A major part of our adult life is spent at the workplace. While it is easy for some people to build a relationship at the workplace, it does not come naturally to others—relationships in the workplace matter more than you think.
The workplace is known to be one of the few environments where people are forced into relationships. Relationships at the workplace can have a positive or negative impact on your job.
When you build good relations, you feel less intimidated by your colleagues or team members. It is natural to feel more comfortable with the people you connect with.
This article will look at the importance of social interactions and few ways to build relationships in the workplace. Make sure to apply these tips in your interactions with your colleagues, team members, boss, clients, senior management, and administrators in the office.
Here are ten ways to help you develop and maintain good relationships in the workplace.
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How to Build Relationships at the Workplace
1. Develop opportunities to interact
It becomes easier to build relationship at workplace when you get a chance to interact with your coworkers or colleagues. You have to develop these opportunities by being early for meetings or last to leave the meetings, checking in or out at the same time. Doing so will show others that you are interested in connecting with them.
In this way, they will find you more approachable, and thus the chance of building healthy work relationships begins.
2. Get out of your comfort zone
You can do this by taking the initiative to start conversations. The important thing in establishing good relationships in the workplace is by showing your coworkers that you want to know and work with them better.
You will never be successful in developing working relationships with your colleagues if you do not make an effort to get to know each other. So, get out of your comfort zone; you can be the one to take the first step.
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3. Develop the habit of listening
This is the key to building rapport with individuals. Listening is essential for effective communication. When meeting colleagues or associates, it is important to put your listening skills to good use. This shows that you are interested in getting to know them and asking questions regarding their role, work background, and interests.
It has been seen that colleagues are more likely to support each other in the workplace when they feel that they are being heard and respected.
4. Try to avoid office politics or gossips
Every workplace has this. In the beginning, it may seem harmless to share a gossip (or two), but it can foster disengagement towards your job. If you are working in the office for over a few months, the chances are high that you have come across office gossip.
It is also better to keep your thoughts to yourself, non-work friends, or your closest friend in the office. Moreover, be extremely selective about who you share anything with while you’re on the clock. Venting to the wrong person can lead to unnecessary workplace drama; it creates an atmosphere of mistrust.
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5. Show appreciation
Always make it a point to appreciate those who are doing exemplary work or making positive contributions in the office. The notes can be handwritten or sent via email.
Colleagues like to be appreciated, and they will always remember you for your kind words. So, how do you maintain positive relationships with your coworkers? A small gesture as this goes a long way.
6. Make conversations
When we meet someone for the first time, it can be a bit intimidating. We often do not know what to say or ask. However, asking questions is a great way to start a conversation.
They will feel more comfortable with you when they share about themselves, and you demonstrate that you are interested in knowing more about them. Conversations help in building strong relationships at work.
7. Take breaks
The best way to build team relationships is by taking ‘breaks together’ at the workplace. Have lunch or tea together and take time to know about each other. Ensure you are listening more than talking.
8. Have a positive attitude
All of us like to be around positive people. Positivity is contagious. It creates energy that will strengthen your relationships with your colleagues. A positive attitude is more than just smiling and acting cheerful when others are around.
A positive attitude will also improve your reputation in the office. Since people are naturally drawn to positive people, your colleagues will start feeling more relaxed or happy in your presence.
9. Build trust
For any relationship to grow, the other person needs to know that you value them more as an individual than just using them for any project. Maintain workplace relationships and ethics.
10. Stay in touch
The first communication should not be your only communication. Relationships do not develop on their own. It takes time to nurture, develop a rapport, which ultimately develops a comfort level. Always be helpful, not overwhelming.
Conclusion
If you successfully carry out these tips, you are bound to build an effective interpersonal work relationship. You can also introduce some relationship-building activities for work. Moreover, positive work relationships will make your job less stressful and more enjoyable.
So, spare some time to create relationships in your workplace. The more you invest in creating good relations at the office, the double you will get back.
