How to Have Effective Workplace Relationships
- 1). Greet customers and coworkers with a smile and a friendly "hello." Extending a pleasant attitude toward others goes a long way toward opening the lines of communication and feeling more comfortable with coworkers. You don't have to be everyone's best friend. Just be cordial toward one another. This can even open the door to friendships you never anticipated.
- 2). Demonstrate respect toward others and avoid taking up too much of their time. Save longer conversations for the break room or when both parties are not busy. Closer friendships can always be fostered through after-work activities. Keep chats that aren't related to work to a minimum, and remember that coworkers have work to get done before they go home.
- 3). Keep the lines of communication open among coworkers, customers and management -- both verbally and electronically. Return phone calls and emails, and respond to messages to gain people's respect. You want to be seen by others as approachable. Ask questions for clarity and to avoid any misinterpretation of instructions.
- 4). Address workplace issues and problems immediately. Whether there is discord among coworkers that is making others feel uncomfortable or a more serious matter like sexual harassment, each issue must be handled in a professional, respectful manner. Never ignore or hold in negative feelings. Try to resolve disagreements with coworkers by understanding one another's differences. Do not be afraid to approach management about a concern to hash things out effectively.
- 5). Build a good reputation for yourself. The University of Northern Iowa College of Business Administration says people in the business world must pay attention to what they do and how they say things. Actions do speak louder than words. This can't be truer than in the workplace. Perform your job effectively, and do what you say you are going to do. Limit complaints, and strive to be the employee who maintains a positive attitude toward your job and others.
- 6). Acknowledge good work. If someone has done something outstanding for the company or a worker has pitched in to help coworkers with an important task, show appreciation by saying "thank you" or "good job." Positive reinforcement goes a long way toward making people feel good about themselves and strive to continue to be exemplary employees. A strong workplace has employees who support and encourage each other.
- 7). Perform team-building exercises. An article by the University of Northern Iowa discusses the increasing reliance among successful U.S. businesses on team-based work relationships. Employers can help coworkers get better acquainted in a relaxed environment through special employee luncheons, relay races and other games. Being more comfortable with each other creates a more relaxed, effective team that knows and respects its different personalities.