Tips for creating healthy working relationships

 WE spend around a third of our lives at work. Our jobs and careers make a real impact on our overall levels of happiness. Having good work relationships will always make our jobs more enjoyable

Also, when we have great workplace relationships we will demonstrate cooperation, trust and fairness, acti­vating the reward centre of our brains which encourages even more positive interactions.

Here are some tips to create healthy relationships at the work­place.

1. Focus on self-awareness

This means taking full responsibility for your words and actions, not letting your own negative emotions impact the people around us.

If you feel frustration or resentment towards others this will manifest in what you observe and the way you engage.

By developing your own Emotional Intelligence, you will become more adept at identifying and handling your emotions be able to recognise the needs of others.

Again, if you view colleagues with compassion and respect, you will improve your interactions and build strong working relationships.

What would happen if you stopped making judgments and embraced a positive appraisal of your co-workers? If we saw difference as something valuable that could be harnessed and actually enhance your perception and understanding of those around you? Your vibe will always attract your tribe.

2. Be open and honest

A good relationships depend on open, honest communication. Wheth­er you are sending emails or meeting face-to-face or on video calls, the more effectively you communicate with those around you, the better you will connect. It is important to iden­tify the nature of your relationships with others.

What is it that we need and what do our colleagues need from us? Once you know the fundamentals of what you need you can be clear with communi­cating and better understanding each other’s requirements.

3. Practice active listening

Good people skills are essential. How good are you at collaborating, communicating and managing chal­lenge? People respond better to those who truly listen to what they have to say. By practicing active listening, you will talk less and understand colleagues more and you will quickly become trustworthy and have more successful interactions.

One key skill you can forget when listening is the power of a good ques­tion. Active listening is engaging in what you hear, asking questions such as ‘What would you like to happen?’ How can I help you address that? Shows you listen and you care.

4. Avoid bad people skills

Good people skills mean avoiding the bad people skills. Gossip and negativity can ruin any workplace relationships. If you are experiencing challenge with someone in your group, talk to them directly and kindly about the problem, be prepared to listen attentively and objectively.

Gossiping or colluding with other colleagues will only aggravate the issues, accelerating mistrust and ani­mosity.

5. Give praise and feedback

Everyone wants to feel that their work is appreciated and to feel truly valued. Genuinely complimenting the work and actions of those around you is a great way to build relationships.

Be honest, precise and authentic when delivering praise. Thank you or a gentle word of encouragement can make all the difference to some­one’s day. These positive interactions can have a ripple effect and create a much happier and more successful workplace