People who have good relationships at work tend to do well, advance in their careers and experience higher job and work satisfaction.

Having good relationships requires that you are both supportive of others and receptive of support and encouragement from others.

We’re Naturally Social

Human beings are naturally social, craving positive interactions, friendship and encouragement. In general, people who have excellent relationships at work are happier and more productive than those who struggle to maintain happy relationships at work or work alone constantly.

Better Enjoyment of Work and Increased Collaboration

Work can be more enjoyable and the work day go faster when you have good working relationships. When you get along with others, they are also quicker to support new ideas you promote and you can all work together better as a team. This is also very helpful when you face a stressful situation or work crisis as you can rally people together and get a consensus quickly.

Seize Opportunities

Good relationships free you to be yourself and give you more freedom. Instead of  constantly facing problems tied to negative relationships, you can focus on opportunities. Being supportive of others creates good working relationships that in turn, can help you recognize opportunities and take action.

You need good working relationships with others professionally to get things done in a team. Good relationships with your team, customers, management, suppliers, vendors and stakeholders are important for your success.

Let’s take a closer look at what we mean by a ‘good relationship’ and being supportive.

There are several characteristics in a healthy working relationship such as:

1)    Trust:

Trust is essential to building mutual support and also getting work done. Without trust, you can live in an atmosphere of suspicion and negativity that wastes time and leads to great frustration, unhealthy dynamics and stress.

2) Respect:

Respect means you value people you work with and treat their ideas and contributions with consideration. Mutual respect helps you develop solutions together.

3) Self-Awareness:

Being self-aware means that you take responsibility for your actions and your words, being careful to say and do what you mean and being accountable when you haven’t.

4) Recognizing Differences:

People come from different backgrounds and experiences. Being respectful of this is essential to work together.

5) Communicating Openly:

While firing off emails and messages can be instantaneous, they lack the direct nature and connections you have when you have a direct face-to-face meeting. Aim to have direct meetings and develop honest communications as much as possible.

6) Be Appreciative:

Show appreciation when possible to someone who helps you, whether it is the person cleaning the office or your peer or your boss.

“None of us got to where we are alone. Whether the assistance we received was obvious or subtle, acknowledging someone’s help is a big part of understanding the importance of saying thank you.” – Harvey MacKay, business entrepreneur and syndicated newspaper columnist

7) Be Positive:

Focus on being positive and this will help strengthen your relationships with people you work with.

Achieving excellent work relationships takes time. Some of these skills are acquired and require patience and practice. Learn more about how to collaborate and resolve conflicts through reading and seeking out the advice of people you trust. Take notes on your own strengths and weaknesses. Aim to overcome your weaknesses.

Learn more, also, about your own relationship needs so you are aware of what you bring into the situation and what you need. Also pay attention to what people need from you, whether it is validation, comfort, guidance or encouragement. Learning both about your own needs and those of people you work with, definitely helps you become more supportive and strengthen your relationships.

 

photo credit: Modern Workforce #DellVenue via photopin (license)