How to Be Everyone’s Favorite Colleague

It’s hard to believe that you may spend more hours with your coworkers than you do your significant other, family members or pets. You may only work the average 40 hours, but many jobs require many of us to work after hours or attend company events.

Because of that, it’s important to nurture your relationships at work and be the best coworker you can be. With so much time spent together, it’s inevitable that your coworkers might annoy you at times. But, with a few simple steps, you can be on your way to being the best version of your work self.

START EACH DAY WITH AN UPBEAT "HELLO!"
Get into the habit of greeting your coworkers with a smile and positive hello when you arrive at work each morning. Starting each day with a positive encounter with your coworkers can lessen chilly workplace relations, and make coworkers feel like their presence is noticed and valued.

LEARN THE ART OF SMALL TALK
Ask your coworkers about their weekend plans, or even show a genuine interest into their favorite things – music, movies, books, hobbies, etc. Learning coworkers’ interests outside of workplace happenings will make for a more comfortable office environment and possibly lead to some new friendships.

ASK THEM WHAT THEY THINK
Think about the sense of pride you feel when someone asks for your thoughts or feedback. Make your coworkers feel valued by asking them for their opinion, such as “How could I improve this report?” or “How should I handle X?”. When your coworkers offer advice, make sure to thank them and let them know if you do execute upon their recommendations!

AVOID GOSSIP AND OFFICE DRAMA
Maintain the trust and respect of your coworkers by staying out of office drama. When coworkers are gossiping, try to stay out of the conversation or change the subject. Think about how you would feel if someone were spreading stories about you and do your best to shut down rumors when possible.

GIVE CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE
If your coworker does something to help you, give them the credit they deserve. Embrace the attitude that when you win, you win together. When someone goes above and beyond, let them know. This is an excellent way to earn your coworkers’ trust.

BE PUNCTUAL AND ALWAYS RESPECT OTHERS' TIME
Value your time and the time of your coworkers by meeting deadlines and always being punctual. When you’re at work, work efficiently. Avoid procrastinating or getting off task as this can often affect your colleagues’ day or schedule.

KEEP IT CLEAN
Do your part in office upkeep by maintaining a clean and organized office space. In shared spaces like the breakroom, kitchen or conference room, always clean up after yourself. If you see that someone else left a mess, clean it up. If someone consistently leaves a mess for you to clean up, it is worth having a conversation about so that resentment doesn’t build up.

REACH OUT TO NEW COWORKERS
Nurture an environment of teamwork by supporting new team members. You could volunteer to mentor, take them out for a cup of coffee or even check with them to see how the new job is going. Doing so is a great way to get to know a new person and will make both of you feel good.

SPREAD GOOD CHEER
Perform acts of kindness at work. Others will notice your good deeds and hopefully follow your lead. You could make a treat for the office, write a card to a coworker or arrange for a coworker’s birthday celebration. Even the smallest olive branch can make a big impact!

No matter where you work or who you work with, it is important to strive to be the best coworker you can be. Thoughtfulness is the best way to ensure your workplace relationships are solid – not toxic. In the end, it’s always better to have someone in your corner than be on the defense.