Practical Tip: How to Be Well-Liked at Work (Assalamu alaikum)

Assalamu alaikum - I know it shouldn’t be the main thing, but being well-liked at work can lead to better pay, promotions, useful connections, and overall career growth. (Bonus: it can help you make friends too.) Lately I’ve noticed people at my job really respond to me - I stand out a bit - and I think it comes down to this: I show people I like and appreciate them, I reflect that back to them. I try to be enthusiastic, optimistic, and engaged. I don’t always feel that way, but I switch it on and look for the good. Most importantly, I connect with people and mirror appreciation. I talk to colleagues like they’re friends - including managers and leaders - not in an unprofessional way, but with curiosity and warmth. “How was that trip you took? That sounds lovely. Would you recommend it?” You might think “but I don’t really like them,” and that’s when this is most useful: some people are used to tense or adversarial interactions. Choose to focus on something positive and build from there. It’s not about being fake - it’s about where you put your attention. You still know your own honest view and the nuances of the situation, but you highlight what’s good. For example, I have a manager who can be tough and demanding. Instead of calling that out, I notice her competence and dedication and reflect that: “This is such an ambitious project, I can see how much you care and how impactful it could be.” I truly believe in parts of that, and I leave out the inner commentary like “this is a lot to handle” or “maybe take a breather.” People want to be respected and valued, even if they don’t always show it. I make a small mental habit of looking for what I like in others. It makes me approachable and easy to be around. I give genuine compliments. Once I told a VP I admired her outfit - she’d clearly put thought into it - and she lit up. I mentioned how her earrings matched her boots and the bracelet matched her top. I meant it: I respected the effort she’d put in, even if it wasn’t exactly my style. People like those who like them. This helps with friendships as well. Show interest in others. Speak respectfully but as an equal, not from a pedestal. Be warm, attentive, look for the good, be kind and curious.