The return to face-to-face activities or hybrid scheme has meant new changes in the way of acting within companies; however, there are unwritten rules or anti-protocols that are important to avoid so as not to affect your image and professional growth.
Sometimes, you may not realize the mistakes you are making and unconsciously you are holding back your job opportunities, since you give a projection of someone careless, unprofessional and with little leadership.
What is an anti-protocol?
Unlike what can be perceived as an act of education or the set of rules of courtesy that are followed in social relationships that have been established by custom, anti-protocols are those unwritten rules that you should avoid carrying out in your place of work.
Consider avoiding the following actions to keep your personal and professional image in a positive light:
1. Bad image and hygiene.
Your personal appearance has a positive or negative impact on the perception that others have of you and your work; therefore, when you look careless or dirty, you give an image of little professionalism, irresponsibility and little attention.
Provoking that even, you are not promoted in your company, because the message you send is that, if you do not take care of yourself, you will not do it with new responsibilities either.
2. Speak ill of the boss or colleagues digitally.
Thanks to technology, communication has become more efficient; however, you must be careful in its use avoiding sending messages making criticism, ridicule or comments about your bosses or co-workers.
Remember that screenshots exist and in an unfortunate act, you can have serious consequences negatively impacting your professional growth.
3. Having your desk cluttered.
According to research by the Nashville Business Journal, 28% of managers won’t offer pay raises or promote an employee if their workspace is messy and dirty.
Therefore, avoid having a huge pile of papers, dirt stains and general disorganization on your desk. The less stuff you have, the better you can focus and be productive.
4. Phubbing.
This refers to when you ignore the person in front of you for paying more attention to your cell phone. If you are expecting an urgent call or message, let the other person know and leave your cell phone on vibrate. If this is not the case, put your device aside and attend to the person you are talking to.
There may be times when you make any of these mistakes out of distraction; however, do not allow it to be a constant as you will be negatively affecting your image, personal branding and your opportunities for professional growth. Remember that everything communicates.