What are the best ways to build professional relationships with your coworkers?

1 Communicate clearly and respectfully

Communication is the foundation of any relationship, and it's especially important in merchandising. You need to communicate your ideas, feedback, and expectations clearly and respectfully to your coworkers. Avoid jargon, slang, or vague terms that might cause confusion or misunderstanding. Listen actively and attentively to what your coworkers have to say, and acknowledge their points of view. Use positive and constructive language, and avoid criticism, blame, or gossip.

2 Show appreciation and recognition

Everyone likes to feel valued and appreciated for their work, and your coworkers are no exception. Show your appreciation and recognition for their contributions, achievements, and efforts. You can do this by giving sincere compliments, sending thank-you notes, or celebrating milestones. You can also show your appreciation by offering help, support, or feedback when needed. By showing appreciation and recognition, you can boost your coworkers' morale, motivation, and loyalty.

3 Be reliable and trustworthy

Trust is another key element of building professional relationships with your coworkers. You need to show that you are reliable and trustworthy, and that you can deliver on your promises and commitments. You can do this by meeting deadlines, following through on tasks, and being accountable for your actions. You can also show your trustworthiness by being honest, transparent, and ethical in your dealings with your coworkers. Avoid lying, hiding, or withholding information that might affect them.

4 Find common interests and values

One of the best ways to build professional relationships with your coworkers is to find common interests and values that you can bond over. You can do this by engaging in casual conversations, joining social events, or participating in team-building activities. You can also share your hobbies, passions, or goals with your coworkers, and learn more about theirs. By finding common interests and values, you can create rapport, friendship, and respect with your coworkers.

5 Respect boundaries and differences

While it's good to find common interests and values with your coworkers, you also need to respect their boundaries and differences. You need to understand that everyone has their own preferences, styles, and personalities, and that they might not always agree with you or work the same way as you. You need to respect their privacy, space, and time, and avoid imposing your views or expectations on them. You also need to be open-minded, tolerant, and flexible when dealing with different opinions, perspectives, and approaches.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?