Five forbidden sins on the job

EVERY NOW and then we all need to be reminded that there are certain behaviours that are just not tolerated in the workplace.

You may think that everyone should know not to engage in these offensive and sometimes criminal acts. However, when an employee violates a basic rule, it is a call for a reminder. Here are five basic rules to keep in mind.{{more}}

1. Dating someone on the job is not professional. It can jeopardize your job if the relationship does not work out. It can also cause tension among co-workers when the relationship seems to be going well. Workplace dating often evokes feelings of jealousy, lack of trust and accusations of favouritism, all of which are detrimental to workplace morale and the team spirit.

2. Drug usage on the job, or coming to work under the influence of any substance, is absolutely unacceptable. There are no exceptions, especially during festival seasons (Nine Mornings, Carnival or other celebrations.)

3. Stealing money or company property. This includes abuse of company credit cards or petty cash funds, as well as the small things like pens, notepads, tape, etc. Do not take this for granted, as it can be costly to your employer to replenish office supplies when abuse is prevalent.

4. Cheating on your time card. Whether it’s adding 10 minutes or half-hour, it is still cheating and can be cause for dismissal. Keep accurate records of your time worked.

5. Weapons are not allowed on company property. In light of all the recent international tragedies and an increase in workplace violence across the board, everyone is on a heightened state of alert. If the instrument is not a requirement for the job, leave it at home.

Karen Hinds is an author and speaker, empowering young persons to be future workplace leaders and champions of their lives. Send your questions or comments to Karen@karenspeaks.com

Karen Hinds is “The Workplace Success Expert.” For a FREE SPECIAL REPORT