8 Secret Sins of the Office

8 Secret Sins of the Office Last week I was watching ABCs 20/20 and they featured an interesting topic Secret sins of the sekretariat. Whats a secret sin, though? Apparently, its a no no while at work some action (or actions) done in the office environment/on the clock that could quickly lead to your unemployment. I was immediately intrigued. The pointers were backed by Cynthia Shapiro, a former HR executive and author of Corporate Confidential. Were always reading someones opinion of what to and not to do while at work, and I usually get a kick out of it. ABCs insight was no different. Most of the things on the list are like seriously? Id get fired for that? But, hey, perhaps thats why theyre such a secret?Well, for anyone who missed last weeks episode, Im here to offer a recap complete with my own commentary about how to avoid falling prey to these sinful temptations8. Being Mr.PopularMr. Popula r is just as it soundsbeing well known and well liked in the office. Youre the go-to person, the it guy or gal. While in high school this may have been on the top of everyones list, Shapiro says, as a professional working adult, it should be far from yours. Sharing too much personal information about yourself can get you into trouble quickly. Shapiro says friendships need to be strategically crafted.Recruiter.coms advice Keep a solid line between professional and personal lives. Everyone isnt your friend in the office and may not have your best interest in mind. Likewise, you dont want to spread too much personal information about yourself because 1) it may make others uncomfortable knowing certain things about you and 2) you dont want to hinder managements perception of you based on happenings outside the office.7. MultitaskingEven though our bosses may say they want us to work on a bunch of things at once and be productive, Shapiro says this isnt always true. Multitasking makes yo ur performance tank, and dividing your attention between tasks can decrease a workers efficiency.Recruiter.coms advice Make a weekly schedule of all the important tasks that must be completed. Decide on the level of importance to arrange the tasks in the order of completion. Allot specific amounts of time for each task, each day. This will ensure youre getting your work done in a timely manner while still giving each task undivided attention.6. Talking to HRAlthough HR may tell you to come to them for help, Shapiro says be cautious. HR works for the company. They wont tell other employees what you said, but they will tell your boss depending on the situation.Recruiter.coms Advice Approach your boss, co-worker or whomever you have the issue with in a professional manner. Ask the person if he/she has time to discuss a concern. Remind him or her of what happened and your perspective of the situation. Ask for his or hers to clear up any miscommunication. Then, suggest you both offer pla usible solutions to avoid this happening again.5. Over decoratingShapiro claims this can be a career killer because office decorations are an unconscious test of values and loyalties. If an employees office is filled with religious things and troll dolls, it can cause others to make assumptions. If his or her desk is messy and chaotic, that can translate to a messy person. Schapiro also warned about family photos, saying theyre risky because it tells employers youd rather be at home.Recruiter.coms advice Decorate your desk in whatever way expresses you and makes you relaxed. Always ensure its professional, organized and doesnt include anything that may offend or scare/harm others. After all, your desk is yours but you share the space with others. Be considerate.4. Bringing kids to workA childs bad behavior reflects on his/her parents. Employers will think if the worker cannot control his/her children, how can this person control an office?Recruiter.coms advice Unless its bring your child to work day, leave your children at home. If you are going to bring in kids, know your companys culture and what days and times would be best.3. Feeding others (bringing in treats)Shapiro says if you do this too much, you wont be taken seriously. This is more toward women as she claims bringing in goodies makes women appear as the office mascot or office mom.Recruiter.coms advice Everyone loves treats, but most people are also health conscious. Bake sparingly and with a purpose, i.e. holidays, birthdays, etc. You can also have a volunteer sign up when these days come around so its not just one person always bringing in the treats.2. Signing off with loveWith love and/or love email signatures have no place in business correspondence, Shapiro points out. Dont send these to clients or your boss, especially.Recruiter.coms Advice Create a standard signature.1. Working too hardEven though most Americans are workaholics, 20/20 says this attitude can backfire. Overworking can decrease performance, which will negatively impact a workers image.Recruiter.coms advice Take periodic breaks, stop skipping lunch and go home when your shift is over. This may sound lazy or uncommitted but your boss simply cares that the work is done and its done well. A lot of times stepping away from work helps clear your mind so youre refreshed and focused when you return.