Debunking a work myth

by | Nov 10, 2024 | Uncategorized

Debunking a work myth

 

You have prepared most of your life for this moment. You wrote matric and pursued a tertiary qualification. You have written more tests and exams than you can count. Not to mention that you have done innumerable practical’s. Then the job-hunting process began. You put together a professional CV, sent it to many companies and the other day you had your first job interview. Then you got the call that changed everything. You have a job! You hope you can remember everything you have ever learned.

And that is where the myth lies, dear Reader. You do not have to know everything of the workplace on your first day. For “the expert in something was once a beginner” (Helen Hayes).

The workplace can be especially daunting on your first day. But I assure you that as you get into the rhythm of it, you will get used to it, and master workplace etiquette like you would any other skill.

Photo by The Climate Reality Project on Unsplash

So, what soft skills are important for the workplace?

  1. Communication– building relationships and transmitting messages, as well as getting feedback are by far the most important skills. Without clear communication, there is confusion, and messages do not get passed along, which slows the whole team down.
  2. Leadership– this is just as important as communication. There must be a clear vision as to where the company is headed. This is done through sharing goals and objectives.
  3. Teamwork– as the old saying goes, teamwork makes the dream work.
  4. Time management– this is crucial, as without it, deadlines are missed.
  5. Adaptability– you stay relevant by adapting quickly when there is change. The quicker you can adapt, the better off you are.
  6. Other soft skills include creativity, problem solving and critical thinking.

(Danao, 2024)

What else do you need to know about the workplace?

 

  1. Networking is essential. While hard work is a good indication of your performance, networking is crucial at work as well. This is because the more connected you are, the better opportunities you will get.
  2. It is possible to achieve a work-life balance if you plan properly and stick to your plan. (Sharma, 2023)
  3. As already mentioned, time management is key if you want to succeed. In my opinion, the Eisenhower Matrix is the most effective. This classifies tasks into urgent, important, not urgent and not important.

Source: LinkedIn

What are some things that are absolute “do not do’s” in the workplace?

  1. Gossiping about your co-worker– nothing destroys a relational bond as quickly as gossip. Don’t go there.
  2. Gossiping about clients.
  3. Engaging in workplace politics -if you don’t want the same thing said about you, don’t say it about someone else.
  4. Lying of whatever kind.
  5. Changing jobs too often– you gain a reputation as a “job-hopper”, and this damages your career.

Photo by Abdularhman Khewani on Unsplash

Workplace etiquette is a skill that can be learnt. Hone the soft skills and remember the things to know. Don’t engage with the “do not do’s”, and watch your career take off.

Compiled by: Tanja Werle