Career Advice Blog

If the esteemed corner office isn’t yet yours, you are likely instead stuck in an inner office cubicle. Oh the joys, right? Open workspaces, while convenient in many regards, also leave the door wide open for coworker conflicts. Reset your office habits with these tips for proper workspace etiquette to ensure you aren’t the cause of the next cubicle war. Mind your Eating Manners Most adult workers revert to toddler-like behaviors when exposed to the food of their coworkers at lunchtime. After seeing or smelling your meal, most coworkers will instantly want to eat as well and will throw a temper tantrum if that isn’t immediately possible.  Mind your eating manners by containing your lunch to the break room, especially if the meal is wafting delicious aromas. Only enjoy tempting treats at your cubicle if you’re prepared to share or if you’re cool with handling the wraths of hungry coworkers. Avoid Loud Music Coworkers don’t care about the latest … [Read more...] about The Cubicle Wars: Proper Etiquette for the Open Workspace

You have no doubt fretted about the judgments employers will place on you in upcoming job interviews. In the haze of that worry, you’ve also likely overlooked the fact that you too can place judgment on potential employers. Don’t feel as if you must accept the first measly job offer you are given. Instead, hold out for the best offer by reviewing these five qualities your first employer should possess. Patience While you may have the best of intentions, as a career newbie, you are sure to make a few mistakes during your first few months on the job. Employers hiring entry level applicants should have the patience to handle those mistakes and the guidance to help you navigate through them. While a potential employer’s patience level can be difficult to measure in a job interview, look for insights into the interviewer’s personality through the interview. Also, search for information online regarding the interviewer that may help you judge the type of person they are known for being … [Read more...] about 5 Qualities Your First Employer Should Possess

Everyone has a personal brand and whether you work for yourself, for someone else or are going into an interview, having a personal brand is important. Not every personal brand is depicted as a positive one, in fact in many cases, people don’t realize that their personal brand is an extension of them that is found in both professional and personal lives and may have negative connotations. To change a negative image or to further develop a positive personal brand, read and follow these eight tips. Be Honest First and foremost, the saying that “honesty is the best policy” is 100 percent true. Being honest in personal relationships, professional settings and even when you are by yourself is very important to your personal branding. If someone were to describe you, you wouldn’t want the first thing out of their mouth to be how dishonest they think you are. Honesty is the building block to a successful personal brand and it allows for the rest of the personal branding tips to follow.  … [Read more...] about 8 Tips for Successful Personal Branding

Being bored at work might seem like a good problem to have for some people but, if you are bored in your job you will know it can be stressful and have as significant a negative impact as being overworked. So, how do you cope with workplace boredom and use the time wisely? Clear Your Work Space You could use the time you have available to clear email, clean the desk, phone and keyboards etc. When you are busy it is harder to find the time to do these kinds of jobs! Look for Training & Learning Opportunities You could volunteer to help in another department or look at ways to learn and expand your skills. Create your Own Challenges  You could create challenges for yourself like time trials for getting your work done or customers served! This can be a real motivator, especially in jobs that you are finding routine. Ask for a Promotion Being bored at work might be a sign that you have outgrown your previous position and a need a new challenge. Step up and ask your … [Read more...] about Bored at Work? How to Use Your Time Wisely

What etiquette in the workplace means can vary between workplaces, however there are common situations where knowledge of workplace etiquette that can help you get ahead and avoid making a slip up! Be Discreet and Don't Gossip One of the things that can be a real turn off for bosses and co-workers is if you are not trusted or known to be a gossip. Try Not to Judge Others Being judgemental is another turn off for others. Often, you have not chosen who you work with so being judged can be particularly annoying in the workplace. In contrast, showing compassion in the workplace has been found to make a real difference. Show Respect to All Employees Regardless of Ranking Loudly chastising junior staff won't win respect. Treat others how they want to be treated, regardless of who they are. Don’t Spread Germs! Don't play the hero if you are sick and contagious. Spreading your illness will not be appreciated by your co-workers! Email Etiquette A polite and formal approach to email shows … [Read more...] about Workplace Etiquette for Common Situations

Workers spend the majority of their working week in the office, so it’s great if they have a harmonious environment to enjoy. These tips can help you create a great atmosphere in which to spend your working day; there’s no need for going to work to be a chore. Join the tea round Even if you don’t really drink hot drinks yourself, offer to make some for everyone now and again, particularly if it feels like it has been a while since anyone offered. You may find that your colleagues are more likely to have a similar thought later on. In addition, there are also potential financial benefits. A report by EDF Energy has found that small businesses waste up to £31.8 million per year when people boil full kettles just to make one cup! Getting a tea round going can be a great chance for employees to socialise whilst helping tackle rising energy prices. Show an interest in your colleagues’ work When you find yourself making small talk with a colleague, why not quickly ask them what they are … [Read more...] about 4 Steps to a More Enjoyable Office Life