If you want to succeed on the job, you need the support and respect of your co-workers. After all, you never know when you’ll be asked to partner with someone on a project or need a helping hand from a fellow staffer. Having good relationships at work also makes it more pleasant to be there. Provided by Robert Half International, here are eight ways to build good karma at work.
- Be friendly – While it may seem that your reputation is formed solely by the quality of your work, your attitude is a big factor. Smiling and saying hello to all you pass is an easy way to project a friendly and positive attitude. Other small acts, like opening a door for a co-worker can go a long way. After all, people want to work with those they like.
- Offer a helping hand – It’s certainly nice to take a break and relax between assignments, but if you can tell that a co-worker is stressing out over a project while you’re kicking back, offer to give him or her a hand. They will remember the gesture the next time you need assistance.
- Volunteer for an unwanted project – Sure, it may not be a lot of fun. But if you pitch in to assist, you’ll develop a reputation as a team player and you’re likely to build new skills in the process. Bonus: These types of projects are sometimes near and dear to a boss’s heart and stepping up can be a good way to distinguish yourself in their eyes.
- Leave things better than when you found them – At all costs, avoid being the person who makes other people’s jobs more tedious. For example, clean up after yourself. Leaving a mess may be the most annoying behavior in the workplace. Another way to fill your karma bank is to refill the printer when it runs out of paper. Pull the jammed paper from the copier and get it back online. If you can’t fix a piece of equipment you’ve broken, promptly report the problem to someone who can.
- Be aware of your annoying habits – Do your best to avoid irritating your co-workers, especially if you work in an open environment where people are in close proximity to one another. Avoid constantly going in the back to text, speaking loudly or jingling the change in your pocket; it can make it hard for others to get their work done.
- Reach out to the newbie – Remember how you felt on your first day in the shop, not knowing anyone and wondering about everything from where the supplies were located to where to take a break? Help out a new colleague by so you can explain the unwritten rules of the shop operation and answer any questions your co-worker has. Chances are, this small act of kindness will be remembered.
- Listen – You may be certain that your idea for solving a sticky problem is the best one, however, it never hurts to hear what your co-workers have to say before pushing your point. Showing respect for others’ ideas will let them know you value their opinions. In addition, you might be able to build on their thoughts to come up with a solution superior to the one you came up with on your own.
- Recognize people’s efforts – This may be the most important rule of all. When a co-worker helps you out or makes your job easier, say thank you. If his or her efforts were outstanding, let the boss know. Your colleagues will be much more likely to assist you on your next project if you made them feel good about their work on the last one.
One final piece of advice: Remember the Golden Rule when interacting with others in the workplace. Treating people as you’d like to be treated will help ensure you build a reputation as a pleasant, helpful colleague.
Contact Carol Pence by calling (510) 706-1583 or via e-mail at [email protected].