11 Ways to Become the Most Popular Worker in the Office

3. Avoid gossiping. The stars of Mean Girls may have been popular, but no one liked their gossiping ways—and certainly not their burn book. "An important part of getting on someone’s good side and gaining their admiration is refraining from gossip," explains Salemi. That applies in life and at work. "For example, if there’s speculation that a department isn’t doing well and layoffs are imminent, don’t engage in that conversation. Instead of bringing negativity to your coworkers’ conversations, you’ll be that person they go to get cheered up."

4. Don’t be late. Only the White Rabbit can get away with being late and still be seen as loveable. Warns Salpeter, "You can’t be likable if you’re not present, and if you’re consistently late, you should assume that everyone notices." So be sure to set your alarm early and resist the siren call of the snooze button. Plus, "make a point to leave your home early enough to get to work on time, even when there is traffic," Salpeter says. "'The early bird gets the worm" isn’t just a trite cliché. It’s a reminder that when you appear prepared and ready, you’ll put yourself in a position to succeed."

5. Follow the Golden Rule. Live by the rule at work and you could soon rule your workspace, Salemi says. "Be cordial, smile and be a pleasant person—it’s really easy to do," she says. "By making this move you’ll gain popularity, because people won’t feel like you’re out to get them or undermine them. They’ll get a sense that you support them—it builds trust. This gains you popularity, as well as respect, in the workplace."

6. Appear approachable. RBF is no joke—but your don't-talk-to-me vibe could really turn off your coworkers. "If you walk around with a sour expression, arms crossed in front of you, and fail to make eye contact with your colleagues, it may just mean you’re having a bad day or you’re very shy," Salpeter says. "However, you’ll quickly earn a negative reputation that will be difficult to overcome. If invited to get together with the team, say yes. Smile, even if you don’t feel like it or if you are having a bad day. It will serve you well in the long run."

7. Don't bolt at the end of the day. Getting to happy hour in time for the two-for-one special won't earn you popularity at work—unless you're bringing your office along with you. "Most people won’t appreciate or respect someone who leaves the minute the clock strikes the appointed hour," says Salpeter. "Of course, if there are extenuating circumstances, you might get a pass, but don’t be a clock watcher. It can’t hurt to stay a little beyond your designated hours so that everyone sees that you’re more interested in getting the job done and less interested in running for the door."

8. Offer to help out. If you spot a stressed-out coworker, step in and save the day. "Become a quintessential team player—one who supports and roots for colleagues," says Salemi. "This move will position you to really get on their good side. After all, who wouldn’t like someone who’s going to help them?" But all good deeds—even those that land you in other's good graces—shouldn't come with an ulterior motive. "Yes, you want to be liked, but there should be a sense of authenticity behind your offer," says Salemi. "Otherwise, colleagues will be able to spot your fakeness a mile away and it will ultimately backfire."