“It’s a popularity contest” – no, not prom king and queen. We’re talking about being successful in the office.

With the likes of Stanford, MIT and Harvard all agreeing on this one principle, best you change up your attitude to a positive one.

“If you catch yourself saying, “But I’m right and they’re wrong!” — congratulations, you now have a confirmed attitude problem.”

So, be the one that makes friends in the office, be the one that ‘creates a favourable impression’ – this will actually enhance your work performance.

“Those who exhibit a strong belief in a brand’s mission or cause become more influential in important company circles, while those simply focused on punching the clock become more peripheral players.”

Cynthia Shapiro, an HR professional, says that a company will favour you if “you bring yourself into the appearance of alignment through your daily actions and choices”. So, even if you have less skills and experience but a better attitude than a colleague, you could get that promotion sooner.

Don Quixote tells you what to do now: Just be the person you were in your interview. They liked you then, that’s why they hired you. “You were positive, enthusiastic, well-prepared and aimed to please. What more could a company ask for?”

Check out Time.