One wrong step at the workplace can put a brake on your ambitions. Here’s how to avert professional disasters. Whether you've snagged your first job or shifted to a new one recently, you need to follow work etiquette. For, a wrong word or a shoddy presentation may be akin to committing a career hara-kiri. Here are the habits and attitudes that are a strict no-no.
1 I don’t need to be punctual: Timing is essential. You're a professional now and a 'sorry, my brother spilt milk over my homework' excuse isn't going to work. Your assignment should be finished before the deadline, with enough time to spare, so that you can polish it. Unlike college, a 'C' grade-even once-does matter. If you disappoint your seniors, getting another chance is tough. If your office doesn't run on a 9-to-5 schedule, ensure that you have a fixed time for coming in and leaving, so you can be available during those hours.
2 I want everything, now: Instant gratification may be your buzzword, but it's not going to work at office. You cannot accumulate five years worth of experience in one year, nor can you get the hefty salaries your senior colleagues do. You will only get what your employers believe you're worth. "In the initial stages, don't mix career and money. Your priority should be the job profile based on your capabilities, which will help you hone your skills and grow. Once you're established, the money will come," says Nidhi Gaur, head, HR, Wiley India. Just putting in your best may not be enough. Your efforts will also have to be fruitful. "If you expect more compensation, the worth of the individual should increase along with the cost," says Sunil Goel, CEO, GlobalHunt, an HR firm.
3 This is all I’m going to do: If you stick rigidly to your job description, you may miss out on opportunities to be noticed. Take up tasks beyond the routine ones, especially those that can demonstrate your untapped talents. This also proves that you're willing to take initiative. If you are new, you may get saddled with jobs that others don't want or hours nobody else is willing to put in. If you grumble at being given extra work, it may put off your superiors.
4 I’m the only one who made it a success: No man is an island, especially not in crowded cubicles. In an office, you need to work as a team. If you do well, give credit where it's due, especially to your juniors. Even if you don't get along with someone, be polite. There's no place for anger or tantrums at the workplace. Remember, your electronic mails are being sent through your employer's server, so badmouthing someone on mail or chats in the office could lead to an embarrassing fiasco.
5 What’s a network? Even a genius could hit a roadblock. This is when your network of peers will come to your rescue as you can take their advice. It also helps you stay abreast of the latest issues in your field. Keep in touch with college mates, mingle during conferences and functions, and join a professional networking site.
6 I know everything there is to know: No job is secure forever. The business landscape is changing constantly and if you don't want to be a dinosaur, you'll have to upgrade your skills regularly. You need to stay on a par with colleagues and others vying for your job. Don't expect past accomplishments to suffice. Learn constantly, especially from your mistakes. If a senior corrects you, don't sulk or complain. You'll not only exasperate your boss, but end up repeating your mistake.
7 I’m irreplaceable, I deserve that promotion: If you believe you are the only one who can do the job right, back your conviction with accomplishments. Before you jump at the chance to be promoted, ask yourself: am I prepared for it? A promotion not only means more professional responsibilities, but also changes in personal life. Make sure you are ready to shoulder these. If you aren't, the step may backfire and destroy chances of future promotions. Don't promise to get something done without ensuring that it is achievable.
News Article in Times of India, on 11th April 2011 by Namrata Dadwal
