Getting a Job - Workplace Etiquette

Untag and blur pictures and videos. The Internet nowadays is a valuable tool in which people can easily run your name through a search engine and hit millions of results. As you get older and join the workforce, the image you project to your colleagues, employers and such will be extremely important. It is hard to balance your personal life with your work life sometimes, especially at parties when cameras are flashing everywhere. However, refrain from uploading pictures and videos of yourself in inappropriate, offensive or provocative manners that may lead to unwanted attention. You never know who may be on your profile and catch a glimpse of picture you are tagged in. Behaviors in the past and/or present usually dictate behaviors in the future so protect your image.

Google yourself. Do a rigorous Web search on your name and see what information about you is available online. Remove yourself from online phonebook services if you do not want people to call you or find out where you live.

What you post online stays online... for everyone to see. And that includes blogs, wall comments, pictures, videos etc. Be careful what you say online. If it’s something you wouldn’t want your parents, teachers or predators to see, don’t post it up! Get your friends’ approval before posting something about them or uploading their picture online and check what your friends are posting about you.

Do not gossip. Gossiping leads to trouble, especially in the business world. A small word from one ear to the other couldn't hurt, right? Don't take chances with your source of income. 

Socialize with others. It is a good idea to "fit in" and be able to with the existing staff. Make small talk here and there so that you are not perceived as cold and hard to talk with. 

Be considerate of others. If your colleague is allergic to your certain type of perfume, find another type to spray on. Don't interrupt others when they're working or enter other people's offices without asking. If you need people to help you with a task, give them enough time to fit it into their schedules. 

Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you don't understand something or need help, don't be afraid to help. It's better to get things straight than to cause a mess later on.

Avoid excessive absenses and lateness. If you're running late or you know you will be absent, call in to let your boss know ahead of time. If you're planning a vacation that you know a few weeks in advance, ask your boss if that's okay with her or him.

Try not to take things personally. Everybody has hectic days. If your boss is busy and you had a meeting planned with her or him, don't get upset. Simply ask to reschedule the meeting. When people are under a lot of stress, they tend to focus more on work and less on staff relationships.

Be a team player. Be flexible. Give credit when working in groups; your teammates will be happy that you recognize and share credit so they'll be more likely to help you the next time you need it.

Don't forget your manners. Smile, say hello, please and thank you. Don't curse or use slang in the office.

The boss is always right...or wrong. But regardless, she or he always has the last word no matter what.

Only use resources for work-related tasks. Remember to put everything back and clean up after you're done.

Be positive and professional. Stay motivated. Treat others with respect and learn to work with your colleagues. Don't show up late for work or take long breaks. 

Complain, as long as you can recommend. Who likes a whiner? Complaining, to most people, can be considered the first step to solving a situation. However, don't stop there! If you are going to complain to your boss, make sure you have something to recommend to fix the problem. If you hate your task assignments, it's hard to project a positive attitude. Instead, perform the menial tasks such as making coffee or bringing the newspaper, especially if you are just starting out, and then discuss with your boss for other work. 

Pay attention and listen. Listen to others when they are explaining something to you. If you still do not understand, ask them to clarify again. If that still does not work, try asking around or doing some research on your part. If that does not work, be honest and ask for help. 

Keep your personal life away from you workplace. It may tempting to discuss romantic dates with colleagues as your response to "How was your weekend?" but don't do it, even if it is in the elevator. Bringing your personal issues into the office causes disruptions and may cost you your job.