5 ways to turn colleagues into friends

It can be nerve racking starting at a new company, new policies to adhere to, names to remember and people to impress. This is where you’ll be spending most of your week so it helps to get on with those you are surrounded by and here’s how.

1. Be the drink maker

The designated beverage provider is always highly favoured by fellow employees because they are saving them a couple of metres of walking. No matter how busy your work day is, you should always make time to whip up a round of tea and coffee for your new colleagues. But don’t become a slave to your new friends, unless your job is in fact to do just that.

2. Bring in treats

Everyone loves the treat giver in the office. You are immediately likable if you bake or buy goodies for all to share. You will find that most of your colleagues have a sweet tooth and if not, will be grateful at least for the gesture.

3. Be interested and interesting

You have one mouth and two ears for a reason, so listen and listen well to those around you. Input where necessary, but mainly find out what they are interested in. Once you know this, the rest is easy. All you have to do then is remember each colleague’s story, and occasionally ask about it. We all like it when someone has made an effort.

Whilst you shouldn’t reveal too much about your personal life, bring up the interesting points about your life. Dress your desk with an array of interesting items that will strike an engaging conversation.

4. Attend social events

This is an important part of making friends. By attending out of office events, you show your colleagues that you are interested in spending time with them, even when you are not getting paid to do so. The event may not be your cup of tea, but always go along when invited.

5.  Be positive

No one likes a complainer. Not only will complaining constantly put you more at risk of losing your job, but will certainly not help you make friends. Be happy, smile and radiate positivity and people will want to be around you.

These could be friends you keep for life, so whilst being yourself, be happy, social, interesting, generous and go the extra mile for your colleagues.