Although you might not know it, building healthy relationships is essential if you want to achieve a successful career. Since good vibes spread around pretty quickly, being able to gain friends in the workplace can also mean positive results to the company's performance. Here are five ways to be a delight in the workplace by building relationships with colleagues, as written by Belen Chacon of careerialism.
1. Be honest and communicate
"When it comes to building relationships with your co-workers, be open and honest. Some people see work as a place to show up, do what they are supposed to do, and go home, others see it as a place to spend half of their waking life and an opportunity to build social relationships," says Cecilia Harry, career coach and author of "10 Ways to Improve Your Relationships with Your Boss (Or Anyone)".
2. Be likable
"Even if they don't want to engage and build a friendly or social relationship, you may end up excluding them or devaluing them, and that ends up creating a negative relationship and possibly hurting the company. Instead, be sure to keep them in the communication loop and still offer assistance and support to work-related tasks," Harry states.
3. Be observant
"I encourage individuals to take a look at the company's culture and use that as one of the factors to inform their decision regarding if and how to engage co-workers outside of regular work activities," Harry advises.
4. Find a common interest
"Another way to make this a little easier is to focus on an interest you both have in common. Perhaps you both own dogs, went to the same college, watch the same TV show, or have a grandchild in t-ball. This common interest can be a good foundation for a positive relationship," Harry says.
5. Don't be afraid to aim (may it be higher or lower)
"Mentor relationships in the workplace benefit both parties," said Harry, "and the company gains when more employees are engaged and supporting each other."
