Starting a new job can be exciting but also quite nerve-wracking. Sure, the office environment is the perfect place to get to know your colleagues and establish lasting professional relationships, but what if you need more ways of getting to know them better?
After all, it’s hard not only to establish that professional connection right away, but also to build trust with your teammates in a short amount of time; especially if your workplace is filled with different personality types. Don’t worry: We have some great tips on doing just that. With our top ways to relax with your new co-workers – plus open communication and finding common interests between others – making those valuable connections can be much easier and even enjoyable!
So let’s dive into how you can turn those first few weeks of joining the team into an amazing foundation for growth (both personal and professional) as you tackle challenges together.
Make an effort to get to know each other outside of work
When we spend most of our days at work, it can be easy to forget that we’re all unique individuals with lives and personalities beyond the office walls. That’s why it’s important to take the initiative and get to know our coworkers beyond their job titles. Suggesting a short trip to a kava bar or lunch date can be a great way to spark conversation and connect on a personal level. Who knows? You may even discover common interests or hidden talents you never would have guessed from just talking about spreadsheets and deadlines. Taking the time to get to know your colleagues outside of work can create a stronger sense of teamwork and camaraderie, making your workdays not only more productive but also more enjoyable.
Host a virtual happy hour with coworkers
If you’re tired of the same old routine of virtual meetings with your coworkers, try hosting a virtual happy hour! With a drink in hand and a more relaxed atmosphere, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know your team on a deeper level. It’s a chance to unwind from the stress of the workday and build stronger relationships with your colleagues. Plus, virtual happy hours are a great way to keep the team connected while working remotely. So why not schedule a happy hour and give your team something to look forward to? Who knows, you might even discover a shared interest or two among your coworkers!
Organize a fun game night over Zoom
Are you ready to spice up your virtual hangouts with something more interactive than staring at each other’s faces on Zoom? How about organizing a game night? With games like Pictionary, Scrabble, or Trivial Pursuit, you and your friends can compete against each other while having a blast. And don’t worry if you don’t have the actual board games, there are plenty of online platforms that will allow you to play together virtually. So grab your snacks, pour yourself a drink, and get ready to put your gaming skills to the test.
Connect over shared interests such as music, books, movies, or hobbies
One of the most rewarding experiences in life is connecting with others who share your passions and interests. Whether it’s through music, books, movies, or hobbies, finding common ground with coworkers can provide a sense of belonging and excitement. Imagine discussing your favorite album with someone who knows every lyric by heart, or recommending a book to someone who shares your love for a certain genre. These connections not only offer opportunities for conversation but can also lead to lasting friendships and a sense of community. So next time you’re in the workplace, don’t be afraid to ask what they’re into – you might just discover some shared interests and start building a new connection.
Exchange funny jokes and anecdotes that will bring laughter into the workplace
Laughter is truly the best medicine, and what better way to bring joy into the workplace than by exchanging funny jokes and anecdotes? Not only will it lighten the mood and alleviate stress, but it will also cultivate a positive and welcoming environment that encourages camaraderie among colleagues. Whether it’s sharing a hilarious one-liner, a silly meme, or telling a personal story that will have everyone in stitches, injecting humor into the workday is a surefire way to boost morale and increase productivity. So why not take a break from the stresses of the job and spread a little laughter around the office? It’s the perfect antidote to the daily grind.
Organize team-building activities
Team building activities are a great way to foster trust, communication, and teamwork within a group. These activities can range from outdoor adventures like hiking or rock climbing to indoor games like escape rooms or obstacle courses. By participating in these activities together, you and your colleagues can learn to work together more effectively, understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately strengthen your professional relationships. Plus, team-building activities can also be a fun and exciting way to get out of the office and bond with your coworkers in a new setting.
So why not suggest some team-building activities for your next company outing? It’s an excellent opportunity to relax, have fun, and build lasting connections with your coworkers, and team-building.
As human beings, we all have the power to connect and collaborate with our colleagues. Connecting at work can create strong relationships amongst teams, allowing us to work better together and provide a more effective workflow in the workplace. It doesn’t need to be challenging: something as simple as sharing funny stories over lunch or team-building exercises can spark meaningful connections. As a team, make an effort to counteract these barriers and build strong connections with each other by trying out small activities such as planning a virtual happy hour, organizing a game night over Zoom, or talking about your shared interests.
Allowing workers time to just relax and laugh together will bring positivity into the workplace. Strive for success in the workplace by connecting yourself with your coworkers – it could make a huge difference!
