Pull the frills apart and the workplace is nothing more than an adult sandbox. There are a few who bond well, a few who choose to stay aloof, a couple of bullies and some who stay to themselves. How do you work with them all?
Mom knows best! We tell you how her catchphrases can help you at work.
Who do you think you’re talking to?
What you say and how you put it across is extremely important at the workplace. Whether it’s a leader, a colleague or a junior team member, speak – and listen – with respect.
Play nice
It’s not possible that you will like everyone you work with. And you don’t need to. Be tolerant, show respect, play fair and never foster unnecessary conflict.
Mind your manners
Leaders who have the job of creating a cohesive culture within the organization would do well to follow this mantra. So would the rest of the team. It’s what makes the workplace a nice place to be!
Anything worth having is worth working for
Tough assignments, long hours, crabby colleagues…but stick with them you must for success does not and cannot come overnight.
Stand in a corner and think about what you did
If you feel like you’re barking up the wrong tree – be it with a colleague or a project – a timeout may give you the time to reflect and sort things out in your mind.
‘I don’t know’ is not an answer
Saying “I don’t know”, be it in a one-on-one or a group setting, sends out the message that you’re incompetent or uninformed. You can “not know” but word it better: Try “That’s a timely question as I’m currently gathering XYZ information” or “Super question but I’m not familiar enough with ABC right now. Let me connect you with… .”
I’m going to give you until the count of three
In a world where not everybody seems to take deadlines seriously, it’s important that you do. Setting and maintaining deadlines – for yourself and team members – shows that you are professional, respect others and take pride in doing your job well and on time.
Do unto others…
This oft-quoted biblical passage says it all when it comes to behavior and comportment at the workplace. As Richard Branson said: “There’s no magic formula for great company culture. The key is just to treat your staff how you would like to be treated.”
Don’t judge a book by its cover
Not everything that’s different is bad. Diversity in the workplace – whether it is age, gender, ethnicity, physical ability, sexual orientation or work experience –brings together different perspectives and gifts.
If everyone jumped into a well, would you?
Don’t follow the pack just because everyone else is doing it. Aligning your attitudes, beliefs and behavior with those around you is fine in small doses but don’t let the herd mentality stop you from thinking out of the box.
Finish your homework before you play
If you didn’t do it as a child, live by this maxim now. Setting priorities, making to-do lists for the next day and planning your work will make getting the job done easier.
Moms always say, “You can do anything you put your mind and heart into.” There can be no better career advice!
