Resolve Recruit Inc. (www.ResolveRecruit.com), a leading provider of recruiting services across the Greater Toronto Area, is weighing in on workplace etiquette and practices that new employees should avoid.
According to a recent article by Examiner.com, there are specific behaviours that, when demonstrated by new employees, could cause employers to questions the new employee’s work ethic. (Source: Hassan, W., “Things new employees shouldn’t do at the workplace,” Examiner.com, November 16, 2015; http://www.examiner.com/article/things-new-employees-shouldn-t-do-at-the-workplace.)
One behaviour that often raises red flags with employers is when employees take time off within the first few months of starting a new job, even if the vacation days are provided. Although it may not be against company policy, it raises questions about an employee’s commitment.
“The main exception to this is when the vacation was something laid out and cleared prior to accepting employment or if it is due to something unexpected, like needing to take care of a sick relative,” says Kim Muir, Managing Director at Resolve Recruit Inc. “But for the most part, it is best to treat the first few months of a new job as if the job interview is still going on. This means always putting one’s best foot forward.”
Another common mistake new employees make is getting too comfortable too soon, which can negatively affect how they are perceived by employers and coworkers alike. Sharing horror stories of past jobs or complaining about each other or their bosses is one example of this.
“Although complaining may be a traditional watercooler activity, it is rooted in a sense of camaraderie and shared experience, as well as goodwill between coworkers,” says Muir. “If a new employee hasn’t yet established this with his or her coworkers, complaining about anything, for that matter, could make people question an employee’s professionalism.”
It is useful to avoid volunteering overly personal information or getting too involved in office gossip. This also includes refraining from raunchy or potentially offensive or insulting jokes
“Some workplaces do have a culture of friendly ribbing and the like, but it is best to assume political correctness is the norm until proven otherwise,” says Muir. “It will take some time before a new member of the team moves from ‘stranger’ to ‘coworker’ and this period needs to be respected.”
Lastly, less damaging but still an important activity to avoid is eating at one’s desk. This may be a common practice in a workplace, however, eating at one’s desk means employees are not interacting with coworkers in the break room.
“Without these interactions, it’s more difficult to get to know people and vice versa,” concludes Muir. “Taking the time to connect and interact with coworkers even during small moments like lunch or coffee breaks helps to create stronger working relationships.”
Resolve Recruit Inc. helps job seekers find both temporary and permanent positions, and can help new employees incorporate these tips into their first few months of a job. For more information on Resolve Recruit Inc., visit www.ResolveRecruit.com.
