Bad business habits are the mistakes you make when you aren’t paying attention because they come to you so naturally. You do them every day but find them hard to break. Chances are they rile up your coworkers and are the topic of discussion behind your back.
In a previous article, I presented you with a set of nine bad business habits. Because of the popularity of the subject, I have come up with a follow-up list of eight more business habits you should be aware of.
1- You demand to be in the loop
Remember the expression "mind your own business?" Well, here is a hard question to ask yourself: Are you perhaps a little too nosy at work? Do you need to be aware of all the gossip and bustle that goes on with your coworkers?One thing that really irritates people is when individuals demand to be kept informed about every little thing that goes on. If you are one of those people with ears like antennae, you should try to refrain from doing so. The next time you hear people snickering or gossiping, think twice about including yourself in their conversation.
How to break it: If your duties require that you stay abreast of developments, schedule short but regular meetings for people to bring important matters to your attention. Otherwise, try to steer clear of prying into other people’s conversations. Stick with what you are doing and, well, mind your own business.
2- You are unprepared
Showing up to a meeting unprepared takes up other people’s time. Not only does it look bad, but if you spend a meeting trying to catch up, your coworkers will think it is almost better if you were not there.If you are interrupting the discussion with questions you should already know the answers to, the meeting can end up being unproductive all because you were unprepared.
How to break it: Make a habit of giving yourself 15 minutes before a meeting to prepare for it. It may seem like a nuisance, but it is a good habit to get into because it keeps you on top of things.
Do you have any bad work habits? Chances are you're annoying people at your job and you don't know it... Next >>
