Sometimes it can be difficult to get along with your co-workers. It happens to everyone. There are some people that it is just hard to get along with. Even if it’s like this at your office, you need to learn that you are going to be spending a lot of time at the office. You might as well make it an enjoyable experience. If you are struggling to get along with people in your work-place, here are 10 suggestions to help you get along with your co-workers. You don’t have to be best friends with your co-workers, but you can definitely be friendly with them.
1. Ask questions
Get to know your co-workers. Sometimes, it may feel that no one wants to talk to you. This is usually not true. In reality, most people are extremely shy, and may not have the courage to talk to you. Get around this by breaking the ice. If you are new in an office, bring treats your first day. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Most often, people don’t know what to ask, and would rather be quiet. Don’t be like that and ask questions.
2. Talk around the water cooler
If you start to make friends, try to keep the small talk away from your desk. It may be nice to talk to your co-workers, but an even better way is to talk around the water cooler. You will be able to talk with other people, and you will get to know lots of people. If you don’t want to talk with people around the water cooler, you could even set up an office chat. This is a great way to keep in touch with your co-workers and share funny things that you find online.
3. Compliment others work
If you see that someone is doing a good job, don’t hesitate to compliment them. Compliments are a great way to start a conversation. It shows that you respect your co-worker, and most people respond to compliments. Even if it is a simple as complimenting their outfit, it can make a co-workers day.
4. Don’t talk about touchy subjects
When you are at the office, try to avoid touchy subjects. Although it is healthy to talk to your co-workers, try to avoid religion and politics. If you just know your co-workers, make sure that you keep the conversation light-hearted. Once you get to know your co-workers, try to avoid those subjects―because people can get very passionate about them.
5. Respect diversity
Respect that your office will have diversity. If this means that you have to have a “holiday party” instead of a “Christmas party” because of differing beliefs, embrace it. Understand that everyone is different. Respect that people have other faiths and beleifs than you. Ask your co-workers what they celebrate so you can understand them better.
6. Don’t gossip
As much fun as it might be―do not gossip! It is something horrible that can spread awful things in the office. Make sure that you are avoiding gossip. If a co-worker wants to spread gossip, shrug and nod politely. Don’t engage in gossip―it could hurt you in the long run.
7. Listen to your bosses
Respect your bosses. This can help you have a better relationship with your boss. If you can have a good relationship with your boss, you will also be able to have a good relationship with your co-workers.
8. Go above and beyond
In whatever you do, do the best that you can do. Others will be inspired by you. Your co-workers will also be inspired.
If you do these things at work, you will not only be able to get along with your co-workers, you will stand out to your bosses. Who knows, you might be the change in the office that people need. Work on being kind to everyone around you, and you will benefit because of it.
About the Author
Neltje M is a freelance writer for MyCollegesandCareers.com. My Colleges and Careers helps people determine if an online education is right for them and helps them understand which online courses they can choose from to reach their goals. The site even helps students find online mba programs to fit their needs.
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