In any workplace, relationships with your coworkers are key to a good experience. Whether you're looking for someone to grab lunch with or you need help on a project, relationships make work more enjoyable.
Building relationships can help you feel more connected and supported at work, which can lead to a more productive and enjoyable team environment.
But, building relationships with your peers or teammates isn't an easy task. As everyone is too busy with their own lives to invest time in getting to know each other. But, it's worth it to make the effort.
Here are a few tips for building better relationships with your co-workers.
1) Take an interest in them
If you take an interest in what your coworkers do and who they are outside of the office, you'll help to build a foundation for a good relationship.
Don't just ask them about their job; ask how it's going, if they like their team or manager, or things that aren't work-related.
Try to learn more about what makes them who they are, and you'll gain a better understanding of where they're coming from.
By taking this interest in your coworkers, you'll show that you care about them as people, not just co-workers, which will make the relationship stronger.
2) Ask questions
Asking questions is a simple way you can get to know your coworkers better.
For example, if you're working on a project with someone and they mention something that triggers interest in you, ask them about it.
This shows that you take an interest in what they say and that their opinion matters to you.
You could even ask them to elaborate on the topic.
You'll be surprised how much you can learn from someone when you really listen to what they have to say.
3) Treat everyone equally
When you think about building relationships with your coworkers, it's easy to focus solely on the people who are closest to you.
In reality, focusing too much on these few people can make other coworkers feel left out or ignored. When you do actually pay attention to those people who aren't as close. They'll be able to tell that you care.
It's important to work hard to give everyone equal attention. A positive relationship with each person is important for a healthy team environment.
4) Listen more than you talk
It's natural for a lot of us to be very talkative when we're in conversations with people, but try listening more than you speak.
This will help your peers feel like they've been heard and that their opinion matters. It also allows you to gain valuable knowledge about who they are and what they care about.
As an added benefit, you'll be able to pick up on important details for projects and meetings.
5) Be personable
People naturally want to connect with anyone who they feel is "real" and approachable. When you're personable, people will be more likely to open up, create stronger relationships, and have a much better work environment.
You don't need to be the life of the party or constantly cracking jokes, but try to engage in some light conversation with your peers. Tell them about something you're passionate about or go out for drinks after work.