I'm a HR director with three decades of experience... here is how to tell if your colleagues like you

Being well-liked by your boss is certainly important if you want to get ahead or earn a promotion. But many people are often left wondering: does my superior actually like me or are they just being nice as a formality?. Thankfully, a HR director with more than three decades of experience has broken down how you can tell if someone at work genuinely enjoys being around you. Michael Doolin, CEO of Clover HR, who is based in the UK, explained to Business Insider recently, 'It's not necessary to be liked by your manager or your colleagues if you're doing your job right, but it certainly helps. It will make your life easier and more enjoyable.'.

According to Michael, the first way to tell that you've made it onto your boss' good side is if they start to ask you to 'participate in projects' or 'undertake jobs, new assignments, or tasks' on their 'behalf.'. 'Equally, being asked to attend meetings and events, both social and professional, is a sign that people want you around and that your input is valued,' he added. 'When a manager asks a colleague for their opinion, it shows that their contribution is respected.'.

In addition, he said to keep an eye out for 'natural cues' that might give some insight into what your boss thinks of you. Michael Doolin, a HR director with 36 years of experience, has revealed how you can tell if you're well liked at work (stock image). If they're comfortable enough to use 'jokes and humor' with you or if they have relaxed 'body language,' that's a good sign. 'Physical chemistry is an important cue as to whether you're liked,' he shared.

'If your colleagues present good body language, such as smiling, laughing, making jokes, paying attention to what you're saying, and asking questions, these are all signs of being well-liked.'. As for how you can win your boss over, he suggested 'asking thoughtful questions' because it will 'demonstrate a desire to add value and be included in discussions.'. 'Be keen to learn, whether that's identifying shared interests or questioning internal processes to remove roadblocks and create opportunities,' he said.

In addition, Michael noted that every manager 'likes an employee that makes them look good' so he recommended being a 'strong team player.'. 'If you go out of your way to facilitate constructive changes, your team members and boss should respect your drive,' he continued. 'Sharing information, working collaboratively, and contributing to formal and informal workplace meetings can cement an employee's position in a team.'.

According to Michael (seen), you can tell that you've made it onto your boss' good side if they start to ask you to 'participate in projects' or 'undertake jobs, new assignments, or tasks'. He also said that 'small things' and 'thoughtful gestures' like 'making coffee or tea' for your coworkers can 'go a long way.'. 'Offering to make a drink or lending a hand with other simple tasks isn't just about the act itself - it's about cultivating an environment of mutual respect and consideration,' he concluded.