Do you have a clue about workplace etiquette? or “How to keep your job?”

How to dig yourself into a hole….

Social media has caused everyone to communicate in a more casual way—even at work—for better or worse. There are still boundaries for what is considered acceptable or not acceptable to say. Let the way you speak reflect the effort you put into your work. Workplace etiquette is important!  You need to remain tactful in a working environment, otherwise a lack of “filter” can have serious consequences. Here’s some things you should avoid saying in the office if you don’t want to get fired one day:

“I’m exhausted.” This is the kind of casual statement that is completely unacceptable to say in an office. Even if you ARE beat up, saying something like this makes it seem as though you are making up an excuse for a poor work ethic or attitude. Do not ever complain about being tired. Maintain an upbeat, positive energy even if you aren’t feeling 100% that day.
“You never told me to do that.” Even if this were true, saying it sounds like you are deflecting the blame (and to your boss, of all people). Instead, say something along the lines of, “Sorry, I did not know I had to do that.” Don’t admit guilt, but don’t point any fingers either.
“I left a message for him.” In the current working climate, people do not check their voicemails as often as they do their email. For time sensitive things, do not leave a message. Send an email first and then follow up with a call/voicemail. But don’t just leave a voicemail and leave it at that.
“I’ve been here ‘X’ years and I think I deserve a raise.” This will just make you sound entitled. And really, it doesn’t matter how long you’ve been at your job. What you have accomplished should speak for itself. Lay out your accomplishments with your boss and have a healthy discussion about future opportunities, rather than just up and demanding a raise.
“I’m going on vacation on ‘X’ date.” You must first ask permission to take time off before outright declaring that you are. You are not your own boss.

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