If you're a motivated employee, focusing on your personal contributions in the workplace comes naturally. Whether you’ve started a new job or been put on a team for a big project, it’s crucial to understand how to be a team player. Not only does collaborating help build your character, but being likable at work can ultimately help you achieve your professional goals.
Here are some tips to becoming a stellar teammate:
Give credit to others, even when you don’t have to.
If your boss thanks you for a job well done, make sure to give credit to the entire team. Acknowledge the praise and your part in it, but always give credit to everyone involved. You’ll make a good impression on your co-workers and your boss.
Own your mistakes and accept critical feedback.
If someone points out where you’ve made a mistake, take responsibility and make changes as soon as possible. You should also be able to handle critique of your work in general, especially from your manager or supervisor. Most times, managers offer critique to help you improve and do better. If you're willing to own your mistakes and accept critique, you'll continually improve and show your coworkers that you take pride in your work.
Speak highly of your teammates when they’re not around.
Gossip is a workplace environment killer. To be likable at work, make sure to speak positively about your coworkers, even the ones who are not present. Not only does this demonstrate your strong, moral character, but it instills a sense of trust with your other teammates. If you have a legitimate concern about a co-worker’s behavior, talk to them directly or take it to your supervisor. Just keep yourself from spreading the issue around to everyone you work with.
Find a balance between being sociable and hard-working.
No one likes the slacker in the group; that co-worker who is too busy chatting to accomplish anything. However, you don’t want to be all work and no play. It's important to engage with your coworkers and build relationships, but to also work hard. To be likable at work, find a balance between accomplishing the team’s goals and having a great time while doing so.
Be comfortable with your quirks.
Everyone has little nuances in their personality that make them unique. Express those traits openly, and don’t be afraid to let them show as some of your greatest strengths. Highlighting your unique skillset to the team can help to accomplish your goals. It can also give your coworkers an idea of who you are and make you seem authentic and open.
Give compliments.
Whether it’s work-related or personal, be genuinely interested in the work your team members are doing. A little appreciation goes a long way – whether it’s noticing a teammate’s excellent work or simply telling them how much you enjoy working with them.
Listen.
It’s no secret that people like to talk about themselves. Show you’re a good listener by asking questions and listening to the answers so that you can learn more about the people you work with. Having a good connection with your coworkers can strengthen your work environment and make it more enjoyable to accomplish your common goal.
You never want to compromise yourself or your values, but it's also important to be aware of the needs of the people working around you. With these tips, you can be well on your way to making yourself likable in the workplace