TOPIC# 22 we all work in jobs with many different kinds of people. In your opinion, what are some important characteristics of a co-worker (someone you work closely with)?

Colleagues are people who we communicate with regularly and almost constantly, so their personality and behavior influence the quality of time we spend at work. I believe co-workers should be friendly and not jealous.

First, the most important characteristic for a co-worker is friendliness. Friendly colleagues make the work environment more pleasant for everyone, which positively influences the work efficiency. We can talk, laugh, or share ideas with them, and create a sociable atmosphere at workplace. Moreover, friendly colleagues are always ready to help in time of need. They might do your job when you have a problem at home, and you cannot show up at work. Having trouble at work, they might help you to eliminate flaws from your job. A good-natured colleague is very helpful, and it is really good luck to have one. For example, a few years ago, I had to attend an evening class for a week, so I could not work late in the evening.However, one of my colleagues was kind enough to offer me some help. In order to complete my job, she accepted to work overtime for a week.

Second, a good colleague should not envy others’ success or position. A jealous co-worker might use every opportunity to hurt your reputation and chances by interfering in your job, criticizing of your method, or exaggerating your small faults in front of others. She would be glad from your failure, and sad from your victory, and this is really unpleasant. For instance, my aunt works very conscientiously, so she regularly receives promotions or increments for her efforts. Some of her colleagues snub her at the office or during lunch time, and some others go even further and badmouth her in public, only because they are envious of her achievements. This condition is really unbearable for her, and, now, she is looking for another job.

To sum it up, it seems to me that kindness and not being jealous are the most essential characteristics for a co-worker since a kind colleague makes working more enjoyable, and we can depend on her sometimes. On the contrast, a jealous one makes it miserable.