7 ways to build strong relationships at work

It goes without saying that the better our relationships at work, the happier, more engaged and productive we are likely to be. Instead of focusing our energy on dealing with the problems that come with negative relationships, we can channel that energy more positively, allowing us to be more creative and giving us the freedom to focus on opportunities.

How to build strong, positive relationships in the workplace

1. Open and honest communication

All good relationships rely on honest and open communication. We communicate in many ways: face to face, by phone, through emails and messages, and it is important to consider how we communicate.

Take time to consider the outcome you want from your communication and use clear, precise language to reduce the risk of misunderstanding. The better and more effectively we communicate with those we work with, the stronger our working relationships are likely to become.

2. Show appreciation

Genuinely show your appreciation when others help you, whether it is a colleague who has supported you on a difficult project or the junior colleague who has made you a cup of coffee.

Everyone likes appreciation and wants to feel that they are making a worthwhile contribution. A little genuine praise can go a long way towards developing positive working relationships.

3. Active listening

Take the time to really listen to your colleagues and clients and notice how people respond to you in return.

Active listening is a skill worth consciously developing because it can help you build trust and strengthen relationships.

4. Be positive

People generally enjoy being around positive people.

Positivity can be contagious, and people are often drawn to those who demonstrate optimism and encouragement. It creates energy and can strengthen relationships with colleagues and clients alike.

5. Develop your people skills

Think about your strengths and weaknesses when it comes to your people skills.

Be honest and consider which areas you would benefit from developing.

Where possible, make time to speak to colleagues face to face each day, even if it's only for five minutes. Keep building relationships and show a genuine interest in the people around you.

6. Be clear about your needs

Understand what you need from your colleagues and also think about what they need from you.

It sounds like common sense, but it's worth taking the time to consider.

Communicating these needs can simplify and strengthen relationships while reducing misunderstandings. It can also help you progress your career if you are clear about your intentions and aspirations.

7. Show respect

Respecting the people you work with means valuing their views and ideas.

This encourages effective and creative working relationships that benefit everyone involved.

It also makes it easier to welcome different opinions and genuinely consider what others have to say.

Strong relationships benefit everyone

For a successful career, it's important to build positive, healthy relationships with your colleagues, clients and other stakeholders.

Take some time to reflect on your working relationships and consider how you can strengthen them. The more you invest in building positive relationships, the more likely you are to benefit from greater engagement, stronger collaboration and new opportunities throughout your career.