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Professionalism in the Workplace
You spend a great majority of your time at your place of business, and it’s so easy to get “comfortable”. Some work situations allow for healthy relationships, which make the workplace much more enjoyable. However, there is still an expectation that we remain professional, complete assignments and tasks while on the clock, and that we arrive on time and leave on time. The following should ensure that you are meeting the requirements set by your management, and that you consistently fly “under the radar”:
Show Pride in Your Appearance
Always adhere to the dress code. For example, personal bankers, attorneys, CEOs and other upper management type positions are generally under a “business formal” dress code. In some companies, “business casual” is acceptable. Did you know that your employee reviews include your attire at the workplace? When I was in the corporate environment, I found a simple solution to the business casual dress code, allowing me to be comfortable while still meeting company guidelines. I ordered (from the company store) shirts and sweaters with the company insignia, and paired them with slacks or jeans (depending on the day). This way, I was also showing my company spirit by wearing the insignia on a daily basis. It might be a great idea to research this as an option. This also cuts down on the headache of having to find something to wear each day. If you have to question whether or not a particular outfit is “work appropriate”, hang it back in your closet.
Prepare for Work Mode
If you are to report at 8:00 am, you should arrive approximately 10-15 minutes (or more) before your start time. Another example: We all have our morning conversations…whether with office friends, or on personal phone calls. We love to discuss what happened on our favorite TV shows, or to talk about what our children are up to. Get settled in your workspace, and proceed to having your conversation! Arriving a few minutes earlier than your official start time can also give you a minute to breathe after possibly sitting in traffic on the way to the office. To be early is to be on time; to be on time means you’re already late. Rushing is not a good feeling, and that can actually set the tone for the remainder of your day.
Don’t Get Personal and C.Y.R.
Be courteous and pleasant. Let’s say that you work with someone who isn’t one of your all-time favorites; but the two of you are on the same team, under the same management. That particular person doesn’t need to know your true feelings about them, and displaying anything other than a team spirit can work against you. You are there to do a job, and your employee review can depend on whether you will be up for the next position that you may have in your sights. Don’t allow personal feelings for someone in your work environment to have an impact on how far you are able to rise up the “success ladder”. Please be advised: management is often times well aware of office drama, and in some cases, it isn’t your fault. However, the way you handle yourself can make or break you. If you are unable to avoid an individual who may be causing the drama, keep a work diary on any incidents, documented with dates and times that different things occur. In your next employee review, or in a totally different one-on-one meeting, mention these items to your management person. You may be surprised at what they already know. Keep in mind that it’s always important to CYR (cover your rear!).
Every business has its own set of rules, and as an employee, those rules must be followed in order for you to be successful. Fact: “office spies” are very real! However, if you have nothing for them to report back, their focus shifts elsewhere. Remember the reason that you were hired in the first place; you were viewed as someone who would be able to consistently get the job done. Prove them RIGHT!
