Introduction

Congratulations! You’ve made it through college and now it’s time to enter the real world of work. This is an exciting time in your life, but it can also be overwhelming. You may face challenges such as office politics, bias, and boundaries that you have never encountered before. But don’t worry! Here are some tips to help you navigate your new workplace and succeed in your career.

Conquering Bias

Bias is a reality that exists in all workplaces. It can be challenging to overcome, but it is important to recognise it and deal with it professionally. Here are some tips to help you conquer bias:

• Be aware of your own biases: We all have biases. Being aware of your own biases is the first step in overcoming them. Take some time to reflect on your own biases and be open to learning about other people’s perspectives.

• Avoid making assumptions: Avoid assuming that someone is incompetent or less capable because of their gender, race, religion, or any other characteristic. Give everyone an equal chance to prove themselves.

• Be respectful: Treat everyone with respect, regardless of their position in the company or their personal characteristics. Show that you value their contributions.

• Speak up: If you witness bias or discrimination, speak up. Be respectful but firm in your communication.

Setting Boundaries

It can be challenging to set boundaries at work, especially when you are new to the company. However, setting boundaries is essential for your well-being and success. Here are some tips to help you set boundaries:

• Understand your job description: Make sure you understand what is expected of you in your role. This will help you set realistic boundaries and avoid taking on too much work.

• Be clear about your availability: Let your colleagues know when you are available and when you are not. This will help you manage your workload and avoid burnout.

• Prioritise your work: Learn to prioritise your work and focus on the most important tasks. This will help you avoid taking on unnecessary work and help you manage your time effectively.

• Say no: It’s okay to say no to requests that don’t align with your priorities or workload. Saying no can help you set boundaries and maintain your work-life balance.

Being Professional

Being professional is essential for success in the workplace. It is important to maintain a positive attitude, be reliable, and communicate effectively. Here are some tips to help you be professional:

• Dress appropriately: Dress professionally and follow the company’s dress code. This will help you make a good impression and show that you take your job seriously.

• Be punctual: Arrive on time for meetings and appointments. This shows that you respect other people’s time and are reliable.

• Communicate effectively: Learn to communicate effectively with your colleagues and managers. Be clear and concise in your communication and listen actively.

• Be respectful: Show respect to your colleagues and managers, even if you disagree with them. Avoid negative or unprofessional behaviour, such as gossiping or speaking negatively about others.

Conclusion

Navigating a new workplace can be challenging, but with the right attitude and approach, you can succeed in your career. Remember to be aware of bias, set boundaries, and be professional at all times.

Test yourself using the scale below to assess your knowledge of workplace behaviour:

1. I have a basic understanding of what workplace bias is and how it can affect people.

○ Strongly Disagree ○ Disagree ○ Don't Know ○ Agree ○ Strongly Agree

2. I have a general idea of what it means to be professional in the workplace.

○ Strongly Disagree ○ Disagree ○ Don't Know ○ Agree ○ Strongly Agree

3. I have a basic understanding of what boundaries are in the workplace and why they are important.

○ Strongly Disagree ○ Disagree ○ Don't Know ○ Agree ○ Strongly Agree

4. I understand the importance of respect in the workplace, even in situations where people may disagree.

○ Strongly Disagree ○ Disagree ○ Don't Know ○ Agree ○ Strongly Agree

5. I have a general understanding of how to handle workplace conflicts in a professional manner.

○ Strongly Disagree ○ Disagree ○ Don't Know ○ Agree ○ Strongly Agree

By assessing yourself on this scale, you can identify areas where you need to improve and develop a plan to work on them. With dedication and hard work, you can conquer any challenges that come your way and achieve success in your career. Good luck!

Next Steps

Check out our affordable Advanced Employability Course to help you be ready for your next workplace.