10 Tips for a Happier Workplace

1. Give a happy "Hello!" in the morning.

Do you plod into the office, eyes down, shoulders slumped, and immediately start work? If so, you're likely to find that coworkers ignore you (at best) or avoid you (at worst). Get into the habit of smiling and greeting your colleagues as you arrive in the morning or begin your shift. It's really amazing how fast this little courtesy can thaw chilly workplace relations.

2. Learn the art of small talk.

Ask your coworkers about their interests — their favorite music, movies, and books, as well as their hobbies, suggests Larina Kase, Ph.D., a psychologist at the Center for Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia. "Showing a genuine interest in them will make them feel comfortable around you," she says. Once you know what floats their boat, clip items from newspapers or magazines to help start conversations. "John, I saw this article about that singer you like," or, "Mary, you like to knit, don't you? I found this great new knitting store not too far from here, and thought of you right away."

3. Ask what they think.

People love to be asked their opinion, so go out of your way to ask, "What do you think belongs in this report?" or, "How do you think I should handle this situation with client X?" Then give the advice giver a sincere thank-you, even if the ideas are less than helpful.

Keep reading for more tips.