Building good relationships with your co-workers is just as important for your work and career success as doing your job well. Positive relationships at work can make you happier, more productive, and more adaptable. Here are some reasons why:
Job satisfaction: Meaningful relationships are the cornerstones of happiness. Having meaningful relationships with people you work with makes you feel valued and appreciated as part of the team. Good relations with co-workers contribute to a conducive work environment
Support structure: If you are on good terms with your co-workers, you immediately have a support structure at your disposal. Life is unpredictable and it eases pressure to know that should illness or another circumstance keep you away from the office or a crisis or surprise deadline presents itself, you’ve got backup. You will be able to better handle pressure because you have others that you can rely on.
Shared experience: Your family might be very understanding and supportive of your work or career, but no one understands your workplace’s pressures and special circumstances better than your co-workers. Moral support shared between co-workers lightens the weight and promotes teamwork
Building and maintaining better relationships with co-workers takes time and effort. Try some of these tips to help you along the way:
Develop and strengthen relationships Make time to connect with your co-workers. Whether it’s a quick chat over a cup of tea, a monthly meal, or sharing lunch at your desk, these moments show that you are interested and care. This helps them feel validated and strengthens your relationships with them.
Be positive A positive attitude is one of the most contagious things in the world. Positive and upbeat people attract others and lighten the mood in the office. Keep a positive outlook by highlighting the positives and avoiding complaints. Also cultivate relationships with others that have a similar attitude.
Avoid gossiping Discussing co-workers rarely leads to anything positive or has a good outcome; gossip leads only to distrust. Don’t start gossip, and if others gossip, try to change the subject or walk away. If you are involved in conflict with someone, sort it out with them directly and don’t discuss any aspect of the situation with anyone else.
Appreciate others Always express and show others that you appreciate their help and support. Be genuine in complimenting others on their successes, and share any learnings to help them with their blind spots.
Be a good listener An unknown author pointed out that ‘silent’ and ‘listen’ are spelt with the same letters. Truly listen to what others say or tell you. You will not only understand them and their situation better, but also gain their respect and trust.
Be the co-worker that you want to have.
For additional support and advice on building, maintaining and growing work relationships, or even working on communication techniques, our LifeAssist counsellors and coaches are here to assist.