Everyone has habits and areas that could use improving, but the biggest problem is that most of the time we don’t recognize these habits.
This can become a detrimental issue when your bad habits lead to bad relationships with your clients and fellow colleagues, or when they interfere with your company’s professionalism.
The following are some ways that you could be negatively affecting your office without knowing it –
1~ Being Late. Are you the person that frequently arrives to work meetings late and completely disorganized? Rather than give your boss another excuse, allow yourself an extra 30 minutes every morning. This time will help in case you run into traffic or can’t find a parking place, ensuring you arrive on time. Constant tardiness shows lack of respect for others, and puts added stress on you.
2~ Grooming Yourself at Your Desk. Using your desk to comb your hair, clip your toenails or pick your teeth is definitely a no-no. Most of these personal grooming practices should be done at home, but if necessary, in the privacy of the office restroom.
3~ Being a Slob. Having a desk that is completely covered with piles of papers and files is not only a sign that you’re disorganized, but can also give a vibe to others that you are unable to be trusted with big responsibilities. A clean desk is vital in the professional world, not only for the impression of colleagues, but to help you be more productive. Even if you have to stay late, take time to clean your desk, and try to keep it that way.
4~ Being Negative. There is no better way to frustrate co-workers than by having a negative attitude at work all the time. Learn to anticipate that problems and difficult situations will always arise, and confront them head on instead of complaining about everything. A positive attitude is catching, and will not only be helpful to your colleagues, but will help you to be more respected.
5~ Lying. If you have done something wrong, it’s typical human nature to try to cover your own back. It’s important at work, and in life, to not lose your credibility with a quick impulse to lie or cheat. Instead give others a reason to trust you, and always be honest, even if it means admitting your own wrong doings.
6~ Being a Flirt. Even if you find yourself very attracted to someone at the office, keep your comments, hands and flirtatious gestures to yourself. Sexual overtures only make others around you feel uncomfortable. Always practice self-control and be a good role model to others at work and save the flirting for evenings or weekends with friends.
7~ Showing Rude Behavior. Performing rude actions like folding your arms, rolling your eyes, and looking at your phone constantly when others are talking, can greatly influence everyone around you. Body language can often speak louder than words. Try to be conscious of how you appear in front of others. Show them that what they are saying is important to you.
8~ Over Promising. Don’t develop the bad reputation as someone who can’t fulfill their commitments. Be sure to always come through with colleagues and clients, and follow through with everything that you say you are going to. Always be dependable, and if necessary, make sure that you let others know in advance if your schedule changes.
9~ Showing Anger. Getting angry during difficult situations is something that is done by children. Doing this does not get you anywhere in the corporate world, and only shows others that you buckle under pressure. If you feel yourself losing control, try to take a short break from the situation. Stepping away briefly can work wonders. Learn ways to calm yourself down and to express your opinions rationally.
10~ Being a Loner. Even if you do your best thinking and work alone at your desk, don’t alienate others. Remember to schedule time for lunches and meetings with colleagues and clients too. Building a good network is very important.
Never let accidental bad habits ruin your professionalism. Taking the time to realize your mistakes and improve on them to help achieve positive results.
