Connect With Co-Workers—It Pays!

Q. It bothers me when I see people around me “schmoozing” with each other. I like my privacy and staying focused on tasks. Doesn’t talking with each other about non-business topics slow down productivity? —Ted B.

A. Maybe; it depends on how much non-business chatting is going on. Clearly, if people aren’t meeting their goals, but they seem to have plenty of time for “schmoozing,” there’s probably an organizational problem. But building valuable connections with those we work with not only makes the work more interesting; it often helps people work more effectively, because they’re more easily linked to important resources in the company

Some people—such as those in research—work best alone, where they have time to think and analyze problems with a minimum of interruptions. But most of us do better when we connect well with our co-workers. You may want to take a look at the value of your working alone and compare it with the value others get out of working closely with each other. Your supervisor can probably give you some good insights into whether you’re better off making more connections with peers, or working by yourself.

Today, more and more companies want their people working in teams—and

connecting with other teams. The so-called “silo” approach—where people stay by themselves (in their own “silos”) or focus their energy primarily on their own departmental interests, is often a problem in building synergy within an organization.

Look for Opportunities

From a long-term career standpoint, you’re probably better off by spending a little more time networking—building connections with those you work with. There are opportunities all around you, once you decide that this is a good thing to do. Some suggestions:

Show your appreciation.

Let people know you value their work when it affects you. No one ever gets enough “Thank you’s.” Watch the reaction when you say “Thank you” or take time to share a few words with the person in the copy center; the mail delivery person; the maintenance person; the receptionist.

Compliment people.

When employees have done something special, let them know it, and compliment them on their work. It’s rare when someone you compliment doesn’t appreciate it.

Spend a few extra minutes in the coffee room.

Taking the time to share a friendly moment with someone while you’re getting some coffee or a snack can make your day more enjoyable. And it may even pay off in your learning valuable information you wouldn’t get otherwise.

Send cards and notes.

When you hear that someone is out sick, or is having a birthday, anniversary or a promotion, send a short note offering good wishes. This may be a little strange if you’ve been working pretty much by yourself, so start slowly until you get comfortable with it.

Go to seminars and workshops.

These are great opportunities to find out what other people are doing—and to make friends. Try to make at least one new acquaintance each time.

Write a memo.

Share something that might help someone else in the department —perhaps offering to explain a process that’s familiar to you, but they’re struggling with.

Attend department social gatherings.

These provide great ways to network. Act enthusiastic, and go out of your way to strike up a conversation with someone you don’t know very well.

Join a team or group.

If your company has a sports team, join it and enjoy the fun; let yourself be seen as a positive, friendly person to be around.

Suggest ideas.

Take advantage of the organization's suggestion system without being a nuisance. Look for ways to improve everyday operations.

Make friends with the receptionist.

This person can often help you locate a resource you might need, and is often a focal point for what’s happening in the company. Receptionists are in a great position to say good things about you, too.