Let’s be honest, work is a lot more fun when you get on with the people around you. Whether you’re in a busy office, working from home on Zoom calls, or meeting up in person now and again, building good relationships makes everything a lot smoother. It’s not just about avoiding awkward silences by the kettle. Strong workplace relationships can boost your mood, help you get things done, and even make those Monday mornings a bit less grim. If you want your team to click, here’s how to build stronger connections that last.
Start with Small Talk (Yes, Really)
You might roll your eyes at talking about the weather, but small talk is more powerful than it seems. A quick chat about what you watched last night or your plans for the weekend helps break the ice and build trust, especially if you’re new to the team or working remotely. Try starting meetings with a quick check-in and make time to ask colleagues how they are. You’ll be surprised how these little moments strengthen bonds. Plus, it’s a lot easier to collaborate with someone you know a bit about.
Be Genuinely Helpful (Not Just When the Boss is Watching)
If you spot a colleague wrestling with a tricky spreadsheet or struggling to find the right form, offer a hand. Being helpful shows you’re a team player and builds goodwill. If you’re not sure how to help, just ask. Sometimes, listening is enough. And don’t forget, offering help shouldn’t be reserved for emergencies or only when you’re hoping for a favour in return. The little things count, whether it’s sharing your go-to lunch spot or helping someone master the office coffee machine.
Embrace Differences (It’s Not Just HR Talk)
Every team is a mix of personalities, backgrounds, and working styles. That’s what makes work interesting. Instead of sticking to your usual circle, make an effort to get to know people who are a bit different from you. Ask questions, be open to new ideas, and don’t be afraid to try someone else’s way of doing things. You’ll build a richer, more creative team atmosphere, and you might pick up a few handy tips along the way. Plus, you’ll avoid that awkward moment when you realise you’ve worked with someone for years and still don’t know what they actually do.
Give Credit Where It’s Due (Share the Spotlight)
No one likes a glory hog. If someone’s helped you out or done a cracking job, say so—publicly if you can. A quick thank you in a meeting or a shout-out over email costs nothing but means a lot. When you celebrate each other’s wins, big or small, you create a culture where everyone feels valued. That makes people more likely to pitch in when things get tough, and it’s brilliant for morale.
Sort Out Issues Early (Don’t Let Grudges Brew)
Even in the friendliest teams, misunderstandings happen. Maybe a message was misunderstood, or someone’s tone came across a bit sharp. The trick is to deal with issues quickly and calmly, before they can fester into something bigger. If something’s bothering you, have a chat in private and listen to the other person’s side. Nine times out of ten, it’s a simple fix. Open communication keeps things positive and shows you care about the team as a whole.
Make Time for Fun (Yes, Even at Work!)
You don’t have to organise a big night out to build relationships, though the odd quiz or pizza lunch never hurts. Even small things, like sharing a funny meme in the group chat, running a five-minute Friday game, or celebrating birthdays together, can boost team spirit. If you’re remote, suggest a virtual coffee break or an online game. When people laugh together, they relax—and relaxed people work better together.
Ready to Build Brilliant Relationships?
Building strong, positive relationships at work makes every day a bit brighter and a lot more productive. If you want to get even better at connecting with colleagues, handling tricky conversations, and creating a friendlier team vibe, our Building Relationships Training Course has you covered. It’s packed with practical tips and is designed to be fun, down-to-earth, and totally relevant for UK workplaces. Find out more and book your place here—your future self (and your team) will thank you!
