Community life competence
Connecting local responses around the world
Realizing the strengths of Our Office Accountant
As the head of DHARA, an organization in Bangladesh, I had the opportunity to learn the principles of SALT in November 2023. During a meeting with my office staff to discuss SALT, I had a touching interaction with one of our team members, our office accountant.
She shared a story from her past when she was 17 years old. As the eldest daughter, she had managed her father's tea shop when he fell sick. The earning helped to get her father treated. I have worked with her for the past 12 years and knew her past but in this SALT conversation, I truly felt her emotions. Witnessing the joy and expression on her face, and the tears in her eyes as she recounted her story, deeply moved me. At that moment, our connection grew stronger, and we found solace in each other's presence, sharing a hug as I assured her of my support. A few weeks later, when she faced a health emergency within her family, I was there to offer my support. Likewise, she reciprocated this support in December when my son got married.
Reflecting on this experience as the leader of our organization, I experienced the value of SALT conversations as they build accountability to each other. Appreciation created a space for openness and vulnerability, enabling us to connect on a deeper level, going beyond the boundaries of professional roles. This has not only strengthened our bond but also had positive effects in our professional interaction. As the office accountant, she traditionally was strict with other staff members. Now her approach has become more empathetic and considerate. This shift in tone has contributed to a more positive and collaborative office environment.
She shared a story from her past when she was 17 years old. As the eldest daughter, she had managed her father's tea shop when he fell sick. The earning helped to get her father treated. I have worked with her for the past 12 years and knew her past but in this SALT conversation, I truly felt her emotions. Witnessing the joy and expression on her face, and the tears in her eyes as she recounted her story, deeply moved me. At that moment, our connection grew stronger, and we found solace in each other's presence, sharing a hug as I assured her of my support. A few weeks later, when she faced a health emergency within her family, I was there to offer my support. Likewise, she reciprocated this support in December when my son got married.
Reflecting on this experience as the leader of our organization, I experienced the value of SALT conversations as they build accountability to each other. Appreciation created a space for openness and vulnerability, enabling us to connect on a deeper level, going beyond the boundaries of professional roles. This has not only strengthened our bond but also had positive effects in our professional interaction. As the office accountant, she traditionally was strict with other staff members. Now her approach has become more empathetic and considerate. This shift in tone has contributed to a more positive and collaborative office environment.
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