Taking the lead on a project that matches your skillset Politely correcting a co-worker when they share incorrect information Bringing an idea to your boss or manager
Ask a superior for advice on how to handle a tough project Say “no” to new commitments if you already have a full schedule Ask a tech-savvy co-worker to walk you through a feature in Photoshop
Waiting for your turn to speak Offering a helping hand Apologizing if you mess up during a project Thanking someone for their time[5] X Research source
Practice active listening skills Sit or stand with a relaxed, open posture Compliment someone on a job well done[7] X Research source
“I appreciate all the hard work you put into this draft. Would you mind giving it another read-through for small errors and typos?” “Your eye contact felt a bit spotty during the presentation. I totally get where you’re coming from–I find that it helps to look at different people when I’m speaking to a crowd. ”
If you’d really like to go the extra mile, enroll in a class or degree program that’s related to your career path. You might practice using a difficult piece of software over the weekend so you feel more comfortable with it during the workweek.
“I completely underestimated how long that task was going to take. I’m so sorry for making you wait!” “I’m really sorry, guys. This one’s on me. ” “I take full responsibility for what happened here. You have every right to be upset. ”
“I’m hoping to finish this assignment by the end of the week. ” “It would be great if we could submit this project by next Wednesday. ” “I know that we can get this done by the deadline. ” Make sure that your goals are still manageable, though! Always be honest with yourself about what you’re able to complete in a given timeframe. [12] X Expert Source Jennifer Guttman, PsyDLicensed Clinical Psychologist Expert Interview. 26 July 2021.
For example, don’t offer to proofread one co-worker’s writing but refuse to help another. Instead, wait until you have enough time to help multiple people at once. Don’t tell one co-worker about a cool new work opportunity but leave your other, equally-qualified teammate in the dark.
For instance, you might finish your assignment for a group project several days before the deadline instead of waiting until the last second.
Enjoying your job actually helps you get more satisfaction in the long run. Try breaking down tasks into manageable chunks, and then completing each manageable chunk before moving onto the next one. [18] X Expert Source Jennifer Guttman, PsyDLicensed Clinical Psychologist Expert Interview. 26 July 2021. This might help you feel more productive and in-the-zone during the workday!
“It stinks that we didn’t meet our monthly goal, but now we’re ahead of the game for the next month!” “We might not have made as much money as we hoped, but now we can make a more targeted marketing strategy toward our customers. ”
“That’s a fantastic idea, Jenn. I really think you should bring that up at the next team meeting!” “I love that idea, Markus. How about you give it a try for a week or so and let me know how things are going?”
Share a funny pun or corny joke with a peer Wear your favorite outfit to work, even if it isn’t super stylish