Professional Development

10 ways to earn the title of office jerk

So, your goal is to be the office jerk? Boy, is this list really going to help you achieve that dream!

In all seriousness, though, this list, while certainly not exhaustive, shows common workplace behaviors you should avoid – unless, of course, being the office idiot really is your goal.

1. Talk only about yourself.
   In many cases this is more of a listening problem than a talking problem. It’s natural to be thinking of what to say next when someone’s talking to you. But, take the time to listen – really listen. Ask questions. Show an interest in others. It’s not all about you.
   

2. Care only about yourself.
   Some people are simply not team players. They will walk over of you if you let them. Respect your co-workers. After all, you spend a lot of time with them.
   

3. Gossip.
   Remember high school? Then you probably remember how gossip can ruin a reputation. The same holds true for the workplace. It can be hard to ignore gossip, but spreading it will only give you a bad rep.
   

4. Whine and complain.
   Yes, we all have something to complain about our on job at some time or another. Every day will not be a picnic. However, incessant complaining will not solve your problems. Respectful, thoughtful actions will. If you have a problem, ask for help and come up with a solution.
   

5. Manipulate and backstab.
   This destructive behavior may help you get ahead in the short term, but is certainly not advised as a long-term strategy. This is a dangerous path; one that will most definitely result in office enemies.
   

6. Shoot down the ideas of others.
   There’s no doubt that there are a lot of bad ideas out there. But, shooting down every idea that comes your way is no way to get ahead. Listen and see if there’s anything good in the idea. Can it be improved? Changed? Filed for later?
   

7. Be overly defensive.
   Most of us take a lot of pride in our work and it can be hard to hear criticism, even if it is constructive. Don’t immediately become defensive. Don’t make excuses. As hard as it can be, you can learn a lot through the criticism of others.
   

8. Lose your temper.
   Losing your temper shows others that you have low emotional intelligence. Keep your cool. Step away from the situation. Scream in your car. Vent to a friend. Just don’t yell at your co-workers.
   

9. Dumb yourself down.
   Any time you aren’t true to yourself, you deny your potential to grow. Dumbing yourself down is not a good career move.
   

10. Be a know-it-all.
    Sometimes it’s better to keep all of that great knowledge you possess to yourself. It’s ok not to always get the last word.

Consistently commit these “crimes” and there’s no doubt you will earn the title of office jerk in no time!

photo credit: Gnesix