You don’t need to be a people-pleaser or win any popularity contests for your colleagues to like you.
Being the kind of person everyone likes working with tends to come down to how reliable you are, the rapport you develop with people, and the general vibe you bring to the office (or wherever your job happens to take place). Whether you’re a new hire or you just want to create better relationships with the people you spend a good chunk of your time with every week, here’s how to become a bit more popular with the other people on the payroll.
1. Greet everyone with a smile.
Starting the day with a warm greeting sets a positive tone. A simple “Good morning” or a friendly smile when you walk in can brighten someone’s day. It’s a small gesture that shows you’re approachable and open, making colleagues more likely to enjoy your presence.
2. Offer to help when you can.
Being the person who’s willing to lend a hand when someone is swamped or struggling instantly makes you a team favourite. Whether it’s helping with a deadline or sharing your expertise, your generosity creates goodwill and strengthens workplace bonds.
3. Be dependable.
Reliability is one of the most respected traits in any workplace. When you consistently meet deadlines, follow through on promises, and show up prepared, people know they can count on you. Trust builds respect and makes you someone others want to work with.
4. Show genuine interest in your coworkers.
Take the time to get to know your colleagues on a personal level. Ask about their weekend plans, celebrate their achievements, and remember the little details they share. Genuine interest makes people feel valued and creates stronger connections.
5. Be a good listener.
Everyone appreciates someone who truly listens. Pay attention during conversations without interrupting or thinking about your response. Being present and engaged shows respect and makes people feel heard, which builds trust and likeability.
6. Give credit where it’s due.
If someone’s idea helped a project succeed, or they went the extra mile, acknowledge it. Saying, “Great job on that presentation,” or giving a shout-out in a meeting, boosts morale and shows you’re not afraid to share the spotlight.
7. Keep the workplace positive.
Avoid gossip, negativity, and constant complaints—they can quickly make you a source of tension. Instead, focus on creating a positive vibe. Offer encouragement, crack a bit of banter when appropriate, and try to bring solutions rather than just pointing out problems.
8. Be adaptable and open-minded.
Workplaces are full of unexpected changes, and being someone who adapts easily makes you a valued team member. Stay open to new ideas, be willing to try different approaches, and show flexibility when plans shift. People gravitate toward those who handle challenges with grace.
9. Share your knowledge without being overbearing.
If you have expertise in a certain area, don’t hesitate to share it when it’s helpful—but avoid coming across as a know-it-all. Offer advice humbly, and make it clear you’re there to support, not to lecture. Being a go-to resource is a great way to build respect and camaraderie.
10. Be consistent in your mood and attitude.
No one likes working with someone whose mood is unpredictable. Strive to maintain a steady, positive attitude, even on tough days. Being a calming, reliable presence makes people feel more comfortable and drawn to you.
11. Take part in social events.
Whether it’s after-work drinks, team lunches, or a quick coffee break, participating in social activities helps build relationships outside of formal work settings. Even if you’re not the most outgoing person, showing up and being present makes a big difference in how connected you feel to your coworkers.
12. Stay professional and respectful.
Source: Unsplash While it’s great to be friendly, professionalism is key to maintaining respect at work. Treat everyone with courtesy, avoid office politics, and handle disagreements calmly. Balancing approachability with professionalism ensures you’re both liked and respected.
13. Be proactive about resolving conflicts.
Source: Unsplash Instead of letting misunderstandings fester, address issues early and diplomatically. A quick, honest conversation can clear the air and show that you care about maintaining a healthy team dynamic. Being a problem-solver makes you stand out as someone everyone can rely on.
14. Be genuinely pleased when your colleagues succeed.
When someone gets a promotion, hits a milestone, or accomplishes something great, take the time to celebrate them. A heartfelt congratulations or a group acknowledgment goes a long way in creating a positive vibe and showing you’re supportive of your team.
