Principles of Postive Co-Worker Relationships

Respect People's Differences
Each of us is unique - it's a fact that we must accept and learn from. Each of us may approach life, and work differently and while that may be a challenge for some of us to co-exist with people that don't think the same way about certain things. We do each owe the other "respect" for their feelings and values.

Think Positive!
It's easier to talk to folks and get along with people who are positive thinkers and not always talking negatively - about every topic.

Acknowledge your Co-workers
Talk to each other on a regular and casual basis. Say "Good Morning!" with a Smile - answer the phone with a Smile!, you don't have to have regular conversations with every co-worker, but acknowledge their presence and be positive when talking to them. Sometimes a co-worker can be having a terrible day, and just one "positive" comment or compliment, can make a dreadful day - bearable!

LISTEN!!
Listen to co-workers when they talk to you - don't just pretend - you'll never earn respect or understand others till you give them your full attention.

Appreciate Others
No "one" person can or should do everything in a workplace - So just as you want support and appreciation for the job you do each day - show the same consideration for your co-workers.

Pitch In and Help Out!
I have always preached that you should try to go beyond your job description, think out of the box - go the extra mile - Every once in awhile - DO THAT! without being asked, just Pitch In and Help Out! and Don't let people down when you offer to do something extra or volunteer for a project. But be careful that you don't come across as a "martyr" - someone who wants to do it all - and/or someone who only knows the right way a project should be done.

Live Up to Your End of the Job
Your employers have certain expectations of you and so do your co-workers, always do your job to the "best" of your abilities - don't look for the easy way out, or try to ask a co-worker to do "part of your job", be a problem solver, and remember to always seek improvement in all that you do.

Respect People's Time & Priorities
We all are working under pressure and deadlines. Respect your co-workers need for concentration, and if you need to interrupt them - ASK first if this is a good time to interrupt them - If your request is urgent - Apologize for the interruption and keep your request brief. Remember that each of us has a different "style" of working. so respect your co-workers style of time management and prioritizing their workload.

Be Willing to Admit your Mistakes and Apologize Gracefully
Co-workers understand that mistakes happen, and that we don't intentionally make them - so admit when you're wrong or made a mistake and get on with your job.

Invest in Other Parts of Your Life
Make sure that you are taking care of "YOU," and that your non-work life is enriching - indulge in hobbies, sports, exercise, reading, travel, socializing - Don't make YOUR JOB and the people you work with the focus of your Life - try not to take home "your" work problems..Life is too short to work 40 hours a week, and then come home and "stew" or be upset about what happened during the day..Change out of your "work clothes" and "work mindset" and do something entirely different - when you get home - focus in on your family, your hobbies, and yourself.

Understand that Life on the JOB won't always be perfect
You will have co-workers, bosses, and employers that you "don't like or agree with" - If you find that you absolutely can't work with certain people, then look for another job, Don't settle for an unpleasant work environment - you won't be a productive worker, or a happy co-worker - It may take practice and patience but harmony at work is within your power!

Source
MP Singh
July 21, 2008 post to caclubindia.com