Ploymint

Let’s face it – you’re at your place of work more than you’re anywhere else. You probably see your colleagues more than you see anyone else. It’s a sad world we live in folks, but we have to face reality. It’s important to make friends at work. Why? Because these people understand when you need to vent about your boss or that colleague who complains about everything. You need sanity when communications issues or other workplace conflicts arise. Don’t know where to start? Here are five simple ideas for how to make friends at work.

1. Smile And Say Hi
   This is the easiest way to start a conversation. Is it Monday? Ask them how their weekend was. Not Monday? Ask them if they’re ready for the weekend, or why it’s not Friday yet. A simple smile can go a long way, especially if it becomes a daily occurrence.

2. Help Others
   Who doesn’t like people who help? If you have down time at work, see who’s busy bustling away on a new project, and offer to help them. Not only will they be appreciative of the help and support, you’ll have a new friend and a new person who will be more willing to help you when you’re the one with a project that needs to get done.

3. Go to Social Events
   Is there a work happy hour happening? Go. A holiday party? Go for it. The best time to chalk up the courage to say hello to someone new is after a few glasses of wine. Here’s your chance to meet others in a less formal setting. What do you have to lose?

4. Social Media
   Don’t feel comfortable adding them on Facebook or Twitter just yet? LinkedIn is your way to go. People always want to grow their networks, and what better way is there to do this than by linking with people you work with? Take it one step further. Don’t just add them with a generic message; write something more personal such as “Hey great working with you! So happy to connect.” Then proceed to endorse them for a skill they’re great at. They’ll appreciate it, and potentially even return the favor.

5. Stalk Their Cubicle
   Okay, this isn’t as creepy as I made it sound, I promise. Take a peek at their cubicle and see what they’re interested in. For the most part, people personalize their cubicles, making this the easiest way to see if you share similar interests. Do you like the same sports team? Have the same color scheme? Share a love of covering your cubicle in pictures? There’s your conversation starter.

The big key in all this is to remain confident. Don’t be intimidated by someone else who already has a work BFF on lock. You’re awesome as well. Find your person, and strike up a conversation with them. Is there a new hire? Welcome them with open arms, as it’s never easy being the new kid on the block. These five simple actions are great places to start making friends.