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Sonhang Keo, Ben Nguyen, Scott Dawson, Gavin Fulton, Myself
During work I am surrounded by hundreds of co-workers. Usual talks are centered around the weather and work related topics. Not exactly the ideal communication to foster the growth of friendships.
In order to increase the friendships, release stress, and grow a successful support group, you must do activities outside of work. Many people do not wish to spend additional time with co-workers, people that they already see 8-9 hours a day, but meeting outside of work is a completely different atmosphere. You are not surrounded by the pressures of “always being on task”. You are presented with opportunities to relieve stress by talking about work, what works and what doesn’t, as well as get to know each other on a personal level.
But with all of the positive opportunities, there are also ways that can quickly accelerate negativity. Here are things to avoid when spending time with co-workers:
- Gossip: It is so easy to gossip that you don’t even realize you are doing what. “What do you think about….” can lead others to change their outlooks on certain people.
- Fraternization: Spending time with managers usually is not recommended according to company policies for good reasons. Favoritism or isolation can result very fast.
- Too Much Information: Your co-workers care about you, but they do not care that you have to take medication for I.B.S. twice a day. Or that your high school girlfriend/boyfriend cheated on you with your best friend at your birthday party.
- NDA (Non Disclosure Agreements): Just because you work with people, does not meant that they have access to the same information that you do. Be careful not to share confidential information.
- Compromising Memories: When people are not at work, they tend to relax and let lose. Often times this includes getting a few drinks, dancing, etc. Often times the behavior that we show outside of work is not only meant to be shared with a few people, but can also be compromising. Be careful on how you share your memories of the activities, including pictures, blogs, social networks, and gossiping.
Keep these 5 things in mind and have a blast!