Over the years, we all learn a few seemingly magic phrases.  Children’s “magic words” used to be “please” and “thank you”; the following three expressions have equally magical effects when used by adults both in and out of the workplace.

1. “I need your help.”

It’s so simple, isn’t it?  “I need your help.”  But, it really is amazing how much more receptive people are to doing something for you when you preface your request with that sincere sentence.  Most people genuinely want to help and respond much better to requests for help than to demands for work.  Give it a try next time you need to ask a colleague to do something.

2. “I appreciate you.”

Our colleagues need to feel valued and appreciated.  No one wants to work hard all of the time and not be acknowledged for that work.  A simple but genuine, “I appreciate you and the work you did on…” goes such a long way to motivating those who work for and with you.

3. “How can I help?”

Wouldn’t it be nice to have those around you ask you how they can be of help when you most need it?  It’s not difficult to sense colleagues’ burden and little would mean more to them than a few willing coworkers who offer assistance with this simple sentence.