If you are an ambitious individual with impressive career goals, it is unlikely that you go into work to make friends. You may think yourself too busy to connect with your fellow workers. You may also think that there are no advantages to investing in your relationships. This is simply not the case. There is so much to be gained from making friends and connections through work. Not only will you find it easier to make it through your day, you will also be able to establish yourself as a team player who can get along with anyone. Furthermore, the process of making friends is actually surprisingly easy. Below are five steps that will help you to see this.
Find interesting talking points
If you struggle to strike up conversations, you should be on the look out for interesting talking points. This is a great way for you to break the ice, without forcing the situation and making things awkward. Perhaps you could start by bringing a picture of your family into work. Hopefully, this will encourage your colleagues to ask you a few questions. It could also give you a helpful visual if you decide to talk about your home life. Alternatively, you could build up your own collection of Hilarious Coffee Mugs. They are sure to grab some attention in your break room, especially if you lend them out to your co-workers.
Help your colleagues out
The next step is to help your colleagues out. Although it is important that you focus on your own work, you should never hold back from offering up favors. This is a great way for you to show off your ability to work in a team. Not only this but, if you help one co-worker in particular, it is likely that they will remember your efforts. In return, they may begin to view you as a potential friend. Or, at the very least, they could return the favor at a later date.
Make the most of social spaces
In addition to this, you should make the most of social spaces. Whatever you do, don’t spend your break times sat behind your desk. This will send the message that you don’t have an interest in interacting with your colleagues. It will also make things more awkward when you finally decide to join in. Whenever possible you should eat lunch with your co-workers, join them for a coffee, and grab a quick snack.
Set up a lift share
Another clever step is to set up a lift share. This could be a fantastic way for you to cut down on your expenses. It could also be the perfect opportunity for you to bond with your co-workers. Instead of spending all of your time in a work setting or working alone from home, you will find it so much easier to strengthen your relationships in the outside world. Just remember to outline the rules of your lift share before you get started, as otherwise it could lead to disagreements.
Attend social events
Last but not least, you should make an effort to attend social events. If you are currently handling a hectic schedule, this may sound like the last thing you want to do. However, in order to make friends at work, you need to put yourself out there. From employee retreats to after work drinks, it is essential that you get involved.
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