Conforming to the basic expectations of workplace culture is a must for success on the job. Conscientious employees DO come to work on time, call if they will be late or absent, spend work time on job tasks and keep their work area neat. Conscientious employees DO NOT shoot the breeze with co-workers when they should be working, talk on a cell phone or text during work hours, engage in gossip or leave a mess in common areas.
Off-putting grooming habits alienate co-workers and customers, whereas being presentable in the workplace can have a big payoff in terms of job survival. Conscientious employees DO convey an "I care" attitude with their grooming and hygiene. Conscientious employees DO NOT come to work with an offensive odor, too much perfume, dirty or raggedy fingernails, unwashed or wrinkled clothing or outfits that are inappropriate for the workplace. Relevant topics for a teaching unit include showering, using deodorant, maintaining fingernails and choosing appropriate work attire.
The Golden Rule is key to success at work as in the rest of life. Conscientious employees DO demonstrate a polite and professional manner, treat others as they would like to be treated and maintain appropriate boundaries by respecting others' rights to personal space and a private life. Conscientious employees DO NOT fail to greet others, argue with or bad-mouth co-workers and supervisors, stand too close, ask overly personal questions, share very personal information or act too chummy with superiors.
Good communication on the job is informative and courteous. Conscientious employees DO say "please" and "thank you," greet others, ask questions when they do not understand, apologize when they make a mistake, inform their supervisors when they have completed a task and use positive body language such as smiling, standing straight and maintaining eye contact. Conscientious employees DO NOT swear, tell inappropriate jokes, refrain from telling their supervisors when they need more information to complete a task, stare, look at the ground or look at a part of the person's body other than the face.
Workplace behaviors reflect personal qualities and attitudes. Employees with enthusiasm get to work on time and with a smile, whereas employees who lack enthusiasm may perform tasks grudgingly. Responsible workers can be counted on to do their job, while irresponsible employees may chat with co-workers while customers are waiting. Creating an inventory of personal qualities and attitudes and considering how these are reflected in job performance can help adults in vocational training classes develop a personal development plan.