Some people dread the daily grind: wake up, get ready, work, come home, sleep, repeat. While not everyone has their dream job, one key ingredient to transforming an average workplace into an amazing one is quality coworkers. I am privileged to say that not only do I love my job, but I’m also a huge fan of the people I work with.
This is an ode to them, the ones who help me learn and grow, who assist me out of sticky situations and who are always there to lend a helping hand (or steaming cup of coffee). And what better way to express my gratitude and admiration than with the help of another dream team: the Parks and Recreation Department of Pawnee, Indiana. These are just 10 signs you might be blessed with incredible coworkers like I am!
1. Everyone gets a stellar nickname
While it might not be as cool as Tommy ‘T-Swizzle’ Haverford, team nicknames can put a smile on your face and brighten up your day. It’s hard not to laugh when my teammate turns and asks what ‘Meghatron’ thinks about the situation, or curses my alter ego, Donna, for something she forgot. Even if you don’t have matching uniforms, matching nicknames can make you feel more united with your team.
2. They bring you snacks
On the first day of our busiest times of the year, I was ecstatic to read the short but sweet email: snacks on the back counter. Even though the days were busy that month, and sometimes stress ran high, a little food goes a long way to someone’s heart. Shout out to the coworkers who grab coffee for their cubicle neighbors, or set candy bowls outside of their desks. You’re the real MVP!
3. They are always there when you need back up
Sometimes, you just need someone to say the same thing you said, but with confidence. You did your research, you found the root of the problem, but your audience doubts you, and now you doubt yourself, too. Never fear - your wonder team is here to back you up.
4. They like you enough to hang out with you outside of work
Office Happy Hour? Sunday Brunch? Dinner after work? It speaks volumes that the same people who can tolerate you for 8 hours a day, five days a week, genuinely want to spend additional time with you outside of work hours. Sometimes the best coworkers also make the best friends.
5. They help you grow
Having mentors at works can help you grow both professionally and individually. I would be lost without the specialists on our team, who I know I can turn to whenever I need feedback, or help fixing a mistake. Great teammates know how to turn your errors into teaching moments. Instead of leaving you discouraged, they guide you in the right direction.
6. They build you back up after a hard day
Even in the best of circumstances, we all have days where nothing seems to work out how it’s supposed to. Whether it’s a pep talk in the break room or even just a smile of encouragement, awesome coworkers always know how to bring you back up after a bad day. Your case of the Mondays has nothing on your team’s positive vibes.
7. You have a regular lunch date
When lunchtime rolls around, you never have any doubt of who will be in the lunchroom saving you a seat. A midday escape from your desk is a great way to recharge and refocus for the second part of your shift. Having some friendly faces to keep you company makes that time even more enjoyable.
8. They worry about you when you get sick
Instead of dreading having to call into work, you know your coworkers are concerned for your wellbeing and won’t resent you for staying home if you need to. They don’t mind re-assigning some work while you’re away. They know you would do the same for them, and want you to focus on getting healthy again.
9. They remember your birthday
There’s an office calendar with your birth date on it. Your co-workers decorate your office, bring in treats, or enjoy treats on you. Working might not be your ideal plan for your birthday, but it certainly feels better to have coworkers who celebrate with you.
10. They cheer you on
At the end of the day, you and your teammates are one unit. Together, you work towards a common goal. Each obstacle you overcome, each deadline you meet, each benchmark you soar past, they are there to cheer you on.
