What type of coworker are you? Are you the Dwight, the Kelly, or the Pam? Either way, you play a role in your office culture which can directly affect your fellow coworkers in either a positive or negative way. It is easy to fall into habits like participating in office gossip or maybe overstepping boundaries ultimately making your coworker feel less than. On the other hand, you may be an excellent coworker and you may be able to help someone else be their best! We are here to help with strategies to become the best coworker you can be!
- Keep your head in the game and your eyes on the prize. Focusing on your work can cause others around you to do the same. There are always going to be people who can’t seem to mind their business or are always spewing negativity. Try to steer clear of these people. Don’t engage if you can help it, and if you are one of these people, keep in mind that you may be making those around you extremely uncomfortable. If you come to work every day with the intention of doing your job to the best of your ability, chances are you will attract the right people and the right growth opportunities. This will not go unnoticed.
- Get to know your coworkers. After all, you will likely be spending a lot of time with these people so building a good relationship with them will make your time at work much more enjoyable. Learn about what they like, and dislike and you may be surprised that you have a lot in common. Try to keep the chatter professional and to a minimum so you are not distracting them from their daily tasks. Nobody likes a chatty Cathy. Also, keep the conversation light. It is best to avoid sensitive subjects such as politics, religion, or money as differences of opinion could lead to conflict or misjudgments.
- Be approachable. Keeping yourself open and approachable for others to ask questions freely is a HUGE asset. If you are helpful to your fellow coworkers, they will likely return the favor when the time comes. Being the “go-to” in your workplace is extremely beneficial to you as it keeps your name out there for managers to hear and it allows you to absorb as much information as possible. After all, the teacher learns the most. This point is especially helpful if there is someone new in your office. Oftentimes, people are afraid to ask questions so maybe asking how they are doing or offering assistance will make them feel more comfortable to ask moving forward.
- Be respectful of your coworkers’ time and surroundings. Be sure to respond to emails diligently. If you are asked to do something and know that you will not get to it for a moment, let them know. Keep them in the loop when it comes to collaborations and make sure to always hold up your end of the workload. Also, be respectful of their surroundings. If you share a breakroom, clean up after yourself. If you notice the paper in the printer is low, fill it. There are no tasks too small. Don’t get into the mind frame of “that’s not my job,” and that doesn’t benefit anyone.
There are of course a billion things in between these key points that will make you a great coworker but practicing these 4 things is sure to put you in the right direction. Harvesting a good relationship with your managers and coworkers is shown to be helpful when it comes time for a promotion, and it will make sure the 40+ hours you spend at work each week are spent being happy. If you have read through these points and feel as though your work environment does not support the opportunity for you to become a great coworker, it may be time for a change. For further assistance please give us a call at (518) 275-4816 where we are happy to help find your perfect fit!
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