"The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people." — Theodore Roosevelt
It is true - successful people know how to get along with others AND they work on it. Building positive work relationships is a very important part of one’s career and essential to achieving professional success. It may seem like common sense, but developing good relationships with your work colleagues (coworkers, clients, customers, and supervisors) is crucial. Here is the what, why and how on building positive work relationships.
What are the characteristics of a positive work relationship?
- Trust – Trusting your colleagues and earning their trust is the foundation that will allow you to work at your best.
- Respect – Treating others with kindness and respect will enhance your ability to work most effectively together.
- Responsibility – Taking responsibility for your words and actions, while also keeping in mind their impact on others, will foster good work relationships.
- Open Communication – Communicating in an open and honest manner, as well as listening and considering other opinions, will lead to positive relationships.
Why do I need to build positive work relationships?
- Positive relationships will make your work more enjoyable and generally lead to increased job satisfaction and productivity.
- Opportunities to engage in teamwork and involvement with key projects and decision-making are increased with good relationships.
- Building good working relationships can lead to salary increases, promotions, and new career opportunities.
- Positive work relationships will make you a happier person, increasing your overall quality of life.
How can I build positive work relationships?
- Develop your people skills, often called soft skills, which are essential for good working relationships. Complete this free online quiz to assess your people skills in the areas of collaboration, communication and conflict resolution.
- Take the initiative to help out without being asked and show your appreciation for others at your workplace.
- Know your boundaries at work – keep it professional and positive – avoid gossip or negative talk and if you have a difficult working relationship, focus on ways to improve it.
- Think of others, take the time to listen and interact, and treat everyone, at all levels, with respect.
Successful professionals all understand that positive working relationships are an essential part of their overall success. It takes time and effort, but the rewards of a positive work relationship will certainly pay off in many ways, both personally and professionally.