How to be a Better Employee

Tips for Being an Employee Who is an Asset in the Workplace

Sep 8, 2009 Kathleen Klein

The workplace is no place for divisions of "us" and "them." Employee/employer hierarchy being what it is, some built-in potentials for disputes do exist.

It is possible, though, for all parties to work together comfortably and, in many cases, actually happily. As an employee, there are some simple suggestions that can help in the cohesiveness of a work relationship with management. By implementing a few practices, work can be a more enjoyable and positive experience.

Know the Company's Rules

Regardless of whether or not the employee is in agreement with the rules a company implements, once hired, the rules are meant to be followed. Some businesses allow their workers more leeway in many areas. Find out what the case is before taking a chance on losing a valuable job. Each company is different. Check with human resources to find out where the company stands on issues related to what is expected of employees.

When at Work, Be at Work

Physically and mentally, be there. Be on time. During the hours of work, compartmentalize as much as possible to make sure that the employer has what it's paying for – someone to perform a particular job. Take meal and rest breaks as specified by company rules. Some offices are much more lax as far as specific scheduling of breaks. Others demand breaks taken on a rigid schedule. Leave when the work day is over, unless prior arrangements have been made to leave early, or unless of an emergency.

Curb Computer Use

Unless the employer has okayed otherwise, computers at the workplace are to be used for work. No sneaking peeks at Facebook or email. No checking out what DVDs are coming out. No playing Solitaire or web surfing. The workplace is for doing the work that is being paid for. Some employers allow employees to use company computers when workloads are light. Check before risking a write-up.

Gossiping is a Huge No No

“If they’ll do it with you, they’ll do it to you.” This applies to work and personal life, but it can cost someone a job if done at work. Standing around the fax machine whispering about who gets paid what or who's dating who can backfire in a split second. If a manager is one of those guilty of gossiping, shame on him (or her). As an employee, though, show restraint regardless. There is no excuse for bad behavior.

Keep Attire Professional

Most offices are fine with “office casual” attire, allowing for much flexibility in employees’ clothing styles. A work environment is not place to try out that new little number cut down to here and slit up to there, or is the place to wear those shorts with holes in not so subtle places and t-shirt that would see better days as a dust rag. Dress appropriately for the workplace, whatever that workplace may be. Ultimately, use common sense while dressing for success.

Give Adequate Notice

When the time comes to move on, be courteous and give at least two weeks notice. For most positions, two weeks is the requested time so that the job being vacated can be filled. For upper level positions often a month or more is given but that can be best decided by perhaps talking to a manager or someone in human resources. How long the potential search for new job candidates will take often determines how long of notice is preferred.

An ethical new employer will appreciate the employee giving adequate notice and be willing to wait. After all, they would expect the same consideration under the same circumstances.

A Few Guidelines for the Workplace

The workplace is where many people spend most of their days and the atmosphere can affect their whole lives. By following a few guidelines as an employee, the overall experience of the workplace can be improved.

• Know the rules of the company.
• Focus on work when in the workplace.
• Refrain from gossiping.
• Dress appropriately for the particular workplace.

Being a good employee can lead to promotions and raises. The more able to deal with different people in the workplace, the more capable and valuable an employee can prove to be overall.

The copyright of the article How to be a Better Employee in Career Advice is owned by Kathleen Klein. Permission to republish How to be a Better Employee in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

No Place for Gossip