Page 20 Aboriginal Cultural Competence This could avert feelings of being trapped and may help to alleviate tension caused by unfamiliarity. Aboriginal people are not always comfortable within an office environment. It is common for clients’ family members to attend scheduled appointments. If it is at all possible, use a larger meeting room. A good idea is to have colour-in books (or scrap paper) and colour pencils available. You could also put children’s drawings on display. This proves to be a great icebreaker when meeting new people. Consider allowing people to be seated facing the door If appropriate, play music in your office. Music is a common conversational topic. You can use it as an ice breaker to assist in breaking down communicational barriers. Keep a harmonious atmosphere in your office Aboriginal people are often very patriotic about Aboriginal colours. The colours facilitate a sense of belonging, kinship and pride. Organisations could have the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags represented in your office. Paintings and other art are helpful too. If you have an Aboriginal painting or other art make sure you find out who the artist is, and the story behind the painting, this is great as an ice breaker. Visually comforting objects for your office Try not to sit face to face across a desk with people. Where possible, position your furniture so that you can sit to the side of your desk when talking with people. This is more comforting and sets up an environment for yarning or relaxed conversation and helps to create an atmosphere that is not so tense and rigid. Sitting face to face across a desk can be uncomfortable to many Aboriginal people (and indeed many non-Aboriginal people). Shift yourself to the side of your desk
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