Article

Here at JobAlly, we believe in the importance of forming alliances to build winning relationships at work. Rather than simply seeing our subordinates, superiors and business stakeholders as colleagues (or sometimes enemies), we advocate treating them as allies, working in alignment to achieve the company’s goals.

How can we build the foundations for alliances in the workplace? These 4 simple steps will pave the way.

#1 – Use effective engagement to build positive relationships

Positive relationships are the heart of every successful team, and engaging your teammates continues to be a simple but effective key to unlocking lasting positive relationships. Besides discussing workplace issues, a simple chitchat over a short break, or a quick catch-up during lunch helps set the foundation for a positive relationship. Aim to take ownership in your office and build on these alliances through effective engagement.

#2 – Effective Communication with superiors.

Are we afraid of our superiors? Do we avoid their gaze when we pass by them in the lift lobby? Perhaps we find the furthest seat away from them on our lunch break in the canteen? As subordinates, we should be confident, but respectful when sharing our ideas and concerns with our superiors. This way, we are able to showcase our ability to identify, analyze, and solve problems, and get any pressing issues we have off our mind.

#3 – Effective Communication with team members.

As superiors, should encourage the same open communication we would have expected from our superiors. We should always remember to be attentive and tactful in our responses, creating a safe environment for our team members confide in us as the way we react could make or break a potential alliance.

#4 – The Golden Rule (Teammate Equality).

In spite of the formal hierarchies that exist within organizations, it is important to treat our team members as equal partners and associates performing different functions, but working together in unison to achieve the team’s or company’s goals.

To re-cap, effective communication and engagement brings about the formation of positive relationships, and takes place when there is a two-way exchange of thoughts and feelings. It is an important cycle of attentive listening and taking tactful actions.

Practicing the above tips in our workplaces facilitates the formation of strong alliances which we believe translates to the development of happy and successful teams.