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Jobs.
We all have them or want them. They are part-time, full-time and some women even take on the daunting responsibility of freelance projects. While we may not always love them, they keep us afloat in this harsh world.
So before you jeopardize your business and financial security because of a few minor mistakes, it is important to remember that there are people lined up to jump at the opportunity for your gig. To help ensure you keep that career moving forward, take a look at this guide to proper work etiquette.
While you might need a break to relax your mind during the day, don’t get up and walk around the office. Standing in the walkways around your friend’s cubicle can cause traffic and also doesn’t look very professional. Your boss might wonder what you’re doing standing around instead of working.
Pay attention to the company culture and how people dress. Most of the time, people don’t walk around the office in flip flops and a pair of cutoff shorts. Remember that you are at work, not at a club or hanging around the house. That’s not professional.
Also, don’t make others feel uncomfortable because you’re wearing a shirt with a plunging neckline or exposed bra because that’s the fashion trend this summer. There is a time and place for that, but work is neither.
Still unsure of what is or isn’t appropriate? Head over to Real Simple to get the low-down on the right attire.
This is a big one. When it comes to forgotten pens and paper clips, don’t sneak into a coworker’s cubicle and take their belongings. Stealing – or “borrowing” without asking – is a bad display of character. Instead, ask for permission and they will likely happily loan you a pen or pencil.
Also, it’s not your coworkers’ fault you forgot your lunch – don’t take another person’s lunch because you made a mistake. Go out and grab a bite to eat instead.
There are about 30 of you crammed inside one section of the building. Be aware that you all share the space – don’t be the person who talks loudly on the phone without care. At the same time, be mindful of what snacks you eat in your cubicle and warm in the microwave. A cod and catfish sandwich is probably not the best choice. Try some almonds or a granola bar.
You spilled coffee the moment you sat at your desk, the printer is jammed and now that you’ve finally fixed it, you realize the printer is out of ink. Problems on problems are piling up on the long list you have for the day. Step back. Take a breath. Bad days are inevitable. There is no need to erupt like a volcano because your day isn’t going as planned. Odds are, you’re not the only one having a bad day; there are probably plenty of others in the same boat. Remember that the day will end and you can start fresh tomorrow. In the meantime, try and get through the rest of your day with proper composure.
“Ay yo, Collin what’s up!” probably isn’t the best way to greet your boss. While you might have had a pleasant exchange outside of work at one point, that doesn’t give you the right to speak to him like that guy who hangs out in front of 7-Eleven. He is your superior and you should show respect even if you are close in age.
Always – always – assume whoever you want to talk about is standing right behind you. Oh, Patty just got fired? You feel for the girl? Totally, it’s rough and you hate seeing long-time coworkers go, but watch your verbal reaction and body language. Offer your sincere apology for her sudden dismissal, but don’t add more then that. Throwing the extra, “This place is going down the drain anyway,” might just result in your dismissal.
Your cubicle might be your own area to decorate, however, those decorations represent you. Hanging a photo of your keg stand at Jim’s college graduation is not a good move. That shot of you in a bikini in the Bahamas lying suggestively on the sand? Still no. Your desk represents who you are and you represent the company. While you may want to bring a taste of home to your space, maybe that tchotchke that takes you back to your Nassau vacay isn’t the best idea. Try a ceramic palm tree.
Still a little unsure about how to liven up that cubicle, Home Edit has the 30 best ideas to to turn the space from drab to fab.
Yes, you have all that work piling up on your desk and taking the day off is going to look like a tornado hit your desk when you arrive the following morning. However, going to work sick is not always the greatest idea. You share the place with dozens of other people who also have work to do. Showing up sick means you risk spreading your germs to others. If it is important to you that you don’t fall behind, ask your boss if it’s possible to take your work home.
If you’re working in an office building packed with people, the chances of somebody having an allergy to your scent of choice runs very high. While your perfume may smell like beautiful freshly-bloomed flowers during the month of May, the scent might make someone else run to the restroom green faced.
Jill hates you and everybody – the doorman, the janitor even your grandma in Kansas – knows it. Just because Jill likes to make it known to the world doesn’t mean you should do the same. Do not reciprocate because sooner or later she will have to suffer the consequences herself and you don’t want to be caught up in that wave.
