Whether you work in an office, retail store, health care facility, restaurant or (especially today) from your kitchen table, building strong working relationships takes time and effort. However, there’s nothing more effective in creating a positive, productive workplace for yourself and your coworkers.
I think as we’ve all been separated, it’s easier to appreciate the simple workplace interactions we took for granted pre-pandemic. The situation has also shone a light on the positive and the challenging relationships we have with each other.
Each person you work with is not just a resource of Company X, but also an individual with his or her own unique style and circumstances. You don’t have to be friends. You don’t even have to like each other. However, you will work together better if you can get along, show each other respect, and have an understanding of each other’s work style.
Here are 4 simple ways to build stronger relationships with the people you see every day…or once a week via videoconference.
- Listen. It’s amazing what you can learn about people when you stop talking and really pay attention to what they’re saying. When you start to know someone and can ask “How’s that basement renovation coming along?” or “What are you looking forward to most on your next trip to Florida?” they know you paid attention to their previous conversation. But don’t fake it—truly listen. This is the genesis of many friendships.
- Share information. If you have information that can help someone, pass it along! It doesn’t matter if they asked for it or not; as a matter of fact, if they weren’t expecting it, they may be even more appreciative. This is being courteous but it’s an extra step that, sadly, many people choose not to take. When you freely share information, others remember it and that helps make you a very valued team member. Remember, though — you are sharing relevant information, not telling your coworkers how to do their jobs.
- Keep your promises. Always. If you can’t, then explain how the circumstances have changed—and do it in person when possible. If your actions negatively impact others, then cover for them if you can. Someone’s going to have to take the hit here. If you caused the problem, it should be you.
- Say thank you. In person, by phone, over text, with a note, through a comment sent to the supervisor, via skywriting…there are never too many ways to say thank you and it’s so easy to forget. Sure, the huge projects get recognized, but sometimes we need encouragement for the little things, too. Does someone consistently do a great job whenever you work together? Send her an email saying so and copy her manager. Is there a coworker who has always greeted you every day with a smile on his face? Think about what it would be like without that greeting and then tell him how much you appreciate it. Then try to spread that positive attitude to the next person.
You work with people who act differently, work differently, communicate differently, and like to be treated differently. Take the time to get to know them and you’ve laid a solid foundation for a more effective working relationship. And maybe even a lifelong friendship or two.