7 Common Habits That Make it Hard for Your Co-workers to Like You

7 Common Habits That Make it Hard for Your Co-workers to Like You7 Common Habits That Make it Hard for Your Co-workers to Like YouIf you notice that promising introductions fizzle out long before turning into a dynamic connection, or your co-workers seem to dodge you when they see you coming around the corner, the problem may be staring back at you in the mirror.Relationships are at the heart of our success, and investing in real connections pays off in meeting both professional and partieal goals.Here are some common behaviors that may inadvertently drive others away1. You Talk Too MuchNo one wants to be a captive audience to someone who drones on incessantly about me, me, me. Focus your attention on creating a two-way dialogue, and express a genuine interest in what the other person is saying. Ask open-ended questions and pay attention to his response. The easiest way to be considered a brilliant conversationalist is to listen more than you talk.2. You Gossip, Moan, and ComplainIf youre wondering why everyone has stopped asking you how youre doing, it may be because you generally have something negative to say. A dry, It could be worse is less enthusiastic than, Im doing great, thank you. How are you today? Most people are naturally drawn to those who are positive and pleasant.And, if youre the friend or co-worker who feels the need to keep everyone informed about the current drama, youre likely not trusted with confidential information (even if you claim to be a vault when it comes to keeping a secret). When youve breached someones privacy, its difficult to gain her respect back.3. Youre Always LateThere are few things more irritating than waiting for someone who routinely arrives 45 minutes late. Running behind schedule to a business meeting or lunch with a friend sends the message that you have poor time management skills, or that you just dont care about the person. Youre not the only one whos crazy busy, and you may have much more free time in the future if you continue with this pattern (because people wont want to skipiste out with you). If youre prone to keeping people waiting, break the habit immediately.4. Youre Impatient and UnpredictableOne minute youre laughing and enjoying the party, the next youre storming out without saying goodbye. Everyone has an occasional bad day, but when people dont know what to expect when youre around, its time to find a way to manage your emotions. If you believe most people are incompetent, out to get you, or youre frequently a victim in life, your attitude could use an adjustment. Improving yourself means changing your habits and developing strategies for keeping your cool under pressure.5. Youre Mean SpiritedPosting a mean comment on social media or making a joke and punctuating it with a dismissive, just kidding is not winning you friends. Humor is only funny in small doses, and when it isnt directed at someone to tear him down.6. You Refuse to ApologizeNot only do you find it hard to say Im sorry, but you wont take responsibility for a mistake. Owning up to an error (in a timely fashion) not only shows character, but allows others to observe your willingness to be flexible and make things right. It can strengthen a relationship and encourage trust. Omit the word but or if from your apology- it just passes the blame.7. Youre UntrustworthyIts difficult to build a strong relationship with someone whos unreliable. People do business with people they trust, and they forge friendships with those they feel safe to be around. Its an unhappy truth that dishonesty and deception have long-lasting, negative consequences. There are few things worse than losing your integrity. If you make a mistake, clean it up. If you keep making the mistake over and over again, its intentional.More From Inc.3 Proven Steps to Fix Your Relationships at WorkHow to Make Your Relationships at Work More Authentic25 Phrases That Kill Workplace RelationshipsPhoto of fighting co-workers courtesy of Hero I mages/Getty Images.