Okay, so you just got to this new job and you don’t know anybody. The Black folks you work with have been cordial but they’re still feeling you out so you haven’t pulled a new bestie yet. That’s fine. There is still time. And you’re not trying to force lifelong friendships anyway; you just want someone to talk to on Fridays about the last night’s episode of Scandal. We all just want these eight hours to pass as quickly as possible, right? Well, perhaps you can find solace in the following:
Someone in IT
Your computer, work phone, printer, tablet or whatever is bound to have an off day. And watch it be the one day you wanted to call in sick but mustered up the energy to come in anyway. It’s good to know someone that works in the IT department that could escalate your ticket and possibly force you to take a long lunch because they were working on your computer. [Don’t get fired though.]
The person at the front desk
Someone has to tell you when your Jimmy John’s order has arrived right? Also, if you’re trying to dodge someone or know if someone is around discretely, this person should be able to tell you. This person normally knows about company announcements before everyone else so you might want to know that everyone can leave by 2:00 on Good Friday in advance so you can schedule your nail appointment right after work.
A human resources coworker
The people in human resources can help you when it comes to open enrollment and converting your sick time into personal leave, so you don’t want to piss them off. They are also very active in the job creation and hiring process so if you have a cousin or a homegirl that needs an internship or a job, they could let you know about the position before its posted on the web. Stay cool with someone in this department to help you and yours.
Someone who can vouch for your skills
If you want to join a prestigious professional organization or simply want a new job, you’ll need to have someone who can speak highly of you while you still work there. Now, don’t get fired trying to seek someone out. You should know who you could confide in if you’re ready to throw in the towel. That person should be able to speak from a professional stance about projects you’ve worked on together when future employers call for references.
Your boss
If possible, you actually want a good working relationship with your boss. Don’t be a kiss up or a nosy Nancy, but try to ask him or her about their life outside of work. Try to go the extra mile by staying late occasionally and being pleasant. This will make them like you a person and respect you as an employee.
You don’t have to just work for a paycheck anymore, but if you do, at least it can make it a tolerable experience. Befriending coworkers can provide short-term and long-term benefits if done properly. Who have you gotten cool with at work? How has that worked out?
Credits: Victoria Bernal