A Guide to Building Relationships With Your New Team
Integrating into a new team is about more than just the work. This guide outlines practical steps for building strong, positive working relationships with your new colleagues.
Building Strong Relationships with Your New Team
Your success in a new role depends heavily on your ability to collaborate effectively with your team. Here's how to build those crucial relationships.
1. The Initial Introduction
- Schedule One-on-Ones: Ask your manager to help you schedule brief (15-20 minute) introductory meetings with each team member.
- Prepare Questions: Come prepared with questions about their role, how you might work together, and their experience at the company.
2. Be a Good Listener
- Focus on Understanding: In your initial interactions, focus on learning about your colleagues' roles, challenges, and communication preferences.
- Remember Details: Make an effort to remember personal details they share (e.g., hobbies, interests) to build rapport.
3. Offer, and Ask for, Help
- Be Proactive: If you see a teammate is struggling with a heavy workload, offer to help if you have the capacity.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask: Asking for help shows humility and respect for your colleagues' expertise.
4. Participate in Social Activities
- Join Virtual or In-Person Events: Whether it's a team lunch or a virtual coffee chat, participating in non-work activities is a great way to build connections.
5. Provide and Receive Feedback Gracefully
- Positive Feedback: When you notice a colleague has done great work, acknowledge it.
- Constructive Feedback: When you receive feedback, listen openly and thank the person for their input.
FAQs
Q: What if a team member seems unreceptive or distant? A: Give it time. Continue to be professional, polite, and do great work. Some people take longer to warm up to new colleagues. Focus on building relationships with others, and they may come around.
Q: How do I build relationships in a fully remote team? A: Be extra intentional. Use video calls instead of just audio, participate actively in team chat channels, and suggest virtual social events like online games or coffee breaks.
Strong working relationships are built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and effective communication.
