I have worked at many places in the past 13 years. Wow! I cannot believe I just typed 13 years! So weird to look at!!
Not to jinx it, but I don't think I have been any happier with my peers. Not that they are all great, but majority rules and majority of my co-workers at this job are great! I have been with this company for a year now and it took guts to leave the restaurant business! I was married to restaurant management and catering for 12 years. Well, I am still in love, you may say :)
I am currently an office manager and loving it. So lets get back to those peers. They are surprisingly a younger crowd than I am, but it certainly doesn't feel like it. Here is what I think makes great people to work with:
1. Lend a hand
No matter how insignificant you may think it is, do it anyways. Hold that door open, pick up that pen on the floor, ask if you can help in any way. Trust me, it will make YOU feel better as well. Just try it. Then let me know how it went :)
2. Talk about resolution rather than just complaining
Even if you are not at fault, try to look for a solution. It will save you the headache of making the same mistake twice. But be nice when you approach someone and be honest. Tell them why you are feeling the way your are. Make them see your point of view. Then come up with a solution as a team.
3. DO NOT TAKE IT PERSONAL - this one is a big one for me, it has helped me so much, and trust me, I would get angry at people to where I turned red!
Believe me when I say IT IS SO IMPORTANT NOT TO TAKE ANYTHING PERSONAL. No two people ever think exactly the same. Rather than taking it personal and acting angry, take the moment to listen to the other person and truly understand where they are coming from. It doesn't necessarily mean that you agree with what is being said, it just means that you have a calm and professional way of dealing with issues, suggestions and constructive criticisms.
Of course, there is more than just the lending a hand, talking about a resolution and not taking it personal. However, I do not want to bore anyone. Let's start with these three ways where anyone can be a great co-worker and take it a little at a time.
I am always open to suggestions! Feel free to add your thoughts!
