4 Signs You are not Likeable at Work

Being likeable or agreeable is a key component to your success in the workplace. And it all starts with your attitude, controlled by no other than YOU. If you’re a Debbie downer or negative ninja that clears the room like a stink bomb, this one is for you. If two or more of these signs apply to you, it’s time for self-reflection and self-correction by applying these solutions.

1. No one greets you when you come in. You walk into the building and barely make eye contact with anyone or people quickly look away. They are holding their breath and waiting for you to pass by because your negative energy stinks. Next time, greet someone with a smile and say hello. If the response is awkward, it’s okay. Give people a chance to adjust to the new you and try again tomorrow.

2. You don't have a lunch buddy. Lunch time is a great occasion to build relationships with your co-workers. If you’re in isolation during lunch, it’s time for a change. Politely ask to join a group that’s already at a table and have some small talk. Ask your co-workers what they are having for lunch; this may lead to an invitation. Or send out an email to your team letting them know where you’re going for lunch and offer to pick up orders.  

3. You've been fired or in fear of being fired more than a few times in your career. Do you think you would be the first person on the chopping block or cringe when it’s time for your evaluation? Do you come in with an attitude right at 9 AM wishing it was 5 PM? More than likely, it shows and reflection on you is not pretty. It’s time to reflect. You can change your job or you can change your attitude towards your job.

4. You find it difficult to come up with job references. Some people like being the big bad wolf, but I’m sure they feel sheepish when they are filling out their job application and struggle to find a person to say something nice about them. All that huffing and puffing blew everybody away. Foster positive relationships before you need them. 

If you think being likeable is about being a pushover or brown noser, then you got it twisted my friend. It’s about making a choice about your attitude daily, despite your environment and demonstrating your level of emotional intelligence in the workplace and beyond. Your attitude greatly impacts your quality of life, so choose wisely. 

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois
Career Coach
Founder of Rezume Forward
http://about.me/cathy.francois

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Workplace Romance: Business with Pleasure

In the spirit of the Valentine’s season, it’s fitting to bring up the topic of workplace romance. Given the amount of hours we spend with coworkers on a weekly basis, forming relationships that extend beyond the workplace is sometimes inevitable. Early in my career I've sworn that I would never date anyone in the workplace. But an interesting coincidence put me in a dilemma.

Some years ago I met a gentleman that I oddly had a lot in common with. We even had the same major in college and our initial conversation seemed like the makings of a great dating relationship. But apparently we were little too much alike, because I also found out that he would be starting a new job that very next day. And out of all places, it was the company that I was currently working for in the same department. So do I bring everything to a halt or proceed with caution? How is workplace romance viewed in today’s workforce anyway?

According to a WorkplaceOptions survey, how it may be viewed depends on your age. 84 percent of Millennial workers (ages 20-31) say they would have a romantic relationship with a co-worker, compared to just 36 percent of Generation X workers (ages 32-48) and 29 percent of Baby Boomers (age 49-68). Management columnist and author of In Office Hours, Lucy Kellaway says, “It’s one of the worst decisions you can possibly make. Office romances are… complicated and unprofessional.” Whether your point of view is new school or old school here are some things to consider:

What is your company policy? Some companies have rigid policies against workplace fraternization either with those you work with internally or externally. It’s important to know what those are ahead of time.

What is the corporate culture? Look around-- your workplace may not be the best place to hook up. Are there couples married as a result of meeting in the workplace or is there an unspoken rule that makes it taboo?

What are the long term affects? In the beginning the thought may seem rosy. But could a relationship bring on real or perceived favoritism which could create scorned co-workers or worst yet a lawsuit?

The dynamics of a romantic relationship in the workplace can prove to be complex and there are definitely many more questions to consider. Just remember in the workplace with the matters of the heart, be smart.

Moving You Forward,

Cathy Francois

Career Coach

Founder of Rezume Forward

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