Chit-chat eases office tensions

  • Published
  • By Airman First Class Marissa Tucker
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  Laughter has an amazing affect on the human spirit. It can allow a hint of happiness to slip into a moment where one feels otherwise.

In a career involving sensitive topics and situations on a daily basis, one must have a sense of humor, said Senior Master Sgt. Danny Wells, 4th Fighter Wing Equal Opportunity office deputy director.

"You have to be able to laugh things off sometimes," he said. "If you let everything get you down, it tends to burn you out. In EO, we deal with a lot of complex issues, so not many things would surprise us."

The wing EO office consists of a "super crew" of sorts, with a staff ranging from former supply Airmen to well experienced civilians who have a real passion for the job. Their eclectic knowledge and work ethic provide an outlet for servicemembers and civilians when they are having trouble or problems with others in the workplace.

"The best way to solve a problem in any situation is from the lowest level," said Sergeant Wells, who has been in the career field for 13 years. "Talking to the person you are having the problem with is the first step to solving it, but sometimes, individuals need assistance, and that's where we step in."

Resolving conflicts between co-workers is just one of the main services equal opportunity has to offer, which is what attracted Staff Sgt. Jennifer Holmes to the field.

"I love everything about equal opportunity," Sergeant Holmes said. "It's one of the few jobs where your entire day consists of helping people and assisting in the resolution process of unique concerns. I couldn't ask for a better job."

For Sergeant Wells, the job just seemed like a perfect fit. As a guy with a quiet confidence, he said he's always been a "people person." From the knowledge gained in his 20-year career, he brings a great deal of expertise to the job.

"I have learned throughout the span of my EO career that the underlying cause of most of the problems in the workplace is ineffective communication," he said. "With any relationship, business or personal, the lines of communication have to flow, or there will be problems." 

Although she doesn't get easily offended, Sergeant Holmes has seen many people who were afraid they would face isolation or mocking if they spoke out about being affronted by a comment. The EO office is the avenue for those who need assistance with resolving concerns that may lead to discrimination.

"Some Airman are intimidated by conflict," Sergeant Holmes said. "They are afraid to be the person who confronts unprofessional behavior head -on. Many people shy away from confrontation, but sometimes it is necessary for resolution."

It can be intimidating to tell someone that you did not like something he said or did, Sergeant Holmes said.

"While one person may laugh something off, another may be offended and people must be cautious of that in the work place," she said. "No one should go to work and feel uncomfortable."

The EO office offers sensitivity training not only to individuals but also to entire units or squadrons. The EO staff can develop programs unique to a specific unit and present workshops to help ease or prevent workplace tensions. They also conduct random site checks on various units across the base.

"We have many activities for servicemembers and their families and co-workers," Sergeant Wells said. "We work with all the helping agencies around the base including mental health and family advocacy, so we can do referrals when needed."

With a helpful staff, the wing can look forward to more innovative programs and activities from the EO office. While they are always available for servicememebers or civilians having issues at work, they encourage both to have a discussion about the problem before coming to them.

"Being able to communicate concerns to someone is the key to resolving many issues we have seen," Sergeant Holmes said. "If someone confronts you about an issue, be open and listen to what they have to say. If you feel offended, don't be afraid to speak up. If you are unable to get resolution through your chain of command, call us, that's what we're here for."

Anyone needing equal opportunity or human relations assistance may call the EO office at 722-1183.