Most of us have common sense. At least, I think we do! Common sense tells us that we can't show up to work in our pajamas, take a day off without permission, or borrow our co-workers car without her knowledge. However, there are certain things that we shouldn't really do at work that many of us do, either because we don't pay attention to what we're doing or because we don't realize how it looks. Here are 9 top things never to do at work.
1. Look Sloppy
Most of us know better than to show up in sweats, but your favorite worn out sweater with picks all over it or your scuffed up flats that lost their shine two years ago should be in the same category as sweats. A good rule to follow is to never dress better than your boss, but never worse. You can find that happy medium. Black is always safe and in order to keep it from looking too much like a funeral you can add pops of color here and there. And don't get sloppy with your attitude either. You may have been at your workplace for the past five years but that doesn't earn you the right to walk all over others! Treat them the way you would want to be treated!
2. Using Office Time For Personal Time
This includes texting, calling friends, emailing, or working on your menu for next week. Unless you have permission to do these things or you work in an office where you do nothing but stare at the wall and arrange the paper clips into odd shapes all day, these things are not acceptable. I was blessed with a very understanding boss at the last public job I worked. My boyfriend at the time (now husband) was deployed and we only got a certain amount of time to talk on the phone per week. Usually it was on a weekday early in the morning. My boss gave me permission to slip outside and take his calls anytime of the day! I realize that may not be possible with every job, but never assume you have permission. Ask for it, and if it's not given, do your best to keep a cool attitude about it.
