Let’s face it. We spend a good portion of our adult lives at work, so the importance of building strong relationships with our co-workers only makes sense. Sometimes, it’s easier said than done, though. At New Quest Coaching & Consulting we provide leadership and team building coaching and we know that building relationships with co-workers is rewarding, but may be difficult for some to navigate.
Here are seven ways to build better relationships with your co-workers:
We know you’ve got work to do, but taking five minutes to ask how someone’s weekend was or to congratulate them on the birth of their grandchild will go a long way into people viewing you as someone who genuinely cares. Ask questions and then listen to the answers. It will make your coworkers feel seen and heard – and help build positive relationships.
Not everyone gets their point across in the same way. Getting frustrated because a co-worker sends emails rather than walking down the hall to talk to you in person isn’t helpful. Instead, realizing that perhaps they feel more comfortable communicating in writing and feel intimidated face-to-face will help break down communication barriers and improve your relationships immensely.
It’s true that you have a busy life outside of work, but accepting an invitation to the office barbecue or adding five dollars to the staff birthday jar is an important step in becoming part of a team. Don’t feel obligated to attend every social gathering if there are a lot, but make a point to attend on occasion.
If you see a co-worker struggling and feel like you have the skills to help them move the project along, offer to help. Don’t jump in assuming it’s okay for you to take over, but gently offer your assistance. Chances are you may need help in the future and it’s nice to know you have an ally when the time comes.
Remember when you helped a co-worker craft an important email? Or finish up a task when they had to leave work suddenly? Now, you’re feeling flustered about an impending deadline, so you need to be brave enough to ask for the help you need. Relationships are full of give-and-take, but you can’t expect others to read your mind. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you say you’re going to be at a team meeting or a group event, be there, even it’s not mandatory. It is important co-workers view you as reliable and committed. If you can’t attend a meeting, you can decline, and that’s okay. Just be honest.
Even if much of your work is done alone, you are still part of a team. Appreciate the different roles everyone plays and don’t be afraid to recognize them. Say thank you when you see the custodian emptying your garbage, tell your office assistant you think she takes great messages. Let your co-worker know they did a great job on a project. Everyone benefits from feeling valued and the benefits will come full circle when you promote an environment of encouragement and positivity.
The strength of your team is the lifeblood of your business. For your organization to function effectively, it is vital to nurture, cultivate and support your professional relationships. Our world-class team-building programs help you do just that. If you would like us to work with your team, check out our online training and development courses!
We'd Love To Hear From You!
Get In Touch
newquest@newquestcc.com
Shane Jensen