Whether it’s a power player or someone starting out on the fast track, alliances with others are the way to get ahead. Aim to make as many new connections as possible. Check out these tips for building lasting relationships.
Take a real interest
Get to know your colleagues and the work they’re doing. Showing you care can win them over. What can you offer them? Think give. What you put out usually comes back to you in the long run.
Acknowledge good work
Whether you’re a team leader or member, let people know when your group succeeded. If someone’s work was particularly noteworthy, share that with others. Give credit where credit is due, but don’t sell yourself short. People respect confidence, and by claiming your accomplishments you’ll be perceived as a strong player.
Build a big network
Expand your contacts; meet people from other divisions and industries. The more contacts you have, the more valuable you are as an employee. And who knows what will happen in the future? Someone may promote you to your next big job.
It’s okay to be vulnerable
Your colleagues will be more likely to want to work with you if they see you as authentic. It may seem scary at times to reveal different parts of yourself, but you’re in control of what you share. If people see that you aren’t afraid to be vulnerable and ask for help, they’ll be more likely to feel connected to you.
Don’t write off difficult people
A power player you may want on your side could be difficult to work with—you don’t have to like him, but show interest in his work. Let him know what you can do for his projects. Leaders want to bring along people who produce.
Don’t dramatize bad days
Even if your car wouldn’t start, you spilled coffee on yourself, and you ran a stop sign, try to keep things in perspective. And if a project goes south focus on the lessons learned. Would-be-leaders are able to appear poised under pressure.
What office alliances can do for you…
Good press
They speak positively about you when you’re not around, which enhances your reputation.
A sounding board
When you have a challenge, she’s a good source for honest feedback.
