Building Relationships In The Workplace
18/05/14
Are you about to start your first job or internship following your graduation? Congratulations!
This is the start of your career and an amazing opportunity to start building relationships in your chosen field. Forming strong relationships at your workplace can be very beneficial for your career development in both the short and long term, however it can be easier said than done.
Starting a new job or internship can be nerve-racking and when you have so many new tasks and processes to familiarise yourself with, interacting with fellow colleagues may not be on the top of your mind. However, you can focus on the following simple but effective tips;
Smile
Whether you are walking past someone in the corridor or saying good morning to your team, always remember to smile. Smiling will give the impression that you are positive, friendly and approachable which are all great features to have. Especially when you are new in the workplace and people are still forming their impression of you.
Make an effort to interact with others
People in the Australian workplace tend to be friendly and interested in the people they work with beyond their professional skills and qualifications. Therefore, you should make an effort to get to know the people you work with and show genuine interest towards them. If you bump into someone in the staff kitchen, make sure you ask how their weekend was or how their day is going. These types of simple questions are a great way to start a conversation and start building relationships.
Don’t limit the interaction to your own team
Be sure to also introduce yourself to other teams and departments. Make an effort to get to know as many people in the company as possible and don’t forget to add the people you meet and work with to your network on LinkedIn.
Be involved
Get involved in the company’s activities; leaving functions, birthday celebrations or after work drinks are all great ways to meet new people and form relationships with the employees of the company. On a more daily basis, having lunch with your colleagues, going for a jog or to gym during lunch breaks with them are also great ways to strengthen professional relationships.
Creating positive relationships in the workplace has several benefits, for example it can help you in receiving a good employment reference or it could lead to a referral for another job in a different company now or in the future. Remember, it is not all about what you know but who you know as well when it comes to career development.
Building strong relationships with work is important, but equally as important is building relationships with your mentors and placement consultants. They are there to help you with finding placements and offer advice when needed. Speak to them about any concerns you may be having and they will be happy to assist.
