Inappropriate Behavior at Work

Inappropriate Behavior at Work Inappropriate Behavior at Work We often express who we are by our behavior, including what we wear and how we speak. Sometimes, however, these expressions of our individuality go against our employers rules or workplace norms. Whether through official or unofficial policy, our employers may expect us to dress or speak a certain way, or more likely, to avoid what they consider inappropriate behavior. Not everyone agrees that one should conform to their employers expectations. The ability to be themselves everywhere, including at work, regardless of what others think, is a value they hold dear. These people arent wrong, but the belief that an employer shouldnt have a say over inappropriate behavior could be. Youre Wearing That?! Do you like to express yourself through your attire? If your employer has a dress code, it is essential to follow it. It is also necessary to wear clothing that is considered right for your industry. Adding your individual style to that is usually okay, but flouting the rules or norms is not. It could send a message to your boss, coworkers, and customers that you dont take your work seriously. Examples of attire that could be considered inappropriate for work may include clothing that is too casual (leggings and sweatpants, shorts, and ripped jeans), show too much skin, or is unkempt. Some may consider this unfair but whether it is or isnt is irrelevant. When there are rules, you must follow them, or work to change them. If expressing yourself through your clothing style is extremely important to you, rather than bristling under the restrictions of what may be too conservative a work environment for your tastes, instead look for a job that allows you to wear the type of attire you desire. It is, in fact, one of the factors you should consider when choosing an occupation or evaluating a job offer. Some types of clothing are inappropriate for particular work environments and occupations but are perfectly fine for others. For instance, an associate in an accounting firm wearing a tank top that shows off his tattoos would stand out like a sore thumb, but a graphic artist working in an advertising agency who dresses similarly would probably fit right in. You Said What?! Many employers consider using profanity in the workplace inappropriate behavior. While cursing has become somewhat commonplace in todays society, they form negative opinions of anyone who regularly drops the F-bomb or other swear words at work. They think it shows a lack of professionalism. Even employers who arent offended may worry their customers and clients will be. The effect on their bottom line is enough to make them want to put a stop to the behavior or get rid of the offender. If your boss is among them, self-censorship is necessary. Disregarding your employers concerns could affect your ability to advance or hold onto your job. You may also have coworkers who cringe when they hear foul language. In social situations, they can choose to stay away from someone who uses foul language, but at work, they are a captive audience. Try your best to avoid behaviors that annoy coworkers. A harmonious work environment is more important than being able to use profanities on the job. Other Inappropriate Behavior Here are other examples of behavior that employers or coworkers consider inappropriate: Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while at workTalking on your phone loudlyTaking and posting photographs of your coworkers on social mediaComplaining about your coworkers on social mediaComing to work sickSpreading negativityEating noisilyShowing up late for meetingsUsing your phone during meetings for anything that isnt work-relatedTending to matters of personal hygiene, including clipping your nails or flossing your teeth