5 Tips To Get Your Coworkers To Like You More

 Your environment can really make or break your feelings towards your work life. One of the biggest factors influencing that environment often comes down to the relationships coworkers have with one another. Have you ever had a job where you just didn’t feel like you connected with anyone else there? If so, it probably wasn’t your favourite place to spend time. The good news is there are things you can do to promote a pleasant dynamic amongst you and your peers.

Whether you are the new addition to the office or a long time employee, building positive relationships is important. With that said, here are five tips to help you get started.

#1 Be positive and kind

Look for the good and ignore the bad as much as possible. This is sometimes a tough one, but it can really help. Try focusing on the strong qualities others have. No one wants to be around the girl who is constantly complaining or saying mean things about other people. So don’t be that person. As Maya Angelou wisely said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Be the girl that makes other people feel good about themselves. More often than not the kindness will be reciprocated.

#2 Take an interest

Say good morning when you arrive and don’t be afraid of a little small talk now and again. You should focus on establishing a professional relationship, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take a polite interest in the personal lives of your colleagues. You could also ask them for their opinion about something you are working on. People feel appreciated when they are sought out for advice, and they won’t forget it.

#3 Team Building

If you are in a position do to so, organizing group challenges related to what you do can be a great way to strengthen team rapport. If you aren’t in such a position, you could always suggest it to a manager who is. Even weekly goals to work towards can do the trick. A little friendly competition can raise spirits and create cohesiveness amongst peers.

#4 Invite them to grab lunch or coffee

Don’t be shy about extending an invitation to spend a little time with someone outside of the office. A coffee or lunch break is the perfect opportunity to network. If you don’t feel entirely comfortable you could attach the invitation to a question you would like to ask them. As I said before, people are usually flattered when asked for advice. The conversation will likely shift to things outside of work and you can get to know one another better.

#5 Be considerate

Listen and be open to the ideas your coworkers have. No one likes to be ignored or disregarded. Also take any criticism they give constructively. If you disagree with something explain why and offer your own solution. Also avoid making anyone feel left out. Getting too cliquey with one or two coworkers exclusively can create hostility with those who aren’t included. If you have been getting along well with one coworker and you can feel another seeming distanced, invite them along the next time you two step out to grab a coffee.

Written by Lindy Callahan.