Doing your job is only part of your job. The rest boils down to being seen, heard and known – none of which would be possible without a strong relationship. But hybrid offices make building relationships more awkward than ever. In this article, the author offers helpful advice on how to spark conversations in the office — and how to build on those conversations when you see the same person again. As he writes, “Breaking the silence is the hardest step because it’s the most prone to overthinking: Am I disturbing this person? A voice in our head asks. What would this person think of me? Another voice wonder. What did I even say? A third voice added. Soon after, doubts floated Out of the water, opportunity slips away. The easier it is for us to break the silence, the more likely we are to do so. The good news is that the opportunity to turn strangers into adults is all around us, all the time.”
STEP #1: Break the silence
This is the hardest step because it is the most prone to overthinking: Am I bothering this person? asked a voice in our heads. What would this person think of me? Another sonic wonder. What did I even say? A third voice added. Before long, doubts surfaced and opportunities slipped away. The easier it is for us to break the silence, the more likely we are to do so. The good news is that the opportunity to turn strangers into adults is all around us, all the time.
- On a computer with “Hotel” or “Desk Rounding” mode Office work, where employees can choose where they sit? Try to place yourself near high-traffic areas such as entrances, meeting rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms. Doing this makes it easier for you to meet people, make eye contact, nod, smile, say “hi” or “good morning,” and that’s where a relationship starts.
Invited to a conference, town hall, happy hour or event? Try showing up a minute early, stand or sit next to a stranger who doesn’t seem busy, make eye contact, extend a hand, and say, “Hey, I don’t think we’ve met. I’m _______. Nice to meet you!”
Just finished the meeting? Overcome the urge to rush out immediately and instead approach someone and drop “I am _______” followed by “Like your comment on _______.”
- On a business trip? Try asking, “Would anyone like to carpool?” and use the carpool time to spark conversations.
Is there some preparation time before entering the office? Try messaging a colleague you only know online and say, “I’ll be in the office tomorrow. If you’re around, I’d love to add a face to the name!”
These opportunities are not just strategies for introverts or shy people. They are the secrets of the most effective relationship builders. Look around before your next meeting, and you’ll quickly realize that, for example, while some people are engrossed in their phones, it’s also when others start building relationships.
Step #2: Change “Hi” to “Hi again”.
It’s always uncomfortable to do anything for the first time. The second time is always easier. If you say “hi” to a stranger, you’ve gotten over the most embarrassing step—and allow yourself to say “hi” again. This is your chance to turn acquaintances into allies.
- Did you go back to your computer? Consider sending an email that reads: “Thanks for the interesting conversation. Loved we all ___. Looking forward to crossing again and hopefully working together soon.” Saw them in the hallway again? Smile and say “Hi again!” Then follow up on anything you discuss, whether it’s “Wedding How’s it going?” or “How’s the presentation going?”
in See them in a group call? Message them with “Nice to see you again,” or send them an encouraging DM if they’re confused about their words.
Encountered information that might be relevant to them? Retweet a website, email, podcast, video, article or white paper with “I just saw this and was reminded of our conversation about _______.”
Know two people who can help each other? By saying: ” Have you ever seen _______? She is also ___. Let me know if the chat helps and I can ask her if she’s interested. ”
Step 3: Change “Hi again” to “Let’s chat”.
You Most of the people you meet professionally will be acquaintances. It’s only natural. After all, we only have so many hours in a day and so many relationships at a time. But when we meet a few steps ahead of us and When there is a special minority eager to pay the price, we have the opportunity to learn from their mistakes and avoid their mistakes. Here are four options for turning allies into mentors:
Not sure which way to go? Try soliciting their Suggestion , saying, “I’m trying to _______ and would like your suggestion for _______. Can you have a few minutes to chat? ” Interested in following in their footsteps? Try asking their Story , saying: “I would love to follow in your footsteps because _______. Can you have a few minutes to chat? I am free at the following times…”
engaged in a Project expertise where interests and interests overlap? Try asking about their involvement , saying, “I’m hiring a consultant to guide the direction of _______. I immediately thought of you. ”
Step 4: Change “Let’s Chat” to “Let’s Build Relationship”.
Step 4: Change “Let’s Chat” to “Let’s Build Relationship”.
Some of the people you will meet will become “mentors” who offer advice. Others will become “sponsors” who open doors. This person has the power to invite you to closed-door meetings, pull you into high-profile projects, or even provide Your promotion preaches. Know a veteran who seems invested in you and your career?
- In the process, try to share some of your struggles and . For example, “I am reflecting on _______ and feel that I could have done better with _______. Am I thinking about this the right way, or if you were in my position, what would you do differently? “
- First, try to share your goals . For example, “When I think about who I want to be in five years, I Would love to follow in your footsteps and _______. What advice do you have on what I should start, stop, and continue to do to get there? ”
Next, try to share your progress . For example, “I just did a performance review and wanted to let you know that it ended up being accurate about what we predicted and discussed. My manager told me _______. Next quarter, I plan to _________. No reply – I just wanted to keep you updated and thank you for your _______. ”
