| By Cristina Scalzo |
Walking into a new job with a new boss and new co-workers can be daunting. You may be unsure of what to wear or how to act within the office. Although every work place differs in environment and expectation, there are a few standard points of work etiquette that every employee should follow.
• First and foremost, always reach the office on time. This does not mean screeching into your parking space right at 8:00 if that is when you are supposed to start. It does mean that you should be ready to work when you are expected to be there. In order to do this you may need to arrive a few minutes early to get settled, grab coffee, and be at your desk on time. This simple act shows that you are a disciplined worker who can manage your time well.
• Keep your cell phone on silent. It is one thing for your work phone to ring during the day, but an entirely different thing for your “Hotline Bling” or “It’s a Wonderful World” ringtone to go off during work hours. Everyone can hear it, and everyone knows you are not on task.
• Master the art of sending emails. No matter who your email is directed to, always keep it professional and concise. Even if others in the office use slang or incorrect grammar in their emails, you shouldn’t. Composing your emails in a correct way discreetly alludes to the respect you have for that person and the effort and professionalism you put into your work. Include a clear subject line and make sure to identify yourself – you cannot expect the reader to know who you are based off of your email address. Lastly, keep your emails short and to the point by using short paragraphs and bullet points.
• Stay respectful. The workplace can sometimes get a little nasty- especially when there is a new job opening or the potential for a promotion. There are a few ways to stay above the drama and distinguish yourself as a person of respect. Never open other people’s mail or look at someone’s email. Privacy is important and violating that is disrespectful. Also, stay away from controversies. Never start or pass on a rumor about your boss, co-workers, interns etc. Lastly, respect your fellow workers by helping them when needed and never knowingly giving them bad advice or suggestions.
The question of whether you can wear tennis shoes or not will need to be figured out on your own, but hopefully following these general guidelines will help you feel a little more at ease when entering a new workplace.