Inevtiably in the workforce we meet a huge variety of different people. Depending on the type of person you are, it can be challenging forming relationships with colleagues you don’t have much in common with, find really annoying or just dislike. However your career depends on your ability and emotional intelligence to get on with everyone and contribute to a harmonious and productive work environment.

Here are some ideas to help you build positive relationships with colleagues you just aren’t really that sure about:

Be Professional: Focus on being professional and treating your colleagues with respect and courtesy, even if you don't particularly like them personally. If they are not particularly warm to you, that’s ok, don’t take it personally, let it wash off you, to a point, and remain professional.

Find Common Ground: Actively look for shared interests or areas of agreement that can serve as a foundation for building a positive relationship. This could be related to work projects, hobbies, or even general topics of conversation. There has to be one thing in common you have with everyone, you just to have find it!

Practice Empathy: Try to understand your colleagues' perspectives and motivations. Everyone has their reasons for behaving the way they do, and putting yourself in their shoes can help you be more compassionate and patient.

Communicate Effectively: Clear and open communication is key to any relationship. Make an effort to communicate politely and constructively, avoiding unnecessary conflicts or confrontations. If a relationship is deteriorating, maybe just recognising that with a colleague with an honest chat can be enough to get the relationship back on track again.

Avoid Gossip and Negative Talk: Resist the temptation to engage in gossip or negative talk about your disliked colleague. Participating in such behaviour can escalate tensions and damage your professional reputation.

Seek Mediation if Necessary: If the relationship is seriously strained and impacting your work, consider seeking mediation or involving a supervisor or HR representative to help resolve any issues.

Set Boundaries: It's essential to set healthy boundaries to protect your well-being. Avoid getting overly involved in personal matters or situations that may lead to conflicts.

Focus on the Job: Concentrate on your work tasks and responsibilities. A strong focus on your job can help minimise unnecessary interactions and conflicts.

Participate in Team Activities: Engage in team-building activities or collaborative projects. Working together on shared goals can improve relationships and foster a sense of camaraderie.

Be Patient: Changing the dynamics of a difficult relationship takes time. Be patient and give the relationship a chance to improve gradually.

Seek Support from Others: Talk to trusted colleagues or friends outside of work about your feelings and experiences. Venting your frustrations in a safe and constructive environment can help you cope with the situation better.

It’s not realistic to expect everyone will get along perfectly in a workplace, and that's okay. The aim is to maintain a professional and respectful atmosphere, even if you don't have a close personal bond with certain colleagues.

By focusing on your work, being empathetic, and finding common ground, you can foster a more positive work environment for yourself and your team.