We spend a large amount of time with co-workers, making it important to know how to get along well with all of them at work and while off the clock, too.
Keep It Professional
It’s no surprise to cross paths with a co-worker with whom you share common hobbies, went to the same school, root for the same sports team, or even own the same breed of dog.These ties make it natural to become friendly, but tone it down during work hours so supervisors and other co-workers don’t become concerned that the friendship is adversely affecting your work performance. Be discreet about attending the big game together, hosting a barbeque this coming weekend, or sharing vacation photos or videos during office hours.
Targeted Emails
Work-related emails must be professional and appropriate. There is never any good reason to send a work email to show non-work-related photos, share a recipe, complain about your dog getting too many snacks, or, worst of all, attempt to make another co-worker look bad.If an email needs to be sent to a group, take care not to include those for whom it isn’t relevant. Don’t email “all” unless it is something that truly needs to be shared with everyone. The same applies to “Reply All.” Unless there’s a legitimate, business-related reason to do so, don’t over-share.
Lunchroom Foraging
It can be tempting to do a little bit of virtual shopping as you place your lunch in the break room refrigerator, but “taking just a bite” of Brenda’s quiche or “borrowing just a little bit” of Jamie’s coffee creamer or any other items in there is rude and morally wrong.Consider how you’d feel if you sat down to eat or make a fresh mug of coffee only to discover your main course was a bit smaller than you remembered, or the creamer container was suddenly empty. And if you use the last of the ice cubes, take seven seconds to refill the tray.
Shopping at Work
Office supplies are available to ensure that all workers have the tools needed to conduct everyday business, not for personal use.We all know that co-worker who rummages through the supply closet to help their child complete a last-minute school project. They also “borrow” batteries to keep the kid’s remote-control car going, and can be found in the break room helping themselves to paper towels, napkins, paper plates, or other items for use at their weekend barbeque.
If you notice any of these actions, don’t confront the person. Instead, quietly advise your boss and let them handle it.
Be a Team Player
As long as your boss approves, it’s important to help co-workers if they request assistance. It’s also just plain human kindness to offer a helping hand if you notice a co-worker struggling to complete a project, or carrying a large package into the office.After a company function, help with the cleanup tasks instead of rushing back to your office—unless you are under a tight deadline, in which case, run!
Don’t gossip about co-workers or their families. Unkind words always find a way to get back to the subject, and when they do, hard feelings will follow.
