For most of us, work is like our second home. We spend more than forty of our waking hours in a week working, some even more. That is why it is crucial for our personal, emotional, and professional development to make friends in the office. Having friends around the workplace is not necessary, but no one can deny the fact that it has benefits.
“Work friends” are sure to lend you a hand if you are swamped with paper work. They are there to give you free and honest advice on areas that you may be lacking. They can also be a shoulder to cry on if you have frustrations and concerns about your boss or co-worker. Most important of all, having friends at work gives you another reason to get up in the morning and head to work.
Your first friends will most certainly be those who are near you. Co-workers within the same department are also easy to befriend, since you already have something in common and would find conversation to come naturally. But don’t limit yourself to just a few friends. Reach out and get to know as many co-workers as possible. Remember, there’s no such thing as too many friends.
The following are some tips and suggestions on how to connect and eventually make friends at work. Please note that this guide is written with new employees in mind.
Make a good first impression. Smile and be genuinely interested when you are introduced to a co-worker. Although this might be an awkward situation to some, try to make the best of it and make sure to be pleasant at all times.
Remember their names. It would be embarrassing if your co-worker addresses you by name and you couldn’t because you forgot theirs. Full names are hard to remember, I know, that is why I would suggest to offer your nickname when introduced, and get your co-workers’ as well.
Make lunch and snack time count. Free hours are the best times to get to know each other. Offer to join lunch-outs when the opportunity presents itself. In addition, don’t ever refuse an invitation because this is a good sign that they want to know you better. Not accepting it may come off as you wanting the opposite to happen.
Bring conversation pieces to the office. If allowed by your employer, bring along pictures, memorabilia, toys, or anything that may strike conversation when seen by others. This is a good chance for them to know a little bit more about your personal life.
Be open. Accept that not everyone will agree with you or like you. At the same time, you’ll sure to meet someone who you won’t agree with and like either. Just remember to mind your manners and never be rude. Instead, understand that each person is an individual, with different preferences the same as you.
Don’t rush it! Friendship grows overtime. There’s no use forcing yourself to someone who obviously is not interested with having you as a friend. Don’t be too needy or clingy and just let things happen naturally.
Tags: friendship advice, online friendship