Don’t we all, to an extent, wish to be people magnets, surrounded by admirers, signing autographs, waving and smiling at the camera? Okay, maybe a bit too much! Nonetheless, an appropriate comparison. Celebrities often represent the best form of personality we all aspire to be. They seem to be perfect people persons who carry influence, style and positivity. Nowadays, we all are expected to become celebrities in our personal and professional lives, marketing our best versions to the world. If you wish to get that extra special treatment at a party or the consideration for a promotion, we certainly cannot overlook the advantages of being a people person. Note, a people person isn’t a people pleaser (a term with negative connotations) nor a highly extroverted individual (yes, most of us are not extroverted). All of us can strive to become the ultimate people person to gain advantages in the workplace. Here are five ways to be one:

Choose a Workplace That You are Passionate About

Working in a place that offers you learning, socializing and work experiences that inspire you will mean that you will come across to others as a positive and motivated individual. This means you will be prompted to pitch in ideas in meetings, and see that the end results of your efforts culminate in reaching the higher goals of the company that you are aligned with.

Prioritize Listening Over Speaking

Listen more than you speak. Show a genuine interest in coworkers when they relate something personal. It is easy for them to see when you aren’t actually paying attention, so mean it. This would mean putting in your part by speaking where necessary to keep up the flow of the conversation.

Behave Well, Really Well

You may think Victorian era pleasantries are out of fashion nowadays, but they are very much in demand at work. Words like “thank you” and “please” are still applicable, so are greetings like “hello” and “good morning.” Asking things like, “How was your past day (or the weekend)?” surely works too.

Help a Co-worker in Times of Need or Trouble

While you may be remarkably busy in your own work, it is never a bad idea to help a co-worker. Maybe they forgot to save a presentation and have an hour to submit it. Offer to take half of the work off their shoulders. Perhaps, they need to leave home early to attend to a sick family member. Jump in and take on their tasks for the day.

Have a Sense of Humour

Even if you do not know how to tell a good joke, you can for sure appreciate one. Laugh when it is appropriate to encourage positive relationship-building with peers. Relating something funny that happened to you in a stimulating way can surely uplift the mood of your co-workers.

If you wish to conquer the hearts of your co-workers, implement the five ways mentioned to become the ultimate people person.

Arslan Ahmed | Staff Writer