7 things to NOT DO at Work
As a recruiter I hear often hear from managers who are frustrated with their staff. Below is a list compiled over the years of their most frequently voiced Pet Peeves.
Take a look at the list below. Place a check by work habits that might apply to you, and STOP doing them today. Your boss will notice and appreciate the changes you have made. Even if they don’t overtly notice or say anything, you’re likely to reap the benefits of better performance, crisper focus and happier working relationships.
1) Don’t tell your boss about every crisis.
Your boss will figure you can’t handle stress. Next time a problem crops up, take a breath and come up with at least one viable solution. If you do have to involve your boss, state the problem succinctly and share how you might fix it.
2) Don’t miss deadlines.
If a deadline is end of day Tuesday, first thing Wednesday morning won’t cut it. Your boss needs someone they can depend on. Missing deadlines can wreak havoc on other’s schedules and make your boss look bad. When making commitments it’s best to under-promise and over-deliver.
3) Don’t disappear from the office.
Leaving for more than half a day with out telling a higher-up how to reach you is inexcusable. Always provide a contact number.
4) Don’t send 10-page emails.
Time is of the essence. Clearly state your topic in the “Subject” line and write concisely. If you cannot be clear in a small space, call the person instead.
5) Don’t keep your cell phone on during meetings.
There is nothing more obnoxious than someone’s cell phone ringing during a meeting. Turn your phone off, or at least turn off the ringer and don’t let it vibrate on a hard surface.
6) Don’t not take notes during meetings.
Not taking notes during meetings is highly unprofessional. Always carry a pad of paper and a pen with you (or a laptop or PDA, whatever is the accepted protocol in your workplace) and use them.
7) Don’t be a Prima Donna.
Clashing with others and taking shots at teammates is never a good idea; it makes you look bad. Show you are a team player by making your boss look like a star and demonstrate you have the greater good of the organization at heart. If others aren’t pulling their weight, it will come out. Focus on what you can do, not what others can’t.
Your Boss’ Pet Peeves…
Connie Dorigan, Founder and Director of Recruiting, sees the food processing industry as the link between good living and good people. She’s the west coast’s most experienced and trusted food processing recruiter. She also provides Executive and Career Coaching and lots of free job search tools. Once you’ve connected with Connie, you’ll always be connected.
© 2018 Connie Dorigan. All rights reserved.
This is a general interest article and does not constitute specific or legal advice.
