Cancer and Business: Acting Together You’re part of the professional circle. How do you take the news of an employee or colleague falling ill? The announcement of a colleague’s illness can cause strong emotions, depending on a person’s nature. This can be a difficult time for both the person making the announcement and the person being told, which can lead to inappropriate reactions that may cause a misunderstanding. Listening to your colleague and being there for them will help them talk about it in complete confidence. The core values: – Being considerate – Reassuring – Providing support – Showing empathy The right words: – Is there anything I can do for you? – Have you already spoken to other people in the company about it? – I don’t know what to say but I’m here for you. – There are people in the company who can help you. – Do you need any help making the announcement? The right attitudes: – Making yourself available – Adopting an attitude that promotes dialogue and trust – Taking the news and accepting your own emotions – Respecting confidentiality – Being professional by not asking about the illness or intimate matters Things managers and HR should watch out for: It is important to monitor the reactions of the work group when the announcement is made in order to act appropriately and at the right time. With new treatment methods and the possibility of early detection, more and more employees are combining treatment with their professional activity. This means that we should be alert and attentive to their needs at all times during this treatment period. 7