TIPS FOR A HAPPIER WORK PLACE Give a Happy Hello! in the Morning Do you plod into the office, eyes down, shoulders slumped, and immediately start work? If so, youre likely to find that coworkers ignore you (at best) or avoid you (at worst). Get into the habit of smiling and greeting your colleagues as you arrive in the morning or begin your shift. Its really amazing how fast this little courtesy can thaw chilly workplace relations. Learn the Art of Small Talk Ask your coworkers about their interests — their favorite music, movies, and books, as well as their hobbies. Showing a genuine interest in them will make them feel comfortable around you, she says. Once you know what floats their boat, clip items from newspapers or magazines to help start conversations. John, I saw this article about that singer you like, or, Mary, you like to knit, dont you? I found this great new knitting store not too far from here, and thought of you right away. Ask What They Think People love to be asked their opinion, so go out of your way to ask, What do you think belongs in this report? or, How do you think I should handle this situation with client X? Then give the advice giver a sincere thank-you, even if the ideas are less than helpful. Sidestep the Gossip Mill You dont want anyone talking about you behind your back, right? So return the favour. When a coworker sidles up to you bearing a juicy tidbit of gossip about Bettys office romance or Bills impending firing, respond with, Really? and then change the subject or get back to work. If you dont respond, the gossiper will move on — and youll retain the trust and respect of your colleagues. Return Calls and Emails Promptly To win friends at work, start with good office etiquette. Theres nothing more frustrating to busy coworkers than to have their emails and phone messages ignored. Your silence doesnt just make their jobs harder; it also conveys an unpleasant message: Youre unimportant to me. Give Credit Where Credit is Due Dont withhold credit from deserving coworkers. Youll alienate them, and they wont be there for you when you need them (or when they all go out for lunch). Embrace the attitude that we all win together, and let others know when a colleague has done something above and beyond on a project. Also, if someone incorrectly gives you credit and praise, acknowledge the coworker who deserves the accolades.
Posted on: Wed, 20 Nov 2013 06:16:34 +0000
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