PREFACE: Urgent call for linguistic artists

The idea arose during lunch break. A few colleagues who knew each other well started talking about a tough subject during a regular conversation. It started with a tentative description of some symptoms in women that arise from a certain age, but also sometimes have a painful impact at work. The tricky word was out: menopause.

The open conversation in the canteen resulted in the interview with Elke Haccour in this edition. Her story isn’t evident. Yet, according to professor Peggy De Prins, recognising dark sides in the workplace is more than necessary to put the work reality in the right perspective. After all, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.

By understanding these dark sides, we create a language that allows us to get closer to a real phenomenon. Language helps executives create a conceptual framework to engage in dialogue. We need more ‘language’ to credibly name issues and challenges in the workplace. Without being brutal, without being polarising. Clear and concrete.

Language has the power to polarise. But it also has the power to connect. Language can create conflict, but can also create dialogue. Language can disguise, but can also give insight. Language can divide, but can also identify common interests. In an age with delicate, tough and challenging issues, a connecting, clear language that gives perspective is much needed. This type of language is the basis for participation and consultation in companies and organisations.

There are many challenges to be discussed in social dialogue. Companies are challenged by the climate transition. The productivity discourse from which we derive prosperity is under pressure. Ever more knowledge workers are putting limits on their working hours. Employees are questioning their complex tiered remuneration through cafeteria plans and performance pay. Artificial intelligence threatens to erase creative and cognitive jobs.

We need more employee representatives who understand and master the added value of connecting and dialoguing language. I know quite a few. But there is room for more. The 2024 social elections make this question more urgent than ever.

Do you speak the language of connection and dialogue? Do have any ideas on how to make things better? Let us know at kader@acv-csc.be or take a look at hetacv.be/sociale-verkiezingen.

Never Work Alone 2024 | Auteur: Sandra Vercammen | Foto: Dries Luyten