Some coworkers earn the title of being a team player, friendly, or someone that can be counted on. While others earn the title of grouch or just unpleasant to be around.
Everyone has a bad day now and then. Coworkers will overlook it knowing that it’s just one of the days for you. But what about the coworker who consistently shows up in a bad mood, has mood swings, or always has to be right?
Here are several ways to earn ‘least likely to be invited to happy hour’:
Entering the Building
- Did you hold the door for the person behind you?
- Did you thank the person who held the elevator for you?
- Are you on the phone continuing the argument you had with your partner this morning?
- Does your walk say, get outta my way?
You’ve Arrived
- Do your coworkers scurry to avoid you?
- Do you greet coworkers with, “What a miserable morning!”
- Do you work on your personal drama or update your socials instead of doing your job?
Attending the Meeting
- Do you stroll in late?
- Do you ask questions that were addressed at the start of the meeting, which you missed?
- Do you interrupt, correct, or challenge the speaker?
- Does your posture indicate respect or boredom?
Coworker Relationships
- Do you scroll through your phone or loudly sigh during conversations?
- Do you gossip?
- Do you act and talk as though you’re better, more deserving, and underpaid?
- Do you reply only when you feel like it or not at all because you don’t feel like it?
FINAL THOUGHTS
A grouchy personality gets on people’s nerves. Your coworkers might figure out a way to avoid you. But word spreads, sometimes all the way up to the boss. And then you wonder why you don’t get promoted, you’re the first to get laid off, or they don’t approve your request to lead a project.
It’s never too late to reevaluate your habits and demeanor. Why are you miserable? Envy? Bitterness towards others? Figure it out and make a change!
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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