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SSHHH...
I am a very luck individual, meaning that I am fortunate enough to have one of those jobs that I actually enjoy, even look forward too.
I know how rare that can be for young people so I do not say this lightly. When I was hired I can honestly say I was thrilled and looked forward to a long career with the agency. Since that time, I have had some of my idealism dampened but I continue to look forward to the everyday anticipating what I will learn while coming to the realization that this job may not be my final resting point.
I have however learned a few things on the job these last seven months that will no doubt continue to help me navigate my way through the world of PR for years to come, whether or not this job becomes a long term career or not. I share these things with you in the hopes that you will perhaps have a slightly smoother path than the one I took through the world of government public affairs.
There are some things you should NEVER talk about at work. There are just some topics that no matter how well intentioned you may be or how close you think you may be to a co-worker, you will lose in the end, and sometimes it can even mean your job. This isn't rocket science and by no means NEW, but some people need the refresher.
Are there other taboo topics in the work place? There are certainly many things you don't learn in college, but after nearly a year in the work force are there other things we should just know by now? Of course, but these are the main ones I have discovered since stepping into the crazy working "real world" of PR. Have a thought or want to add one to the list...post a comment.
@Sean -I think you read my mind. I knew when writing the post that many of these tips were out there but many new professionals are reading them for the first time. I am glad I am able to provide useful info for my readers. Thanks for the comment.
@Ryan - Although I have a few co-workers I would consider "friends" I still know what things would cross the line and stay far away from them, whether at work or anywhere really. I travel a good bit with my co-workers and have learned the hard way that things get back to the office, so it is always best in my opinion to be on your better if not best behavior around people you work with. As for blogs, even in cyber-space you should still be respectful. Maybe there are many who like the trashy blogs that do nothing but re-hash the "Hollywood dirty" but I don't think the writers are necessarily respected for their craft either. I prefer to stay on the up and up. Thanks for your input.
@Akshay - I absolutely agree with you. Gossip really has no place at work or anywhere else for that matter outside of a tabloid or people magazine. Good point.
As for the medical thing, I was primarily referring to the chronic complainers - the ones who are always sick with "something" and always want to share it with everyone. I have little faith in their ability to get much work done if all they have time for are complaints. Thanks for the comment.
This may be bordering on "gossip", but I would also recommending keeping opinions of other staff members to yourself. As tempting as it is to share your view on someone's dress, way of talking, email style, whatever, the repercussions are that people will wonder what you say about them. You may "bond" with one or two people, but this kind of frank talk will definitely alienate some folks so avoid saying it or even participating.
Regarding medical maladies though, sharing with your colleagues can sometimes pull you through it. Maybe they'll run out for some medication or help you get through a project. Even if its chronic, it doesn't have to be a weakness. Instead, it can make you work harder knowing sickness may be around the corner.
Personal medical problems get a bad rep because they can be easy excuses for getting off work, but there's definitely another side to that coin.
Kristina's right, this is nothing new, but you still see people cross the line all the time.
What's also important to note is that every co-worker is different. So while one may be cool w/ talking about sex or why he/she is broke, another one will find it totally taboo.
It's hard to gauge how people are going to react because these are all very sensitive subjects. Better off keeping those discussions on the blogs...maybe.
Kristina, thank you for bringing this forward. This is one of the many reasons I love blogs like this: while it's true that this isn't "new" information, it is absolutely new to some of the people who subscribe to this blog, and where else are they going to learn it? Good advice like this is timeless.
Great job! I agree and thought I'd volunteer another thing for your list: tidbits about coworkers.
Gossiping seems like great fun until it eventually comes back around to bite you, and it always does. Even if the consequence isn't overt, like someone gossiping about you, the damage done to your reputation is incalculable and sometimes irreparable.
Not all personal finances are out of bounds (and I don't think you intend it that way). I would talk about the "what and how" of investing...just not how much.
Most companies have some form of 410(k) programs and how to up contributions to it, invest it in the funds offered, and whether or not you use a personal financial planner are all OK by me.
@Erika - You are certainly right about that. It seems like the people who are most damaged by gossip are the ones doing it and it is also ironic that many times they don't even realize it. Most of the time no one will say it to their face.
@Scot - Great point. We do talk about things such as investments but even then, primarily in the more general sense. Tips are always welcome when valid, but bad decisions can sometimes reflect poorly on you. Now whether that is appropriate or not is a whole other blog topic! Thanks for the comment.
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