Understanding perspective

Workplace professionalism is ALL about appearances – how you look, sound, and behave. You might have the best intentions in the world, but if it is not reflected in your appearance and behaviour, then it doesn’t exist.

Keep in mind that expectations vary from individual to individual, and from workplace to workplace. Observing others and asking for advice and feedback is the best way to ensure you are meeting the expectations of your supervisor and promoting yourself positively within the workplace.

We each have our own take on why we do what we do. An important skill to develop is the ability to consider other peoples perspectives on our behaviour and the affect it has on them.

One way of doing this is to stop and consider – “If I were them, what would I think and feel about this?” People are rarely intentionally out to give you a hard time or make your life unpleasant (yes, admittedly some do – do a search on Workplace Psychopaths) – even though we may want to believe that to be the case. Acknowledging otherwise does mean we have to be both honest with ourselves and take responsibility for our own actions and their impact on others.

See the below clips for quick incisive examples: