Relationships in the workplace are an important aspect of your professional life. A pleasant and productive atmosphere provides the support that is needed to advance your career, as well as making your time in the office more enjoyable.
To strengthen these bonds between you and your colleagues, offering a lending hand when needed does not go unnoticed. However, some actions that you make may have a detrimental effect on these relationships. Andrew Morris, Director, Robert Half Hong Kong highlights bad habits that could be affecting your relationship with your colleagues, and how to avoid them:
Sharing too much information—too often
Taking an interest in your colleague’s personal lives is important when building relationships however revealing too much information, too often, will affect your reputation. Be sure not to divulge on the recent family spat or your marital issues to colleagues who asked about the weekend by the water cooler.
Personal internet usage at work
It is important to take a break from your work regularly, however, many companies monitor Internet and e-mail use and can quickly and easily spot unproductive employees. Surfing on non-work-related websites or making personal calls during office hours will attract the attention of not only your superiors, but also your co-workers, who may be taking on extra work as a result of your inefficiency.
Reliance on technology to communicate your every need
Although technology is an extremely useful form of communication, excessive text or e-mail messaging, particularly regarding trivial things, can be inefficient and disruptive to co-workers. Place a call or arrange an in-person discussion to resolve issues quickly and ensure that you are both in agreement.
Commenting on co-workers' weaknesses
When highlighting your skills and accomplishments, it is important not to emphasise others downfalls and shortcomings. Commenting on your co-workers will only create a negative atmosphere in your office and will earn you a negative reputation.
Favouritism
From the department Vice President to the intern, it is important to treat every one with a level of respect and courtesy. The most respected and well-liked professionals treat everyone equally. Do not speak down to junior staff or favour your superiors.
Coming to work sick
Arriving at work when you are unwell is of no benefit to yourself or your colleagues. As well as affecting your productivity you may be at risk of infecting your colleagues. If you must attend to work-related tasks while ill, ask your boss about working from home or attend the work in an area of the office where you’ll be far removed from other employees.
Sometimes it takes just one bad habit to spoil your professional standing with co-workers. Avoiding these actions will help prevent good relations from turning sour and will help maintain your professional image within the HR community.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
