Every day, you show up to work ready to tackle your to-do list and share your ideas during team meetings. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might not be as well-liked as you hope. Etiquette experts suggest that evaluating your workplace habits could be the key to improving your likability among coworkers.
Etiquette expert Rosalinda Randall explains that being aware of your habits can shed light on why coworkers may avoid sitting next to you in meetings or inviting you to social gatherings. It can be uncomfortable to receive criticism about your behavior, but taking a moment to reflect on it can ultimately benefit your relationships in the workplace.
It’s important to recognize that behaviors affecting your likability are not meant to shame you. Oftentimes, you may not even realize that your actions are rubbing others the wrong way. As Kristi Spencer, founder of The Polite Company, notes, stress and changing work environments can cause us to lose sight of those around us, creating a negative cycle.
Etiquette experts emphasize the importance of workplace civility and self-awareness in improving relationships with coworkers. They share nine common behaviors that can make you instantly unlikable at work, along with suggestions for how to adjust these habits.
One behavior to avoid is neglecting to say hello and goodbye to coworkers. This simple gesture of acknowledgment can make a big difference in how others perceive you in the office. Similarly, continuing to work while someone is speaking to you can come across as dismissive and cold, hindering effective communication.
Complaining excessively, talking loudly, and engaging in public displays of personal hygiene are also behaviors that can negatively impact your likability at work. By being mindful of how your actions affect those around you, you can work towards creating a more positive and supportive work environment.
Ultimately, it’s about building awareness of your habits and making small changes to improve your interactions with coworkers. By focusing on fostering positive relationships and demonstrating respect for others, you can enhance your likability at work and contribute to a more harmonious workplace culture.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.