Millennials have many strengths from being tech savvy to not taking no for an answer, but sometimes this hard headedness can become an issue in an office setting. Here are five of the most common mistakes they make in the office, and how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Not Doing Your Homework.
You should come into an interview knowing all there is to know about the company you are interviewing for. This will make you look more informed during the interview itself, and will project the image the company is seeking. If you get the job, do your best to understand the inner workings of the company; with a greater overall picture, you will better understand your role in the company, and impress the higher ups along the way.
Mistake #2: Being Late.
Employers will always note your punctuality; being on time is not only expected, but it is required. Chronic tardiness says something more about you than your wake up time, it can turn into your defining trait. Instead, be early; this shows initiative and a strong work ethic, both vital characteristics of a good employee.
Mistake #3: Dressing Inappropriately.
Perhaps it is the fault of our all-too-casual generation, or an unclear office dress code, but the bottom line is the way you dress affects how people view you.
Here’s a short list of the major office faux pas: spaghetti straps, sheer clothes, work out gear, shorts, bandeau skirts, and flip-flops. In short, if you’d wear it to the club or a BBQ, it should probably not be worn at the office.
Mistake #4: Having Questionable Images on Social Media.
Spring break- it happened, it was documented, but it shouldn’t be accessible to your employer. Aside from the obvious substances that should not be on your profile, bikinis, clubbing, and partying pictures should be set on restricted view. You never know who will come across your profile, and you want to present yourself in the most professional way possible.
Mistake #5: Acting Like A Boss.
Especially in a big company, acting like you own the place on day 1 is a huge mistake. Accept the territory that comes with being new, and do your best to absorb the surrounding information rather than acting like you know everything right off the bat. Hard work will always beat the cool factor when you’re new, so tread lightly.
Millenials often get a bad rap for being the “me” generation or not working hard, but all of us are building our careers and are ready and eager to learn. We will undoubtedly make more mistakes than the five listed here, but if you get these down, you can move on to refining yourself further in your career.
- Forks over Knives: The Unexpected Benefits of Being Vegan - November 24, 2015
- How to Survive Finals Week: Tips for Crunch Time - November 13, 2015
- Your Mother Was Right- The MAGIC of Tidying - October 30, 2015