I’m not trying to be a mercenary here, just to acquaint you with a fundamental rule of human relationships. Here it is:
People are primarily interested in themselves, not in you.
You too. When you see a family picture, whose face do you look at first? When you see a list that may include your name, where do your eyes immediately go? Get my point? So, if you want people to like you, start thinking about them, not you and practice these two simple habits:
Slow down when you’re walking through your workplace.
Yes I know you’re busy and have a lot on your mind. But once/day, walk across the office/shop/clinic/store/restaurant and check in with people. Walk slowly. Show interest in teammates and ask how they’re doing. Do a quick temperature check with everyone. 10 minutes out of your day. People don’t care how much you know until they believe that you care. When you rush around all day, others assume you’re only interested in your agenda, not in theirs.
In every conversation you’re in, find some way to encourage the person you’re talking with
This means genuine encouragement. Something small, but sincere. Are they doing good work, or making progress? Is their desk orderly? Did they accomplish something recently? Did one of their kids achieve a milestone? Did they finally take a shower? (ok maybe not that one). This isn’t hard, and it’s a habit you should develop.
Remember that the #1 factor in employee satisfaction (by a country mile) is the quality of their relationship with their direct supervisor. If employees feel seen and appreciated, they’re happy. If they don’t, they’re at flight risk.
Try these two simple things and if it doesn’t make a difference, please write and let me know. Getting ahead is about getting started!
