Kentucky State University Career Guide

Common Sense Rules for Workplace Dilemmas

Ethics, integrity and old-fashioned values are emphasized in the workplace. Many of these values are simple common sense to a person who was taught right from wrong, but nonetheless they bear repeating.

Treat others as you would like to be treated.

Learn empathy. Covey says, “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.” Work at being able to place yourself in other people’s positions and see issues from their points of view. Avoid office romances at all costs. If you happen to become involved with someone at work, be realistic about the possible complications and repercussions. Don’t ask for or expect special favors in the workplace. There are few emergencies. Control your anger at work. Learn to offer suggestions and alternatives instead of criticism.

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Don’t engage in gossip--ever.

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Never, never betray a confidence.

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Don’t try to build yourself up by tearing another person down. Play office politics only from the sidelines-- never on center court. As Stephen R. Covey suggests, think of feedback and criticism as a bank account. Every time you give negative feedback to your co-workers or boss, you take a little from the relationship or account. Make sure that bank account has more deposits than withdrawals. If you make a mistake, accept the responsibility. Never try to blame someone else for your errors. It never hurts to say “Thank you,” “You did a great job,” “I really appreciated your help,” etc. Praise is always in everyone’s best interest, and it will allow you to have more credibility with co-workers when you must criticize.

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Involve yourself in the community.

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Common Sense Rules For More Information The Career Planning and Placement Center in the Academic Services Building, room 241 has several books and videotapes that contain more information to help you make the transition from college to career.

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