Starting Out Before you start First Day Guidelines Demonstrating a Positive Attitude Dress and Grooming Know the People Know the Organization Reliability and Calling In Shift Tracker Questions that Need Answers

Staying on Track Ethics at Work Teamwork Quality Work - On Time Socializing at Work

Moving Up Life-long Learning Taking Initiative Communication for Moving Up

Moving On Developing a Career Path Job Search While You Are Working Leaving:  When and How

Other Articles Handling People Problems At Work The Top 10 Ways to Make Positive First Impressions Employer's Expectations: Measuring Up Monster Career Centre On the Job Basics Monster Career Centre Networking 10 Ways to Poison Your Career Job Smart: Tips for staying employed  (pdf)

ASPECT'S GUIDE TO SUCCESS AT WORK

Socializing at Work

Getting along with the people you work with is essential to effective and productive teamwork. A good start is having a positive attitude that makes you the kind of person people want to be around. Additionally, finding allies - coworkers you can count on for direction and honest feedback- will be helpful to your fitting in.

To be sure that your "social" behaviour on the job is working for you, here are a few guidelines:

	Take an interest in everyone; don't exclude people or become part of a "clique".
	Attend company activities such as sporting events, lunches, staff parties.
	Avoid gossiping, talking behind someone's back or taking "sides" in internal conflicts.
	Do not partake in discussions or "humour" that is sexist, racist, or otherwise offensive.
	Do not accept or be a passive observer of any form of workplace harassment.
	Do not ask coworkers to buy products from you, and be assertive if you don't want to buy from them.
	Accept coworkers as they are and avoid passing judgment on their lifestyle choices.

Tips for Conversation

First, don't make assumptions about what people may be interested in. Not all men follow hockey, not all women are into fashion and not everyone who wears baggy pants loves rap.

Second, listen to what your coworkers talk about and join in when it is something that interests you. Don't try to fake knowledge - ask questions instead.

Third, and most important, don't bring details of the most personal aspects of your life, especially problems, into the workplace.

Close Relationships

Coworkers do sometimes become close friends - or more. To keep this from becoming an issue, consider these guidelines:

	Try to understand the reasons your boss, or other coworkers, may object.
	Do not let friendship get in the way of being a part of the whole team.
	Do not use work time to discuss outside plans or activities.
	Approach any romantic situation cautiously, being aware of company policy and any potential for harassment.