Some aspects of office etiquette are generational.
Others have stood the test of time.
Many of the ways you act at home or with friends may be offensive in a work environment.
The problem is that not many will speak out when they are made uncomfortable. They will simply tolerate it publicly and make a mental note.
The mistake for the offenders is to be unaware or assume you got away with poor behavior.
Then you wonder why you struggle getting people to follow you or support you in major opportunities.
Listed below are offenses that may seem like nothing too egregious by themselves, but a few put together will make others roll their eyes every time they see you coming.
1. Oversharing
Your weekend party selfies and detailed dating antics may seem harmless and fascinating … to you.
But too much sharing of details and events may give people the impression you are narcissistic and overly in need of attention.
Worse, any inappropriate stories highlight your immaturity and lack of discretion. Always leave people wanting more.
The easiest way to assess is to tease a story, and then see if they ask you for more detail.
2. Complaining
It’s good to have an office environment where expressing your dissatisfaction is welcome and encouraged.
But some people complain about nearly everything without sincere justification.
Don’t let a poor attitude or even a bad day keep you from advancement and likeability.
Pick your battles and be a fixer, or find a constructive way to vent.
3. Lying or stealing
Some people think a little white lie is acceptable.
Everyone exaggerates their resume, right? Wrong! There are many people who actually believe any lying is unacceptable behavior.
The same goes for taking things that aren’t yours be they supplies or office trinkets.
Small unethical behavior is still unethical behavior, and if people witness you breaking the rules or the law openly in small ways, they will think that you are unethical elsewhere in bigger ways as well.
4. Slacking
Workdays are hard enough without having to pick up the extra slack for those who don’t carry their fair share of the load. People on the team know who is not pulling their weight.
Too many missed days can make your co-workers who are showing up regularly feel resentful. Put in the effort or find a job that truly motivates you.
5. Being late
Whether you are late to work, late to meetings, or late with deadlines, people tire of always having to wait for someone to show up.
It makes you appear selfish, unorganized, and disrespectful of other’s time.
There are plenty of tools to help you keep track of appointments. Make the effort or no one will trust you.
6. Sharing drama
No one has time for tantrums and excuses. Life can be a challenge for everyone at one time or another.
Having a problem or mild expression of emotion won’t hurt you the first time, but if a pattern develops, people will avoid you like the plague.
7. Gossiping
People may enjoy hearing you dish salaciously about what’s going on with Susie’s promotion or Bill’s marriage, but at the same time they are judging you. They are saying to themselves that this person cannot be trusted with sensitive information.
8. Being coarse
Cussing is common today on TV and even in the office, but that doesn’t make it acceptable in people’s minds.
Dropping the F-bomb publicly and telling risqué stories classifies you as uncouth and can keep you from those upscale meetings. A little polish and discretion goes a long way in building a respected image.
9. Dressing too casual
It’s great that many offices don’t require suit and tie anymore, but sweatpants and pajamas takes things a little far even for casual Friday.
It’s always better to dress at least one level better than is required.
You will feel more professional and people will admire you for your fashion sense.
10. Acting hypocritical
“Do as I say and not as I do” will not serve well as a way of helping others and it will diminish your authority quickly.
Lead by example. Adopt an attitude of being consistent and people will depend on you.
11. Blaming others
People appreciate and respect others who can take responsibility for their own actions and experience. Throwing others under the bus makes you look irresponsible and petty.
Leadership opportunities go to those who are accountable and can elevate others rather than tearing them down.
