Social etiquette in the workplace can go a long way. It can be the leading factor to getting that promotion.
Being an overall pleasant person to work with, or for, can be a strong driver to building a successful career.
People naturally want to work for someone who recognizes their talents, challenges them, and is a nice person. Alternatively, people want to work with people who are easy to get along with.
Let’s face it, when you have great co-workers, your day goes by so much faster! Here are some tips to increase your likeability level. (Not that you aren’t already an awesome person!)
Smile.
Smiling can go a long way. Smile at people in the elevators and smile for no reason, it’s infectious!
Be respectful.
Be respectful to those around you. For example, when someone is speaking at a meeting, give them your full attention and put your phone away.
Make small talk with people.
This is not easy for everyone, but try to get to know new people. Ask them how their day is going, what they are having for lunch and what they have planned for the weekend. These little conversations can turn into potential friendships and increase your network.
Don’t participate in workplace gossip.
This may be tempting, but don’t fall into the trap. This is something that may come to bite you in the back later on.
When people are talking, listen!
Engage in conversation, ask questions and listen with attention when people speak. You learn and connect more to others when you listen and are fully present.
Address people by their names.
I saw this suggestion in the book “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. You add a personal element when you address people by their names. It shows that you took the time to learn someone’s name and that you care. When talking to people in person/via email, try this out!
Participate.
When there are work socials, potlucks and events, try to participate and contribute. These are all great ways to bond and connect with your team. When you are at a meeting and are asked for feedback, give your feedback and participate in the conversation. This will reflect positively on you and will show that you are interested and engaged!
Offer to help when you can.
When you have some downtime, ask your manager or colleagues if they need help. Your efforts will be recognized and it will show that you genuinely care about the team’s success.
Last but not least…be yourself!
Be authentic and be true to yourself. You don’t need to be another version of yourself to get along with people. Be true to who you are and everything will fall into place.
Written by: Dula Vigneswaran