Things You Should Never Do on the Job

By Dennis McCafferty | Posted 2013-09-12

It doesn't matter if you're the new kid on the block or a seasoned veteran at your organization; everybody makes mistakes at some points during their career. Such mistakes are forgivable—assuming they don't result in a disaster that costs the company a fortune. What's not so easily excused, however, is displaying a repeated pattern of undesirable or boorish behavior that negatively affects your colleagues, managers and customers. That's why we're presenting the following list of things you should never do on the job. Some of these no-no's demonstrate a lack of professional awareness, while others convey serious attitude issues. And e-etiquette comes into play in a few of these areas. A number of these observations may come as news to you, while others will likely serve as refreshers. But everyone—regardless of experience or job title—can use reminders every now and then. These guidelines are based on research from selected advice and career sites, including Buzzle.com and CareerBuilder.com.

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Refuse a Request as "Not My Job"

Rigidly defined roles are out. Making a variety of contributions as a team member is in.
Show Up Late for a Customer

In fact, consider anything less than five minutes early as being late.
Trash Co-Workers or Bosses

Don't say or email anything you'd be unable to defend if confronted by that person.
Confuse "Fair" With "Equal"

Being fair means treating everyone justly for the work they deliver.
Initiate Texting With a Manager

Unless the manager texts you first or asks you to communicate that way, texting is too informal.
Say "That's Not How We Did It!"

You're not at your old job anymore, so focus on your current employer's practices and policies.
Inflate Expectations

If you create unrealistic expectations, anything less than amazing will be disappointing.
Take Communications Shortcuts

Even texts and emails should maintain a professional standard of clarity, grammar, spelling and proper use of the language.
Send Emails When Angry

After writing an email draft, walk away and calm down. Then review it again before sending it.
Ask a Colleague if She's Pregnant

If she is, it's her choice of when to let people know. If she isn't, you've just insulted her. So MYOB.
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