Be the perfect colleague – is it possible?

What features does the perfect colleague have? Of course, nobody likes working with people who are always miserable, too touchy, over-competitive or disloyal.  So here is a list of qualities that the ideal co-worker should have: necessary features to help make the professional workplace more stimulating and enjoyable for all.

• Be optimistic

Being optimistic, helpful, cheerful and proactive even when things are not going entirely well, helps improve individual as well as group performance.  We must admit that if something goes wrong our mood can hit rock bottom, but those who are able to face difficulties with a smile on their face have a greater chance of resolving their problems successfully.  Pleasant, polite interaction with others is the first step towards optimising our own performance.

•  Be honest

The perfect colleague is the one who is able to show their honesty and loyalty to those around them.  The over-competitive, or ‘clever’ ones and those who behave in an underhand manner in the hope of obtaining a promotion or special treatment are certainly not destined for a great career, because the rest of the team will no doubt take a dim view of their behaviour.  In order for others to warm to us it is essential to admit our mistakes and take responsibility for our errors.  This kind of approach is essential in any professional field.

• Communicate effectively

The ability to communicate, interact and compare ideas with others is very important in the working environment and those who do not succeed in building relationships risk being marginalised.  Good communicators have good relations with longstanding colleagues while also being open towards getting to know newer staff members.  They treat them well, putting them at ease and making an effort to facilitate their settling in period.  Obviously these individuals should keep any natural excesses in check, especially if they work for a company with particularly strict policies.

• Be friendly

Being friendly and having a good sense of humour enables us to get on better with the people we work with. Laughing at others’ jokes, joining in when the situation requires it and not taking ourselves too seriously can all help to bring people closer and make us more approachable.

Translated by Joanne Beckwith