(A Practical Guide for Long-Term Career Success)
In the South African employment landscape, technical skills and qualifications are essential, but strong professional relationships often determine career progression, job security, and access to opportunities. The ability to build trust and rapport with colleagues, supervisors, and support staff is a critical differentiator across all sectors — from corporate offices and financial institutions to mining, retail, government departments, and healthcare.
Below is a professional, evidence-based framework used successfully by thousands of employees and managers in 2025–2026.
1. Consistent and Respectful Daily Greetings
Greet every colleague by name and with genuine interest each day. Example: “Good morning, Thabo. How are you today?” or “Sawubona, Refilwe. I hope you had a good weekend.” This small habit builds familiarity and respect within the first 10 seconds of interaction and is especially valued in South African workplace culture.
2. Demonstrate Thoughtfulness Through Small Gestures
Periodically contribute shared snacks or treats (e.g., a box of biscuits, samoosas, or fruit) for the team or department. This low-cost action signals generosity and team orientation, strengthening informal bonds.
3. Offer Assistance Proactively
Identify opportunities to help colleagues without being asked:
- Assist with carrying materials
- Share knowledge of systems or processes
- Support a teammate who is under pressure
These unsolicited acts of support create reciprocal goodwill and position you as a reliable team member.
4. Practise Inclusive Breaks and Meals
When eating at work, invite at least one colleague to join you when feasible. Sharing a meal or a quick tea break fosters personal connections and improves cross-departmental communication.
5. Remember and Reference Personal Details Appropriately
Note one non-intrusive personal detail about each colleague (e.g., a child’s exam, a family member’s health, or a weekend plan) and follow up later. Example: “How did your daughter’s matric trials go?” This demonstrates attentiveness and care, significantly strengthening trust.
6. Maintain Strict Confidentiality
When a colleague shares personal or sensitive work-related information, treat it with absolute discretion. Becoming known as a trustworthy confidant increases the quality and quantity of information shared with you, including early insight into opportunities and risks.
7. Use Inclusive and Respectful Humour
Keep humour light, self-deprecating when appropriate, and focused on shared external challenges (e.g., load-shedding or traffic) rather than individuals. Avoid any comment that could be interpreted as targeting appearance, background, or personal circumstances.
8. Adopt a Service-Oriented Mindset
Regularly ask: “Is there anything I can assist you with?” This phrase is particularly effective with IT support, HR, facilities staff, and senior colleagues during busy periods.
9. Observe Professional Communication Etiquette on WhatsApp and Email
- Respond to work-related messages within a reasonable timeframe (typically within one hour during working hours)
- Acknowledge receipt even if a full reply will follow later
- Confirm safe arrival home when working late, if it is part of your team’s norm
10. Mark Personal Milestones Appropriately
On your birthday or work anniversary, consider bringing a modest cake or treat for the team with a note inviting everyone to help themselves. This reinforces a culture of celebration and reciprocity.
Outcomes of Consistent Application
Employees who apply these practices for six months typically experience:
- Higher approval rates for leave and flexible arrangements
- Inclusion in informal mentorship and acting opportunities
- Early warning about organisational changes
- Stronger advocacy during performance reviews and restructuring processes
Professional relationships built on mutual respect and reliability are one of the most powerful career assets in the South African context. Begin implementing one or two practices immediately; the compound effect over time is substantial.
Your network within the workplace is as important as your network outside it. Invest in it deliberately and consistently.