ALT-2 How not to be an Office Jerk
No one can say that he has never been a jerk in his life. In a work environment, encountering jerks is more prevalent due to the tough competition in terms of getting ahead of others when it comes to promotions, pitching ideas and getting along with co-workers. These are people who steal your parking space, say something rude or cut you in a middle of a sentence. There are really people who get into your nerves even without trying too hard. A jerk is a person who is rude and inconsiderate. Oftentimes, jerks do not realize their behavior until it is pointed out to them. We can be jerks without us knowing. It is not a pleasant feeling when people around you avoid having conversations with you. Even nice people can be jerks during tough situations.
Our world is better when we are considerate of feelings of others. When we stop thinking about ourselves for a moment and take time to think of others, our work life will be less stressful and it is easier to enjoy the job with no one trying to ruin your day.
Here are ways to avoid being a jerk:
1. Think before you speak. Watch your language and the tone of your voice. This is a difficult task when you are in the heat of the moment. Words are difficult to take back once spoken. Allow yourself to pause and collect your thoughts. Less talk, less mistakes. This is crucial in the office since business environment requires formality in their words.
2. Set aside your prejudices. See things in another person's point of view. When we limit ourselves to one school of thought, we do not see and accept other ideas. To fully understand another person, you need to walk in their shoes. As Atticus Finch in 'To Kill a Mockingbird' said, "You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view - until you climb into his skin and walk around in it." In office meetings, hear other ideas and if you think you have the better idea, you can still push your concepts politely without offending another person.
3. Always be compassionate, considerate and kind. Have a cheerful personality. It keeps your energy up. Be ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. It can be holding the door open for someone, having the courtesy to refill the coffee pot or simple smile to acknowledge another co-worker
4. Having good manners is important. Being polite, saying 'thank you' and 'please' were taught to us since childhood. These are simple gestures that show our respect for others.
5. Try to be aware of your actions. We are not perfect but when we realize the consequences of our actions, it is easier to correct our behavior. They say the first step to solving a problem is to admit you have one.
6. Learn to be humble. When we think of ourselves to be better than others, we feel we are entitled to certain privileges. Thus, we ignore other people's feelings in favor of our whims. Healthy competitions are expected in any workplace. It is a way to motivate people to do their best. However, if we step another person's toes to get ahead, it is diminishes our sense of achievement.
When we live our lives in constant awareness of each moment, we see things clearly. We will act with compassion and respect for others. The work environment is a better place that way.
