Good colleagues make for a good working environment, and we all know how important a good working environment is for your well-being at work. Here are some tips on how you can become a better colleague and help create a slightly better working environment.
What makes a good colleague? The answer may vary from person to person. For some, it is someone who responds quickly to inquiries, while for others it may be someone who does not steal their lunch from the fridge. It is probably easier for us to agree on what makes a bad colleague. Nevertheless, we can list a few points that are guaranteed to make you a better and more well-liked colleague.
Read also: Dos & don'ts in the workplace
Say hello when you see your colleagues
When you meet your colleagues in the hallway or on your way to the cafeteria or kitchen, say hello to them. Saying “hello” or “good morning” is both an inclusive and kind gesture that your colleagues will surely appreciate.
Don't let a bad mood rub off on others
Good teamwork in the workplace is important for the entire work environment. No one expects you to be in a great mood all the time, but the same goes for bad moods. Being around people who are in a bad mood is exhausting for most people and can also affect both well-being and performance. Keeping your spirits up and staying positive is therefore very important for the atmosphere of the entire team. If it is completely impossible to keep your spirits up, just say that you are having a bad day and are not the best version of yourself.
Be inclusive and a good team player
A team player always has the best interests of their team and the company at heart, and offers support and help when a colleague has a lot to do. If a colleague has done something well, it is important to praise them to acknowledge their performance. If a colleague has done something less well, it is important that you offer constructive criticism on how they can perform better, so that it is easier to stay motivated.
Live by the company's values
Every single employee is a good ambassador for the company's brand. The best colleagues also live up to the company's values. If you don't, and perhaps don't recognize the company's values, you may be in the wrong workplace.
Read also: Create a developing mindset
Stay home when you are sick
Many people go to work even when they are sick. Not only does this cause you to perform worse than usual, but it will also take even longer to recover when you don't get any rest. You also risk infecting your colleagues. If it is important that you are at work to complete a specific task, it is better to work from home, perhaps just for a few hours a day. As they say, it is better to stay in one day too many than one day too few.