21 Aug How to Befriend Your Coworkers
Having friends at work can create a more enjoyable work environment. You feel like you have an ally and you aren’t all alone in the workplace. However, the workforce can be competitive and making friends can be a challenge. Here are a few ways that you can create work friendships and build personal relationships at the office.
Say ‘Hi’
As you walk by your coworkers on your way to break room or in the parking lot, make sure to say “hi.” You don’t have to start a full conversation with the individual but a friendly gesture is a simple and easy way to show that you are friendly, approachable, and kind. By ignoring the individual, even if you are shy, it gives off the impression that you don’t want to be friends, you are closed off, and you are self-important.
Learn Who People Are
If you work in a smaller workplace, it is easy to get to know those you work with. However, in larger offices, this can be a daunting task. Get to know who people are and learn their names. Strive to learn the various job titles for each individual and their role in the company. Each time you talk to the person, make sure to mention their name. This shows that you know who they are and are interested in what they do.
Ask for Assistance
Don’t be afraid to ask your coworkers for assistance with various projects or tasks. If you have questions regarding certain details, technology, features, etc., reach out. This not only shows that you value their help and expertise, but it gives you a great opportunity to talk to the individual and get to know them. Just make sure you aren’t taking advantage of them and you are not wasting their time.
Participate in Group Activities
If your coworkers sit in the break room during lunch or you find them enjoying their morning breaks outside, go to these areas as well. Sit down with various individuals and talk to them. Strike up a conversation by asking about their hobbies, some of their particular tasks around the workplace, etc. Find something that you have in common and use that as a way to further the conversation. This is a simple and effective way to build work friendships.
Be Happy
People are attracted to others who are happy and upbeat. They don’t want to spend time with people who are constantly whining and pessimistic. In the workforce, particularly if you don’t like your job, you may not realize the negative and destructive comments you may be making. As you interact with various coworkers, pay attention to what you say. If you have a lot of complaints about your job, keep them to yourself when at the office.
Keep in mind that building work friendships shouldn’t be something that is rushed. By taking your time and truly getting to know those you work with, you will create a more enjoyable and pleasant work environment.
