10 Workplace Secrets That Make Everyone Want to Work With You

Success in the workplace isn’t just about technical skills or job titles. It’s about building trust, strengthening relationships, and becoming the kind of colleague everyone values. Whether you’re working in tourism, hospitality, or any industry where collaboration is key, these ten workplace secrets will make you the person everyone wants on their team.

1. Be the Person Who Makes Things Happen

Every organization faces challenges. The people who step up to solve problems are the ones who earn trust, recognition, and future opportunities. Problem-solvers get promoted because they don’t just identify issues—they create momentum.

2. Master Calendar Psychology

Time is a precious resource. When you book meetings for 25 minutes instead of 30 (or 50 instead of an hour), you show respect for others’ schedules. People will thank you for giving them time back.

3. Adopt the Art of the TL;DR

A concise one-line summary at the top of longer emails makes life easier for everyone. This “Too Long; Didn’t Read” approach respects your colleagues’ time and helps them grasp the essentials quickly.

4. Make Intercompany Connections

Strong networks fuel strong organizations. Introduce people from different departments or projects who could benefit from knowing one another. These small acts of connection often spark unexpected opportunities.

5. Always Send an Agenda

If you’re a leader scheduling a meeting, never send an invite without an agenda. Unclear meetings can feel intimidating. Providing an agenda builds confidence, trust, and efficiency.

6. Leave Spaces Better Than You Found Them

Whether it’s a shared office, meeting room, or digital workspace, take pride in leaving it a little cleaner and clearer than when you arrived. Small touches like this signal professionalism and respect.

7. Practice the Silent Service Model

Help others succeed without seeking credit. When you consistently support your team quietly, your reputation for reliability will grow naturally—and that’s far more powerful than self-promotion.

8. Follow the Plus One Rule

Every process you touch should get just a little better. Even 1% improvements add up over time, transforming workflows, customer service, and organizational culture.

9. Create a Gratitude Loop

Recognition is fuel for strong teams. Notice others’ efforts, express appreciation, and be specific. When gratitude is shared consistently, morale, loyalty, and performance all rise.

10. Be an Office Buddy

Remember how overwhelming it felt to start a new role? Offering to be an office buddy for newcomers is an easy way to build trust, foster inclusion, and ensure your workplace feels welcoming.

Why These Secrets Matter in Tourism & Hospitality

At Learn Tourism the nonprofit academy, we’ve seen how small habits transform organizations. For example, a graduate of our Destination LEXpert program shared:

“This program gave me additional resources and deepened my appreciation for what Lexington and the Bluegrass region have to offer. I learned more about VisitLEX’s composition, its goals, and the variety of restaurants and activities in the area. Keep up the great work!” – Ron Hall

This kind of positive impact doesn’t happen by chance—it happens because people practice collaboration, gratitude, and problem-solving every day.

About Learn Tourism the nonprofit academy...
Learn Tourism is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the tourism industry through innovative educational practices and professional development initiatives. Our mission is to harness the power of science, business psychology, and adult education to build sustainable economies and enrich the tourism landscape.

About the Author and Tourism Keynote Speaker: Stephen Ekstrom

Stephen Ekstrom is the embodiment of a passionate lifelong learner and a seasoned professional in the tourism industry, serving as the CEO and co-founder of Learn Tourism - the nonprofit academy. With over 25 years of experience, he has cultivated a deep understanding of tourism development and education, driven by his commitment to advancing the industry and fostering sustainable economies. Stephen's insatiable curiosity and love for knowledge have led him to be a proud nerd, constantly seeking to expand his expertise and share his insights with others. Alongside his faithful furry companions, Rudy and Marjorie, he embraces the digital nomad lifestyle, traversing the globe and immersing himself in diverse cultures. A dedicated advocate for continuous improvement, Stephen is a professional member of the Association for Talent Development and a member of Skal International. Stephen holds prestigious certifications in Inclusive and Ethical Leadership from USF, AI Governance and Ethics from Brown University, and Sustainable Business Strategy from Harvard Business School.