How to Keep it Together at Your Job (Pt. II)

It's Okay to Ask for Clarification:

   If your understanding of something is muddy, ask for an explanation. It's better to do that and then do it right, than find out later and have to redo it and/or do damage control. I hate damage control.

Limit How Much of Your Personal Life You Share:

   If you limit your personal information spouting (and I am very guilty of the opposite of this) some may accuse you of being snobby, unfriendly, or just plain mean. Despite that, you don't owe anyone an explanation or information about your personal life. Depending of the type of information, it could be used against you someday (very conspiracy minded, I know.) On the more likely side, there are just certain people that you don't want to know that much about your home life. A little mystery is good.

Follow the Dress Code:

   'Nuff said.

Keep the Lines of Communication Open:

   This goes for co-workers, and to the higher-ups (or lower-downs as the case may be.) Know the power structure, and who you need to go to if something happens. If there is a policy that needs to be changed, make sure that the need is known. Most of the problems that I run into at work, and daily life, would never have happened if people would actually talk with each other. Stay updated, even if you have to jump through some hoops. It won't hurt you, and it may save your job.

 

Take Initiantive:
   If something has to be done, do it. Don't wait around for someone else to because it will never get done. Ever. No, it doesn't have to become a part of your job, but if there is coffee spilled on the counter, wipe it up. It will take all of 30 seconds, and make sure that you don't accidentally set your elbow in it. Benefit for the office; benefit for you! This is called a win-win... Not everyone takes this approach, but if they did, jobs would be much more pleasant.

Be Genuine:
   Nothing is more annoying than having someone be false to your face. Don't pretend to be something you're not. It's tiring, and irritating for everyone around you. +5 points for each person that you accidentally let the charade slip in front of. They may just think you're off your rocker though. Cool.

Keep Boundaries:
   It is your life. You are not obligated to cross boundaries to things that conflict with your morals, or personal views. This goes for professional and personal interactions at your workplace. If people don't respect your boundaries, tough cheese for them. As long as your boundaries are set up for you, and not just to tick people off, they just have to be okay with it. If your job requires you to keep your boundaries on a sliding scale, it's time for a new job.

Keep You Resume Updated:
   You never know when someone may ask for it. You also never know when you may be out of a job. Always be prepared, like the Boy Scouts!

Always Take a Breath:

   Co-workers are annoying. Bosses, and customers can be too. Take a breath before you answer. Use that pause to calm yourself. You might save yourself more than you think you might think.