The office is like any other organization: relationships with people govern how well you will enjoy your day, the possibility of you keeping your job, and your ability to attain a promotion or raise. In general, it is best to be liked and known by everyone within two or three rankings of you in your department should you wish you to advance your career. In the office, there are a few subtle ways to build a network of associates that have a general liking of you.
Attitude makes all the difference
The simplest way to build a relationship amongst your coworkers and supervisors is to have a good attitude when communicating with them, other people, and in a group. This includes both personal communication and business communication. Answer phone calls with a positive attitude. Don't be overly "giddy" as your attitude will be too exaggerated and annoys your coworkers. If people see you as someone enjoyable to talk to, you are more likely to be approachable for conversation that might benefit you in some way (invites to private parties, invites to take on project that might lead to promotion, or even the ability to get in the good graces of management several levels above you.)
Use your ability of recognize levels of organizational structure and separation of power in a group to your advantage. People of a higher rank expect to be seen as authority. They might ask you to call them by their first name, but you should always be aware where to draw the line in talking to them. When talking to upper management as a new worker, you might be asked to call them by their first name in meetings. Do not let this openness fool you. You should address them as Mr. Smith or Sir when talking to them. When talking to your supervisor with the same invitation, it is fine to call them by their first name, but always say "yes sir" or "yes mam". Women of any age older than your mother should be addressed as Ms. Debbie or Ms. Smith. Position within the company does not matter for that situation.
You coworkers at your level will find it awkward if you are too formal with them. There is going to be competition within the your group for the favor of the supervisor or any other office reward. It is important to be assertive, but let them "win one" here and there. This way you are relatively balanced, and they will note this as a gesture of friendship.
The most active way to build a relationship: Communication
You can't build a relationship with anyone without some form of communication. The office offers several forms and chances to communicate daily, but you might need to make an honest effort to communicate more during the day should you feel disjointed from the group. It is good to show personal interest in your supervisor (do you understand your supervisor?) from time to time. For example, if you notice your supervisor has motorcycle-related decorations (and you are interested in motorcycles), don't be afraid to start a conversation about it. You can also walk around from time to time and just ask "how is your day."
Show interest in your coworkers. They will feel more accepted, and you have something to build a positive relationship with. Your attitude tells your coworker what kind of worker you are, and a bit of respect sweetens that image. Those who are well liked will receive the rewards.
External articles that you will benefit from reading
Human Relations in the Workplace
Building Relationships in the Workplace
The office is like any other organization: relationships with people govern how well you will enjoy your day, the possibility of you keeping your job, and your ability to attain a promotion or raise. In general, it is best to be liked and known by everyone within two or three rankings of you in your department should you wish you to advance your career. In the office, there are a few subtle ways to build a network of associates that have a general liking of you.
Attitude makes all the difference
The simplest way to build a relationship amongst your coworkers and supervisors is to have a good attitude when communicating with them, other people, and in a group. This includes both personal communication and business communication. Answer phone calls with a positive attitude. Don't be overly "giddy" as your attitude will be too exaggerated and annoys your coworkers. If people see you as someone enjoyable to talk to, you are more likely to be approachable for conversation that might benefit you in some way (invites to private parties, invites to take on project that might lead to promotion, or even the ability to get in the good graces of management several levels above you.)
Strive for this (Source)
Respect your fellow coworker
Use your ability of recognize levels of organizational structure and separation of power in a group to your advantage. People of a higher rank expect to be seen as authority. They might ask you to call them by their first name, but you should always be aware where to draw the line in talking to them. When talking to upper management as a new worker, you might be asked to call them by their first name in meetings. Do not let this openness fool you. You should address them as Mr. Smith or Sir when talking to them. When talking to your supervisor with the same invitation, it is fine to call them by their first name, but always say "yes sir" or "yes mam". Women of any age older than your mother should be addressed as Ms. Debbie or Ms. Smith. Position within the company does not matter for that situation.
You coworkers at your level will find it awkward if you are too formal with them. There is going to be competition within the your group for the favor of the supervisor or any other office reward. It is important to be assertive, but let them "win one" here and there. This way you are relatively balanced, and they will note this as a gesture of friendship.
The most active way to build a relationship: Communication
You can't build a relationship with anyone without some form of communication. The office offers several forms and chances to communicate daily, but you might need to make an honest effort to communicate more during the day should you feel disjointed from the group. It is good to show personal interest in your supervisor (do you understand your supervisor?) from time to time. For example, if you notice your supervisor has motorcycle-related decorations (and you are interested in motorcycles), don't be afraid to start a conversation about it. You can also walk around from time to time and just ask "how is your day."
Show interest in your coworkers. They will feel more accepted, and you have something to build a positive relationship with. Your attitude tells your coworker what kind of worker you are, and a bit of respect sweetens that image. Those who are well liked will receive the rewards.
External articles that you will benefit from reading
Top Ten Workplace Communication Skills: How They Can Make Work Work For You! - This article is about proper communication within the workplace and how you can adjust yourself to be a winner while saving face with your coworkers.PREVIOUS: Avoiding Potential Conflicts NEXT: Contacts