Whether you work in a traditional office setting or remotely, the amount of time spent on the job is considerable. To ensure a positive experience for both you and your employer, it’s crucial to maintain responsible, appropriate, and safe workplace behavior, and here we outline some key actions to avoid if you want to secure your position.
Disregarding Client Confidentiality
Depending on the type of work, client confidentiality can be a legal issue. Even if it’s not, releasing information about clients without their consent can lead to a loss of trust in the company. It’s, therefore, essential to manage sensitive information in the way that your company’s policies state.
Failing to Meet Performance Standards
You’ll need to meet the performance standard that has been set by your line manager in order to show that you are an engaged and hard working member of the team. If you’re struggling, speak to your manager as soon as possible so you can put help in place together.
Engaging in Workplace Bullying
According to the University of Mary Washington, examples of bullying in the workplace include “intimidating or undermining employees by demeaning their work standards, not giving them credit, setting them up for failure and constantly reminding them of old mistakes.” This kind of behavior can create a toxic environment for everyone and, in some cases, lead to legal disputes.
Ignoring Company Policies
Most employers will have a number of policies in place to protect you, your colleagues, and the interests of the business. It’s common for employees to ignore policies on internet usage, data privacy or attendance, but this could result in disciplinary action. Make sure you regularly review your employee handbook to stay informed.
Poor Time Management
Always being late to meetings or failing to meet deadlines on time can irritate others in your team and lead to job loss. To improve your time management skills, Harvard Business Review suggests you try to consider how long each task will take you and schedule enough time to complete them.
Misusing Company Property
Often, the technology or other property belonging to a company is expensive; therefore, taking it offsite or using it for your personal projects could be seen as inappropriate, and in some cases, even theft. If you want to make use of company equipment for something outside of your normal role, make sure you get approval from your line manager.
Submitting Inaccurate Expense Reports
Deliberately submitting fake expenses is considered to be an act of fraud and can lead to legal action. Take time to read through your expense form, ensuring it is accurate, and that you’ve supplied the necessary receipts. If you are unsure about something, check with a colleague or line manager before submitting.
Violating Safety Protocols
Ignoring the safety measures your company has put in place could result in injury to you or a colleague, potentially resulting in legal action. It is essential to keep updated on safety protocols, so be sure to attend any training sessions you are asked to.
Miscommunication with Team Members
Ineffective communication with your colleagues can lead to errors being made, missing opportunities, or simply not working well together. BetterUp says good communication “boosts employee morale, engagement, productivity, and satisfaction. Communication is also key for better team collaboration and cooperation.” Make sure you actively listen to those around you and take an active part in conversations.
Excessive Personal Phone Use
Phones can be distracting, so regularly picking them up to scroll through social media or message a friend can reduce your productivity. Many companies ask you to only use your phone during break times or in the event of an emergency, so try to turn it off or put it away in between times.
Neglecting Professional Development
If you don’t stretch yourself at work, you risk your skills and knowledge becoming outdated. It can be hard work, but taking part in courses or staying updated with industry trends can help you stay ahead. Notion says it requires a “balance between managing your typical responsibilities and dedicating time and energy toward your new objective without losing momentum on either front.
Poor Email Etiquette
When you are sending an email to a colleague, client, or other stakeholder, it is important to ensure it is clear, concise, and free of errors. If you consistently send inappropriate or careless emails, you show a lack of professionalism, which could result in disciplinary action.
Inappropriate Social Media Use
While your social media is personal, if you post inappropriate content that reflects badly on the company, it could lead to disciplinary action. Make sure to read through your employee handbook and take time to consider any social media guidelines, especially regarding confidentiality and behavior.
Ignoring Dress Code
Each company has its own dress code, and not following it can not only lead to disciplinary action but also impact your professional image. By dressing appropriately, you show respect for others around you and the workplace as a whole. If your company’s dress code is unclear, speak with HR to find out about any specifics.
Ignoring Supervisors
Refusing to follow your line manager’s orders can lead to immediate dismissal, so if you disagree with their instructions, try to arrange a meeting where you can respectfully explain your thoughts. You can also speak to HR and arrange some mediation between yourself and your line manager.
Compromising Data Security
Personal information and other sensitive data need to be handled properly, and this should be set out in your workplace policies as well as in your IT security policies. Not taking care of this information could lead to a data breach, which may result in legal penalties or losing the trust of your clients.
Substance Abuse at Work
Using drugs or alcohol can impair your ability to carry out your work properly and safely, potentially leading to accidents. Most companies have strict policies against substance abuse during work hours, so it’s essential to comply. If you are struggling with addiction, make sure you talk to your manager or HR team to see if there is any support available.
Overlooking Continuous Improvement Opportunities
Technology is constantly improving, and this means it is more important than ever to stay up to date. Taking part in courses, workshops, or other training can ensure that your skills and knowledge stay relevant, as well as give you career progression opportunities.
