Your Image in the Workplace

Our image at our workplace, or in other words, what people we work with think about us, is often important to each and every one of us. It might happen that you're in line for a promotion and you're wondering how to prove that you're better than your hard-working colleague; or maybe you'd just like to get along better with the people you work with every day. In either of these cases, as well as in others, an improvement of your image can only have positive results.

There are many ways in which you can modify or change your image. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Relationships with your colleagues:

• Getting along well with the people around you is sometimes a question of diplomacy. Take some time and analyze each of your colleagues. Establish their needs and try to be helpful. They may be suspicious in the beginning, but after a while you are sure to obtain the desired result. After all, who wouldn't want to have a partner at work, offering to help them finish a project earlier? This way, you will not only prove that you are a team worker, but you also have someone you can turn to, when you need help with a project.
• Pay attention to what your colleagues have to say. The meeting may be just as boring as usual, but the fact that you comment on another person's presentation will show that you care about their opinions. Don't hesitate to congratulate your co-workers on their accomplishments. Everyone likes to be told they've done a good job. If you make them feel good about themselves, they'll feel good about you. And don't stop at their accomplishments - compliment them on a new haircut or outfit they're wearing. This will show that you're paying attention and you're interested in them. Remember how good it makes you feel to have someone say you look great today!
• Small courtesies mean a lot. If you're going for a cup of coffee or calling out to have lunch delivered, remember to ask if you can include your colleagues.

2. Reorganize your workspace.

• Take some time on the design of your office or workspace. Is it a welcoming space that makes visitors feel comfortable? Add a colorful picture or a few small plants. After all, you spend at least 8 hours each day in this space and comfortable surroundings improve your mood and make your time more productive. It also shows that you enjoy your work because you're interested in improving your surroundings.

Depending on our position and workplace, sooner or later most of us decide we need to upgrade our image. So, when you feel it's necessary, these ideas should help get you started.