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Here are some ways to improve your work relationships.
Always be positive
Having an uplifting, cheerful attitude is much more appreciated by others than being negative. Positivity is a very likeable trait. Not only is it important to not talk negatively to co-workers, but it is also important to never talk poorly about co-workers or your boss.
Compliment your co-workers
Compliments show others you recognize their personal or professional achievements. Too often, people tend to find faults in others and put their focus on that. Show co-workers you appreciate their hard work by giving them compliments but make sure to only give these compliments when they are sincere.
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Be helpful
Be the first one to offer your services if you notice someone at work who could use a helping hand but don't do it to seek recognition. Instead, try taking the advice of Rita Friedman, a Philadelphia-based career coach who was quoted in an article from Forbes as saying, "If you are asking colleagues whether they could use some assistance, do so quietly. It's not about showing the rest of the team that you're taking on extra work, it's about helping someone out and building that individual relationship."
Get to know your co-workers and boss
If you want to build a better relationship with your co-workers and boss, then you're going to want to get to know more about them. What do they enjoy doing in their spare time? How long have they been working with the company? By getting to know your colleagues, you will be showing them you enjoy working with them and look forward to working with them for what you hope will be a long time.
Be friendly
No matter how busy you are at work, take time to socialize with your co-workers and boss. This will show them you are a friendly person and are fun to work with. It can be as simple as saying hello when you first come to work and saying goodbye before you leave.
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Use effective communication skills
Although many people master the art of proper communication, being able to communicate effectively with co-workers can be more of a challenge. An important skill is listening. Instead of genuinely listening to what someone is saying, we often make the mistake of interrupting before they have finished talking. "Rushing to get your own ideas out there can cause colleagues to feel you don't value their opinions," said Friedman. Show others you care by listening and then repeating what they told you to show you care.
Write thank-you notes
For the co-workers you see going above and beyond when it comes to their job, write them a note of appreciation to thank them for being awesome. These notes can be handwritten or sent by email. Your co-workers will feel a sense of closeness to you by having been noticed and thanked for their contributions. You can also make an impression by writing notes on holidays or by remembering and acknowledging your co-workers' birthdays.
Ask questions
Many people appreciate when others ask for their opinion. Try going out of your normal routine by asking your co-workers or boss for their opinions or advice on a project you're working on. You never know how their opinions could benefit your project overall.
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Participate in activities outside of work
Work can be a stressful place, and it may be difficult to fully develop a relationship when you and others are always on your toes. The best way to get to know someone is outside of work. Go to lunch together or have fun gatherings on the weekends or evenings. This will help to build a friendship of trust and make working with your co-workers and boss all the more enjoyable.
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