Do's and Don'ts in the Workplace

Once you have landed your dream job, you have to become accustomed to your new surroundings.  The facts is, is that you will now be spending most of your time at the office with your colleagues. It is very important that you feel comfortable, but also not too comfortable to the point where you impose on others.

According to the article, Do's and Don'ts for Surviving the Workplace, written by Mykal Sullivan, there are several things people should be aware of when working around others.   Mykal, states the following Do's and Don'ts in the workplace:

DO: Keep you desk clutter free, and professional looking.  Remember, your desk is a true representation of who you are as a person. As well studies have shown that if two people with the same qualifications were up against each other for a promotion, the one with the cleaner desk will most likely get it.
DONT: Have piles of clutter on your desk, to the point where it takes five minutes to find one thing for your boss.  Also don't buy cheap decorations for your desk, as it just looks tacky.

DO: Bring small heater or fan to put under your desk.  Be sure to first ask your boss if this is OK.
DONT: Bring anything that will change the temperature so much that the person next to you is affected by it.

DO: Be generous to others, and allow others to borrow stationary supplies if they need to.  Work with your colleagues as a team, and not just as an individual. It is important to remember simple things, such as sharing.
DONT: Label everything you have on your desk with your name on it.  Don't be impatient when waiting for the photocopier or printer (Sullivan, n.d.).

These do's and don'ts are just a few examples of what you will be faced with in the workplace.  The key things to remember are:

• Be positive, friendly, and open minded
• Think of others around you
• Don't participate in workplace gossip
• Remember your manners
• Support others

If everyone in the workplace treats others with respect, then the office environment can be a very pleasant place.  Remember, you will be a member in creating the organizational culture of the company you will be working for.  Make it as positive as you can.