Q&A for How to Behave at Work

It's inevitable that there are going to be times that you don't get along with your colleagues. However, prior to escalating to management, a few things need to be considered. Can you move to another team? Do you have to work with that person? If so, is it a limited interaction or an ongoing one? A personality conflict isn't as concerning as sexual harassment, bullying, or discrimination. Make note of any events or interactions that trouble you and be sure to list the date of the occurrence. If you feel interactions with this person is preventing you from completing your work, feel threatened or discriminated against its cause to bring your concern to your HR representative for resolution.

Usually, you can inquire about transportation reimbursement when inquiring about job benefits during your interview. However, should you need an allowance for public transportation after the fact, inquire with HR if that benefit is available to you and ask for the next steps.

Workplace procedures vary depending on the company you work for and the job title that you hold. You can ask your supervisor for Standard Operating Procedures for your position/department. There is often a handbook available that you may use as a guide.

Ask him to personally review the comments to see if they are true or not. If he doesn't have the time then ask him to have someone whom he trusts that does not know you to assess you.

Try to realize that you do not control the external environment but you do control your response to the external environment. Keep your composure/integrity and know that it is up to you how you choose to respond.

Talk to your boss about this and tell him that you are not comfortable and compatible with the environment that this team creates. Remember, for an employee to give his best, the employer needs to provide a comfortable environment!

This will depend on what work you are being asked to do, which can vary widely depending on your job context. As such, it's impossible to give a definitive answer. However, if your workplace encourages sharing of workload and you have spare capacity, then perhaps it would be a good thing as it helps to build camaraderie, spreads expertise and means that the coworker will help you in return when needed. If it's not permitted or you are at full capacity and can't do more, then just politely decline.

Generally, it's best to just ignore it. Maintain good relationships with as many people as possible and don't empower a gossip by showing concern over his or her remarks.

You should be respectful, polite, and dedicated to your work. Try not to argue with your boss, as he likely knows what he is doing. Try to remain professional, and not become "best buddies" with your boss.

Always wish him/her good morning at the start of the day. This will increase their respect and good feelings toward you. Before discussing a new idea with your boss, run it by your coworker and ask if they have any suggestions. You can also share his/her workload. This will increase their trust in you.

Be timely, courteous, honest, professional and consistent. You could even try to be at your work area before the start of your work day. Also, don't leave early, follow the rules, always keep your supervisor informed, and generally, just do a good job.

Politely ask them to stop doing whatever they're doing. If they don't, tell your supervisor. If your supervisor doesn't do anything about it, tell their supervisor.

It probably means that person has something important to attend to on their usual shift, and they are unable to work their usual shift. If it only happened once, then you do not need to worry about it at all.

Absolutely, your boss will be pleased that you're showing initiative and has a responsibility to provide the information anyway. Ask for the details and show enthusiasm at the same time.