Many of us have or will say something that makes our coworkers cringe.
Here are five things you say that make coworkers cringe:
1. “Shhh” Shushing a coworker is rude and unprofessional. If they entered your office talking loudly and you were already on a call, you could point to your phone, which send the message, “I’m on the phone, quiet please.” You could also say to the caller, “Excuse for a moment.” mute your phone and calmly inform the loud office guest that you’ll see them after your call.
If you receive a call that requires privacy or quiet, get up, walk away and find a spot where you won’t be bothering anyone.
2. Saying “My bad.” It’s okay if you are familiar with this coworker. Bravo for owning up to a mistake, however, this phrase is a frivolous way of merely acknowledging a mistake. It says nothing about how you intend to fix it, nor does it include an apology. If you insist on using this term, “My bad. I’m sorry that I forgot to submit my report. I can have it for you in an hour.” Another option is, “I’m sorry for causing you this delay. I’ll work on it right away.”
Acknowledge. Admit. Apologize. Omit excuses. And fix it.
3. Baring it all: Sharing some of our personal life is natural. As relationships develop among coworkers, often, more is shared. Some people don’t know what to keep to themselves and what to share. Whether verbally or photos,
- Disclosing details of your sexual rendezvous, is too much.
- Disclosing details of a trauma, is too much.
- Disclosing a drug addiction can put the burden on a coworker whether they need to disclose to HR or keep this secret. It could be life-saving to share this if you are seeking help.
- Disclosing your truth or opinions about other coworkers, is too much and unproductive.
- Disclosing your hygiene practices and why you believe bathing every other week is a good enough, is too much.
I think you get the picture. Making a coworker uncomfortable with this type of personal stuff, could get you dragged into HR for sharing these subject matters.
4. Borrowing or mooching: It is never wise to borrow money from coworkers. If it’s a couple of dollars for lunch and you pay back asap, okay. But if it’s to cover rent this month, heck no! Ask your friends or family before you ask a coworker. Being known as a moocher at work, will quickly result in your coworkers hiding from you, forgetting to include you at happy hour, and making excuses to end a conversation.
5. Threatening to quit; but you never do. Taking time at work to job search and not getting the task done. Talking about how great other companies are. Talking smack about everyone who still works “here.” Complaining when you get a task with a deadline. You think your job is beneath you. Working with this mindset won’t help you achieve much. But it will make your coworkers roll their eyes and secretly wish you would quit.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
We all have bad days or go through a temporary slump. Most coworkers will overlook it. However, when it becomes habitual, your reputation will quickly dwindle and your character will be revealed. Losing trust and rapport of your coworkers will make any workplace awkward and unpleasant. It’s time to reevaluate your situation, take courses, or look for a new career.
The above etiquette tips are general, subject to interpretation, specific circumstances, and personal perspective. There are always more options. If your concern is ongoing and/or escalating, seek professional assistance from a trusted source.
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