Whether you’re new to the workforce or a seasoned 9-to-5er, it’s essential to identify and follow proper workplace etiquette. Knowing how to act in any circumstance will help you grow and thrive as a professional.

In the workplace, you’ll encounter a variety of personalities and situations. Because of this, it’s inevitable that you’ll enter into an uncomfortable quandary a time or two during your career. If you handle sticky occurrences inappropriately, you risk creating a bad reputation and potentially losing your job.

Workplace Etiquette Mistakes to Avoid

Jacqueline Whitmore, the author of the article “Etiquette Errors That Can Sink Your Career,” sheds light on certain behaviors that can be detrimental to your career. Avoiding these will help you succeed not only professionally, but personally as well.

Don’t try to prove you’re the smartest person in the room.

The most successful people are generally humble. Remember this, and you will go far.

Don’t hide from your mistakes – take responsibility and do your best to fix them.

Making mistakes is okay. How would we learn otherwise? Nevertheless, if you consistently refuse to admit you are wrong, you’ll end up losing respect and credibility from your colleagues.

Don’t be hurtful when you’re honest with someone.

We all know the truth hurts. If you find yourself in a situation where honesty is called for, deliver your message in a polite and constructive way.

Don’t say or do things you’ll later regret.

Although you may feel comfortable at your job, it’s essential to stay professional. Keep the “Golden Rule” in mind always.

Don’t ignore great advice from those who have been around the block.

Listening is a fundamental skill that will insure your success. Learning and receiving advice from other experts in your field is an effective way to grow.

Don’t shrug off seemingly ‘menial’ tasks.

Even if you are over-qualified for your position, never give off that impression. It takes time to build rapport, so it’s imperative to maintain a humble and cheerful demeanor.

Don’t be rude to those ‘below’ you. Someone you work with might be your boss one day.

Be nice to everybody and your life will be easier. Keep this quote by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe in mind:

You can easily judge the character of a man by how he treats those who can do nothing for him.