How to Build Relationships at Work (That Work!!)

Unless you’re a lone wolf, such as a programmer, you likely can’t get anything done without talking to at least one other person. Even for a programmer, at some point you will need to talk to someone in order to accomplish your task. This is something that everyone with experience can agree upon, especially those higher in the ranks. Any boss whose main goal is the success of his or her company knows that in order for things to work together well, the people doing the work must first have some sort of professional relationship.

This is most simply accomplished using an acronym called FORM. FORM outlines the steps you take in order to build rapport and trust with another human, in this case a coworker. The steps are as follows: Family, Occupations (which I’ve replaced with Education and Work History for obvious reasons), Recreation and, lastly, Message. Message comes in to play a bit later. It’s really quite simple, you ask about the person’s Family, i.e. where they are from, if they’ve got any children, etc. Then, ask about their Education and Work History, depending, mostly, upon their age. And finally, ask about what they like to do for fun. These steps come from the idea that nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care.

Your Message, the last letter in FORM, is synonymous with what you need from that person. If you are that persons superior, then you are likely asking them to do something. If you are an equal or subordinate, then you are likely asking for a favor or for approval. Either way, showing that person that you care about them, will help that utilitarian aspect of the relationship run more smoothly.

 

Written By David Rodriguez

Creating a Unit: Team Building 101

The workplace can be a busy, stressful place that can really take a toll on you and the others around you. That’s why it is important to take a step back and connect with your co-workers on multiple levels. Chances are they are going through the same things as you. In order for everyone to accomplish their goals you have to have full clarity throughout the entire team.

Get to know your teammates.

When you are taking that 15-minute break to get up and stretch your legs, initiate some dialogue with one of your team members that you don’t know very well. Ask questions about that picture on their desk, what they have planned for the weekend or even just how they are feeling today. You will be surprised in your next meeting how much more comfortable that person is with you and how you are with them. If your workplace has a designated break room, don’t sit in silence as you stare off into space. Strike up a conversation! (Just don’t be late getting back to work!)

Establish open communication in team meetings.

Everyone needs to feel comfortable in their own skin. Establishing open communication in your meetings will allow for a calm air and increased productivity. No one’s ideas or questions should ever be put down or thrown away, and always praise your teammate for chiming in while encouraging others to do the same. People get nervous and hesitant when it comes to asking questions for fear of seeming unintelligent. Encouraging questions will sustain a positive relationship and decrease project errors. If you have some shy talkers (or non-talkers) in the group, encourage them to talk by giving an award like candy, gift certificates or anything that will make them feel special for speaking up. Another rule you may want to use is the “speech ball,” when a team member wants to share an idea or explain a motion he or she holds the “speech ball,” allowing that person to speak freely without interruptions. 

Problem Solving

Conflicts are bound to arise no matter what we do to prevent them. People have a tendency to be stuck in their ways or on their own ideas. Frame each conflict openly and allow people to explain their side and use it as an example to compromise. Let the team offer suggestions for the debate while carefully interjecting where needed to ensure no one feels bullied or ganged up on. If you have a strong person that always feels the need to trump another’s thoughts, speak to that person privately about using their talents to encourage others to grow.  We all know, “There is no ‘I’ in TEAM.” If things get heated, everyone should be allowed a timeout pass. This gives a teammate an out when they feel overwhelmed and need a break so they can return to the meeting calm, clear headed and ready to continue.

Using these techniques to help strengthen your team will yield amazing results and respect for one another. They will encourage efficiency, creativity and productivity while decreasing conflict. There are also many companies that provide day-out teambuilding events, which can bring a group together in ways that an office environment just can’t do. These are great to do once a quarter. Experiment with what works best for your group and make your company come together like the family it is!

Contributing Writer: Heather Harrington