No one wants to think they're difficult to get along with at work; however, building effective working relationships can sometimes be a challenge, particularly for managers who have been promoted into a role with people management responsibilities based on their individual skills and knowledge rather than their ability to deal with people and teams. While it's true that, first and foremost, you're at your work to do your job, you will find it a much more pleasurable experience if you make an effort to get along with the people you work with. The benefits of stronger relationships at work also include becoming a better people manager - you will be able to motivate and engage your team, drive higher performance and quickly spot when issues might begin to arise, so you can nip them in the bud. But how can you start doing this in practice? Take an interest in other people Spend some time getting to know your colleagues and clients both inside and outside the workplace. Find out what drives them to achieve their goals and objectives. Ask about their family, their hobbies etc. and build rapport by establishing areas of mutual interest. And attend social events (after work drinks, Christmas parties, leaving dos) as often as you can - they are good opportunities to make these connections.
Remember your manners While you may never be great friends with everyone, at least try to be cordial and professional in all your interactions. Say 'hello', nod and smile, and make 'please' and 'thank you' a regular part of your vocabulary.
Be considerate
If you share an office, you need to be conscious of workplace etiquette and think about how your personal interactions may impact on your co-workers. For example, try to keep excess noise (phone calls, mobile phone ringtones, personal conversations, computer volume) to a minimum: speak as quietly as possible in one-to-one interactions or when on the phone, and use headphones when you can.
Have a positive attitude Volunteer to help whenever you are in a position to do so. This doesn't mean saying yes to absolutely everything but do say yes to what you can. Equally, don't be afraid to say no to requests if your time and resources are limited, but let the other person know what, if anything you can do to help.
Approach your tasks in a positive manner: avoid being negative/complaining about your work or other people. If you're having a bad day, don't take it out on others - it's always better to have a reputation as a person who is cheerful in the face of adversity!
Don't gossip
When conversing with others in the workplace, keep non-work conversations to a minimum so as not to disturb the people around you who are working. If you are having a quick chat, be careful not to badmouth or gossip about anyone. If you overhear someone else gossiping, resist the temptation to join in.
Appreciate and be tolerant of other people's differences
Treat everyone as equals. Actively listen to and respect others' opinions - just because they may not have the same point of view as you does not necessarily mean that they are wrong. They may have some valid points that a different perspective brings to light.
Be supportive and collaborative
Ask about others' work and how you can get involved in it. Being willing to share your time and expertise will help you form a closer relationship because you're working directly with them to help them achieve their goals. They will appreciate your support and you will get to know them better. Equally, ask others to get involved in your own projects - the more they can participate in your activities, the better you'll get to know each other.
Say sorry when it's needed
If you've made a mistake, take responsibility and own up to it immediately - acknowledge it yourself, admit it to others, be open about what you'll do to fix it and by when, then move on. People are often judged by how they respond to mistakes, so try to see it as an opportunity for you to demonstrate your ability to cope well in a crisis and bounce back.
Give praise when it's due
Offer feedback and encouragement constructively, providing examples where appropriate. And if someone has done an exceptional job or gone the extra mile, say so - not just to them but to their colleagues too. Speaking positively about others show that you respect and appreciate their hard work. You don't have to go over the top - a simple 'well done' or 'good work' will often do.
Keep your promises Follow through and do what you say you'll do. Complete your tasks at the earliest opportunity, meet your deadlines and volunteer to help further if you can. For managers, breaking the promises they make to team members is a sure-fire way of losing their trust. It is therefore important to manage the expectations of your team members accordingly, and to explain to them at the earliest possible opportunity if you cannot deliver on something they have asked you to help with.
Follow up
When you've completed a task involving others, send a quick follow-up email asking 'Did that work for you?' or 'How are things going?' This can help cement relations by showing the other person you genuinely care about how thing turned out.
Do something 'nice' for others
Brew a fresh pot of coffee, take your turn at making the tea, change the water in the water cooler or surprise your colleagues with cakes one afternoon. Being nicer to your colleagues can even be as simple as complimenting someone on their new hairstyle or their choice of attire - as long as your compliment is sincere.
Conclusion Good working relationships are key to job satisfaction, motivation and success, allowing you to accomplish your goals and objectives more easily and effectively. Investing time and effort in building your working relationships will help ensure that you become a valued, recognised and well-respected colleague.
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