Coworkers, Friendships, and Impressions

Take a minute. Imagine this is your first day at a new job.

Close your eyes and picture yourself walking around the office to introduce yourself to your coworkers.

It’s a little awkward, right? I mean, you smile, extend your hand, and exchange the simple pleasantries, but it seems artificial.

With time, positive energy, and effort that once stranger feeling can get transformed into a friendship. Is it possible to speed up this process? Yes!

Here are four communication tips to help create positive relationships with your coworkers.

1. Remain mindful of your body language

It’s important to understand that non-verbal communication matters. When meeting someone for the first time, don’t cross your arms and do make eye contact. If you cross your arms in front of your chest, it can signal that you are not interested in what the other person is saying to you. Don’t stare in their eyes, but looking at the person you are talking with is a vital step in establishing trust.

2. Listen

When introducing yourself, create a habit of listening with the intention to take a genuine interest in the other person. Make a considerable effort to remember their name and say, “it’s nice to meet you_(Enter their name in this blank)____. Most people love to talk about themselves, so, when you are the new member to a group, shut up and listen!

3. Ask questions

The ability to ask questions coincides with the previous suggestion to make listening skills a priority. When meeting someone for the first time, it is essential that you ask questions about them. I'm not asking you to conduct an interrogation, but if they begin to explain to you about their job, ask follow-up questions to deepen your understanding of what they do. These follow-up questions can convey messages of authentic interests in your coworker’s contributions to the company.

4. Smile

Yes, as simple as it seems, smiling can influence how others perceive you as personable and professional. A smile has the potential to relay messages of confidence and the willingness to work as part of a team. Regardless, if you happen to meet a coworker who frowns at you during an introduction, return a smile in their direction. Their expressions of unhappiness in most cases have nothing to do with you.

Some relationships take longer to form than others, so give yourself time. Look for things in common with your coworkers. For example, if you notice sports memorabilia hanging in the office or on a desk, ask them about a sports-related topic.

Present the best authentic version of yourself to others and in due time natural relationships will form.

Ok, so you took the time to read this blog and wonder, “what’s the point of this piece?”

The purpose of this week’s blog entry is to let you know that you are not alone. We all have these moments of awkwardness that often begin in the moments of shaking someone’s hand for the first time.

If you interested in exploring more leadership, confidence, and positive self-awareness tactics, trust in your instincts and enroll in my course!

#employees #leadership