How To Interact With People At Work Using 3 Simple Tips
By Michael Lee

There is a certain level of professionalism expected of you when learning how to interact with people at work. However, being as stiff as a board is not exactly what you should go for, as it might brand you as an outcast in the office. How do you find the balance?

Learn more about how to interact with people at work.

Tip # 1: Acknowledge Your Co-workers.

Despite any differences in station, you must not ignore your co-workers completely. Learn their names and familiarize yourself with their personalities.

If you want to know how to interact with people at work, treat them with respect. Greet them as you enter the room or say goodbye when you’re about to leave. Practicing good manners is not rocket science.

Tip # 2: Stick To Safe Topics.

Try to avoid getting into subjects that are way too deep for normal office discussion. Talk about the upcoming review with the board, the weather forecast that might keep you from getting to work on time, or even the new movie you’re going to see when the weekend comes along.

Don’t talk about politics, religion, romance, relationships and any other topic that could leave a strong emotional impact among your peers. Once you find yourself bordering on risky territory, make a hasty exit. Better to appear boring than to get stuck in a conversation you don’t ever want to have.

However, you may of course talk about anything that both you and your co-worker have in common and strongly agree with, since that builds rapport and likeability with each other.

Tip # 3: Choose Your Battles.

Don’t say yes to every invite after office hours. Drinking, dancing or letting loose all the time can lead to all sorts of situations that you don’t want to face come Monday morning.

Going out with your work friends once in a while is okay; but if you want to know how to interact with people at work, keep in mind that whatever you and the rest of the seventh floor gang get up to will still be there when you go to work the next day.

Despite what they say, your actions on the dance floor and your decision to get as drunk as you want will definitely have an effect on how your co-workers perceive you and your work.

If you want to know how to interact with people at work, just remember these three important tips. Make friends and solidify relationships, but learn to keep a safe distance as well.

The people who you work with are not always friendship material. Avoid making mistakes and make the relationship clear from the very beginning.