Turning Dislike Into Friendship

Nobody can be liked by everyone, and some people simply do not get along. That is perfectly fine. Sometimes, though, it really matters that a particular person warms to you. They might matter to someone dear to you, or they might be the person you report to. In any case, here are some ways to win over someone who seems to dislike you.

Check that it really is dislike

Some people are just quiet, or naturally reserved with everyone. It is only real dislike if they keep being rude to you and go out of their way to make your life harder. Before you do anything, compare how they treat you with how they treat others, and do not overreact.

Talk to them directly

Sometimes the straightforward route is the best one. Choose a good moment and calmly ask why the two of you seem to have started off badly.

Look honestly at your own part

Was it something you said or did? Think about how you generally behave and about your past dealings with this person. If their dislike turns out to be your fault, consider saying sorry and starting again.

Try kindness

Give warmth a chance, even when they are being unpleasant. Be kind to them a few times and see whether they meet you halfway. Do not go overboard. Give them a fair chance to respond in kind, and if they do not, simply keep a polite distance.

Keep things normal

Speak to them the way you would to anyone else. At the start of the week, ask how their days off went. You do not need to sit beside them and chatter. One friendly gesture a day can go a long way towards changing how they feel about you.