Sonny Abesamis via Flickr

Tell me if you’ve seen this movie: A good-natured hero, having been rejected by those in power, befriends a group of assorted outcasts.  Eventually, the hero rallies the misfits, they use their unique talents to triumph over the corrupt establishment, and the hero, by virtue of being a decent human being, ends up a winner.

Okay, maybe I’m blurring a bunch of movies together but it’s a familiar theme, right?  And it applies to your life at work:

It pays to be nice to everyone because you never know who is going to be an asset to your career.

I’m not talking about using people or being disingenuous.  We’re shooting for Good-Natured Hero here, not Mean Girl.  I’m just saying be friendly and talk to people, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone – or your department.

Because that chatty guy in Facilities may be a big help when you need to quickly prep a meeting space.

Or the gal in IT with the One Direction obsession may have great intel on upcoming projects.

Making new friends may not be high on your career priority list and, as an INTJ, I understand wanting to just hunker down at your desk.  But taking time to get to know people is the best way to learn how your organization works, what problems need solving, and ultimately, who to call when you need a hand.

How about you?  Have you had a Misfit Mobilization Moment at work?  Please share.

(Photo by Sonny Abesamis via Flickr, licensed under Creative Commons)