My practical guide to building strong work relationships (Even if you hate networking lunches!)

Let me be honest, forced socializing feels draining for me, and networking lunches are no exception. Here I am, perfectly content in my world, and suddenly I'm expected to engage in small talk with a stranger about, well, anything? I, for one, much prefer deep dives and thoughtful conversations.?

But here's the surprising thing: despite my preference for smaller circles, I'm actually pretty good at building strong, lasting relationships at work. (Those who know me can validate it ??)

The secret? Focusing on quality connections over quantity. Here's my guide to building genuine connections with colleagues:

The 5 Levels of building quality work relationships

Level 1: Empathy - Seeing things from their side

We've all been there: a colleague seems stressed, maybe disagreeing with everything that you say. Instead of getting annoyed, I try to see things from their perspective. Is a deadline looming? Is anything wrong with their personal life? A little empathy goes a long way. By understanding and acknowledging where they're coming from, I can avoid conflict and focus on solutions.

Level 2: The power of appreciation

A simple "good job" can brighten someone's day! Did your colleague deliver a good project? I take time to appreciate and am so satisfied to hear their responses like “you made my day”. No matter how small the achievement, genuine appreciation creates a positive and supportive work environment.?

Level 3: Listening, not just wanting to talk

This is where my natural tendency comes in handy. I keep the phone down, make eye contact, and truly listen to what the other person is saying. I ask questions and am genuinely interested in the conversation. Many times, I learn something new! Plus, when I share my own stories on topics I care about, it builds a better understanding between us.

Level 4: Offering a helping hand (Without being asked)

Support can be anything from lending an ear to offering a helpful tip or a pep talk to show genuine care when they are in need.

Level 5: Keeping promises

This one's simple and most effective: Being on time, returning emails promptly, responding to meeting invitations, and following through on commitments builds trust, the most important part of any relationship.

Building lasting bonds at work: It's all about connection!

Do I build good relationships with everyone I meet? Not necessarily. Work is full of diverse personalities, and finding those who truly resonate with you can create a much more fulfilling experience. Over time, I've learned to focus on cultivating win-win relationships built on trust and mutual respect. It's these genuine connections that make work more enjoyable.