Have a Happy “Family” at Work

Your co-workers aren’t your family, but the same rules that ensure a warm relationship with family members can apply to the workplace. Here are some guidelines for communication and respect that will create a positive atmosphere at work:

Respect boundaries. Understand that people have their own concepts of personal space and privacy. Just as you wouldn’t go into your sister’s room without her permission, don’t assume you can open someone’s desk to look for a pen or a piece of candy. Stay out of your colleagues’ personal lives, and don’t share too much of your own.
Keep promises. Family members and co-workers both want to know they can depend on you. Don’t make commitments you can’t keep. If something prevents you from doing what you’ve said you will do, be honest and explain it at once. And do everything reasonable to live up to the promises you make. You’ll build a reputation for trustworthiness that will aid your career.
Don’t waste people’s time. We’re all busy with our jobs or our chores. Although a certain amount of informal chatting helps build and maintain a friendly atmosphere, don’t overdo it, and don’t let your co-workers waste your time on irrelevant discussions. Keep an eye on your priorities, and other people’s, so everyone can concentrate on getting work done.
Pay attention to people. No one likes to be ignored, whether it’s by your father reading the paper while you’re trying to talk about your day or by a co-worker checking his or her BlackBerry during a meeting. Give people your full attention when they’re speaking to you. Eliminate distractions. This shows you respect their time and intelligence.