Everyone has a favourite colleague who makes dragging yourself into work every day just slightly more bearable.
Whether it’s their attitude, work ethic, or the way they handle office drama, there are certain things that make a good co-worker stand out. If you want to be the one everyone loves working with, here are some simple but impactful things you can do to become everyone’s favourite colleague.
1. Always help out when you can.
People appreciate a colleague who’s willing to pitch in when things get hectic. Whether it’s offering to help with a project or covering for someone when they’re swamped, being the person who’s always ready to lend a hand makes you a true team player. The little things add up and make you someone everyone can rely on.
2. Be a good listener.
Sometimes, all someone needs is to vent or talk through a problem. Being an active listener — offering a sympathetic ear without jumping straight into advice-giving — shows that you care and makes people feel valued. Your colleagues will appreciate your empathy and your ability to listen without judgment.
3. Bring in snacks or coffee every now and then.
Who doesn’t love a surprise treat during a busy workday? It’s a simple gesture that goes a long way in making people smile. Whether it’s a box of doughnuts, your favourite coffee blend, or even just some fruit to share, small acts of kindness like this can make you the office hero.
4. Be positive and upbeat.
No one wants to work with someone who’s constantly complaining. Being the person who brings positivity to the office — whether it’s with a smile, a funny comment, or an optimistic outlook — can help lighten the mood and make you the kind of person people are excited to collaborate with.
5. Celebrate other people’s successes.
When your colleague nails a big project or hits a milestone, take the time to genuinely congratulate them. Acknowledging your colleagues’ achievements without feeling jealous shows maturity and respect, and it helps build strong, supportive relationships. Everyone loves a cheerleader!
6. Be reliable and dependable.
If you say you’re going to do something, do it — and do it well. Being someone who can be relied upon to meet deadlines, follow through on tasks, and keep promises builds trust. Your colleagues will appreciate your consistency and the fact that they know they can count on you when the pressure is on.
7. Stay calm under pressure.
It’s easy for stress to snowball, but the calm colleague who can keep their head during a chaotic moment is always appreciated. Remaining composed, offering solutions, and keeping a cool demeanour under pressure helps to keep the team grounded and focused, making you a stabilising force in the office.
8. Share knowledge and resources.
Instead of hoarding all the information, share what you know. Offering tips, resources, or knowledge when you have it shows that you’re invested in the success of the team. It also makes you a go-to person when colleagues need help, and who doesn’t like being the helpful one?
9. Be mindful of office dynamics.
Being the “favourite” isn’t just about being liked; it’s about being aware of how you interact with people. Keeping an eye on office dynamics and avoiding unnecessary drama will make you the kind of colleague who creates a harmonious work environment. Nobody enjoys working with a drama magnet, so steer clear of gossip and negativity.
10. Show appreciation.
Taking the time to thank your colleagues for their help or recognising their hard work can really make them feel valued. A quick “thank you” or a note of appreciation goes a long way. People enjoy being recognised for their efforts, and by doing this, you’ll show that you truly appreciate your team.
11. Be respectful of other people’s time.
Being punctual, not overloading colleagues with last-minute requests, and being conscious of their time is a sign of respect. Nobody likes to feel rushed or like their time isn’t being valued, so being considerate of how much people are juggling can help you build strong, positive relationships with your colleagues.
12. Keep things light-hearted when appropriate.
A bit of humour can make a workday feel much less stressful, but it’s important to keep it light. Don’t be the person who cracks inappropriate jokes at the wrong time, but a clever comment or a funny observation can make your colleagues laugh and boost morale. A good laugh is always welcome when work gets tough!
13. Don’t take yourself too seriously.
Everyone loves a colleague who can laugh at themselves. Showing that you don’t take yourself too seriously helps everyone feel more comfortable around you and makes you seem more approachable. Being able to poke fun at yourself every now and then makes you more relatable and human to other people.
14. Help create a positive team culture.
Source: Unsplash Be the person who helps create a positive and inclusive team culture. Encouraging collaboration, supporting people, and maintaining a spirit of camaraderie helps make the office a place people want to be. When you help build a supportive, inclusive environment, everyone wins.
