Throughout my career, I have come across some amazing coworkers; many of which have helped change the trajectory of my career, simply by what I saw them do. The truth is, we will all cross paths with that awe-inspiring and exceptional peer. That person who exemplifies grace, character, good judgement and the like.I call them the Quintessential Colleague. A picture perfect role model who motivates you to do and become better.

Being inspired at work is a critical element to your performance and success. Have you ever wished you had that one person who can just say something encouraging instead of gossiping? Someone who is generous with praise instead of inflating their own self-worth? That coworker who is a team player instead of a “finger pointer”. It changes the work environment, doesn’t it?

Have you ever thought that you could become that person for someone else? That inspirational peer who is committed to making the work environment a better place. It takes work, but the rewards are sweet!

If you’re up for it, I suggest you start out by following these 5 simple behaviors and watch the sparks fly right off you as you shine! Caution: Typical results from these behaviors include a fulfilling career that will impact lives. 

Let’s go:

1.    Connect with your colleagues

Connection is more than communication. Connection facilitates communication. Think about it; communicating with your colleague becomes much easier when you’re connected to them. It promotes efficiency and minimizes misunderstandings. Connecting effectively happens when you begin to (1) hear what people say, (2) appreciate when people do and (3) value who people are.

John Maxwell says it best: “Everyone communicates, few connect”. Make an effort to connect. It makes a difference.

2.    Be Optimistic

A cheery disposition is groundbreaking. A dreadful dreary day at work can turn into a great day just by being optimistic. Always find the good in that tight deadline, “annoying” coworker, or abrupt email. I can assure you things will turn around, quickly.  

Everybody say “Good-bye Negative Nancy and Hello Positive Polly!”

3.    Remain calm and poised

Over the years, I have learnt that the ability to deal with pressure in the workplace is a highly sought-after skill that we all need to master. With this, I formulated 7 strategies, termed 7P’s to perfect poise, which has helped me remain cool, calm and collected when the pressure hits:

–      Ask what needs to be done now, and just do it- Prioritize

–       Side-step any drama and give your best- Positivity

–       Learn your business; identify patterns and plan towards it- Plan and Predict

–       Be prepared for the chaos, it will come – Position

–       You are going through this for a reason; keep that in mind- Purpose

–       Keep pushing through, you will see results- Patience

There you have it. The 7 P’s to perfect poise. I invite you to use these strategies when working under pressure; it works, trust me! 

4.    Share what you know

Here’s what I believe; the more you learn, the more you should share. The more you share, the more you learn.Said another way: The more you give (knowledge, money, love etc), the more it grows, and growth always increases your capacity for more. It’s the law of expansion.

I always encourage others to share. It creates a platform for innovation, diversity of thought and is a win-win for all. Peer coaching and mentoring is a great way to offload your knowledge. Help others when they need help. It’s the right thing to do.

5.    Be a person of integrity

Integrity is a key trait valued by all. People of integrity are trustworthy and ethical. Team members are always drawn to them! 

I once worked with someone who was committed to being a woman of integrity. She worked when she was meant to work (yep, no social media) and arrived and left when scheduled. Gossip to her was a no-no and she was a true team player who will always do her best to make her colleagues shine. Notice how these things are simple, but rare? #pauseandreflect

Always do the right thing, especially when no-one is watching.

To close: At it’s essence, a quintessential colleague supports not obstructs, they inspire and not discourage, they connect and not divide. You have a profound impact on your coworker’s job satisfaction, engagement and performance. Choose to be a quintessential colleague by applying these simple behaviors…it doesn’t only change you, but others around you. Good luck!

Peju Akintorin