Have you just started a new job or do you work in an office where there is little social interaction? Then work can sometimes feel quite lonely. This is of course not pleasant, because you should also be able to get pleasure from your work. Do you want to feel less alone at work? This is how you do that.
Look for small and simple ways to interact with colleagues
Not every workplace is super social. But even a small interaction with a colleague can make you feel less isolated. Sometimes just exchanging a smile with someone can make you feel less alone. Just saying good morning to someone in the elevator is also a form of interaction. Who knows, you might also help your colleagues by doing this, after all, no one likes feeling alone.
Then think about how you can start a conversation
Do you feel the need to have a chat with your colleagues? Then remember that you certainly have something in common with your colleagues. You work in the same sector, that’s something. For example, if you meet someone at the coffee machine, you can ask how long they have worked for the company or where they went to college. There is a chance that you will discover that you have more in common with that one colleague than you thought. If you meet each other more often, the conversation can also expand further. Find out from your colleague whether they are open to a conversation. If all goes well, your simple small talk will grow into a friendly bond. At the same time, they also feel alone.
Carefully consider the way you communicate with others, especially if you work from home
Contacting colleagues is not always easy, especially if you work from home. In this case, it is extra important to be very intentional with your communication. If you’re in touch via email or a program like Slack, you can make a little small talk by opening your messages with a question about how their weekend was. The way someone responds says a lot about how open they are when it comes to small talk. Try not to message someone too often. Don’t push yourself, because this sometimes pushes people away. Message them only when necessary and only message them at other times when you are sure it is appropriate.
Try not to get too high expectations
Friendships should develop organically. You can contact someone and indicate that you are interested in a friendship or contact here and there in the workplace, but if the other person does not want this, then that’s the end of it. Some workplaces consist of many people who love social interaction, other places less so. It is therefore completely okay to ask about the atmosphere in the workplace when looking for a job. Your work is a big part of your life, so you probably want to enjoy your work. Making friends at work is certainly possible, as long as you take the boundaries of your colleagues into account.
