Subtle Work Blunders You Might Be Guilty of Committing

There is no doubt the modern workplace is more competitive than ever before. You are not just competing with other people in your geographical location. The Internet makes the whole world's workforce your competition as well. 

Being at the top of your game at work is more important than ever. Here are some not-so-obvious work blunders you might be guilty of committing. 

1.        Giving off a negative vibe. While nobody expects you to be positive all day, it's another thing to be the type of colleague or boss who whines constantly. 

 Complaining regularly will give the people you do business with the impression that you lack control and organizational skills. Someone who is positive and tackles problems instead of complaining about them is an ideal person to have around. This shows people that you can take on challenges. 

Focus on coming up with solutions instead of voicing out problems alone. A negative person is a burden while a positive person will attract others and that business deal you have been eyeing.

2.        Not respecting personal space. Just because you have a pleasant relationship with your colleague or subordinate doesn't mean you can treat her like you would your best friend from college. Being the boss doesn't give you the right to invade the personal space of your staff either. 

A professional relationship requires professional behaviors. Stay away from asking questions that are too personal. Keep your jokes and side comments wholesome and never disrespectful. Worst case scenario, you can be slapped with a lawsuit. Unfortunately, you will only discover you have crossed someone's personal space after you did it. It's best to be safe than sorry. 

3.        Being a Dirty Harriette. Needless to say, keep your working area and appearance clean. Your dirty habits will be noticed by clients and staff alike. Whether you have a home office or a business space, not cleaning up after yourself makes you look disrespectful and lazy. Don't assume that your tasks at work are limited to your official job description. Dirty habits can stain your reputation as a professional. 

4.        Sticking with email as the only means of communication. Whether you are a freelancer or self-employed, you are competing with the skills and services of other people. Email has a detached touch. It's not as personal as hearing someone's voice and having them hear yours. If you feel comfortable with email and the thought of picking up the phone makes you nervous, you need to get out of this comfort zone. The business relationships you build will be worth it. 

5.        Blaming and coming up with excuses. No one expects you to be perfect. Mistakes will be made. Don't dig a deeper hole for yourself by blaming others or coming up with one excuse after another whenever you commit a blunder. You will earn the respect of the people you do business with - whether they're your clients or your staff. Admitting the mistake will make you look honest and like a team player as well. Apologize and immediately offer to remedy the situation. 

Skills are important at any job and so is having the right attitude. Chances are, there are tons of people who possess your technical and professional skills. Set yourself and your brand apart from the pack with a winning attitude.