

- Gratitude, lastly, is an act of recognition and appreciation towards others for considerate behaviour, support or help. It may also extend to appreciation for experiences, happy moments or things happening in our lives.

Our social life has a major impact on our well-being and our mental health. Being polite, showing respect, demanding respect where necessary and thanking those who stand by us are all ways to improve our daily lives by positively influencing our relationships in the workplace and beyond.

If you would like to talk more about this subject or its implications in a particular situation, please come and see me. As Ombud, my main purpose is to provide a non-official channel for conflict resolution, as well as to offer my opinion on the implementation of the Code of Conduct.

Thank you for your attention, and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Marie-Luce Falipou

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I would like to hear your reactions and suggestions – join the CERN Ombud Mattermost team at https://mattermost.web.cern.ch/cern-ombud/.

The Ombud is available from Monday to Friday in office B500/1-004 on the Meyrin site. To make an appointment, in person or online, contact the Ombud at ombuds@cern.ch.

More information can be found on the Ombud’s website: https://ombuds.web.cern.ch