Schools out! For some, permanently. Yup, time to enter the workforce. Become a productive member of society. Earn a living. Move out of mom and dad’s house. It’s a scary time for some of our kids. But remember back to when you started on your own. We were used to the rules of the education world, but now we have to learn a new set of rules for the workplace. Every workplace in every field of work has its own set of rules. Some workplaces require a tie and jacket. Some only require their employees to be clothed in more than their birthday suits. But some basic rules span ALL work environments.
Most of these can be found in the rules of etiquette and are relatively simple. For instance, it’s wise not to talk about politics, religion, or sex at work. These three can trigger arguments and bad feelings with coworkers. DO NOT bring your personal life to work with you. Keep relationship troubles to yourself. Don’t talk about the parties you went to last weekend especially if they led to you getting drunk or doing crazy, stupid stuff. And be sure you’re speaking respectfully to EVERYONE. This includes everyone from your boss to your peers to those who report to you to your customers. Just today I was trying to make a medical appointment and the young lady at the doctor’s office was condescending, short with me, and told me I said things I most certainly didn’t say (specifically the name of my insurance which I read RIGHT OFF THE CARD). If you don’t recall, I’m a Registered Nurse and know how this stuff is supposed to work. I calmly told her “I am feeling that you are speaking to me very condescendingly and without respect” and that I would call back later. I hung up and called another doctor’s office instead. She just LOST a customer for that doctor’s practice. I was not treated with dignity and respect.
The main point is to learn the rules of your workplace (and of course, your job), follow them, and treat everyone with dignity and respect. And keep your personal life personal. If you do this your working career will be much easier and success will follow you.