Working with colleagues who’re older or more experienced than you are the ‘new kid’ on the team. You’ll be seen as less experienced, and no one will ever take you seriously. In plain simple words, getting taken seriously at work is an uphill battle. Here’s what you can do to be taken seriously at work:
Avoid Nasty Gossip at Work
Gossip can range from pointless and mild to severe and job-threatening, libelous and defamatory. Workplace gossip happens, no matter how hip and cool, or straight-laced your workplace culture is. First, it’s important to understand the negative consequences of gossip: its basic reputation theft.
According to Melody Wilding, a licensed social worker and psychology columnist, there are three common types of gossipers: the backstabber, the idler, and the complainer. The Backstabber is the person you confide in, who then uses the information against you. The Idler spreads rumors just to fill the void of being bored at work. The Complainer is perpetually jealous and resentful, who cannot stand a coworker receiving acclamation.
You’ll always find people get gratification from speculating about peers, supervisors and senior management and their motives. One way to avoid gossip at work is by using the one powerful phrase that stops gossip immediately: Why are you telling me this?
Not to say that you shouldn’t talk or be friendly; don’t act entitled. It’s okay to listen to a bit of gossip, but don’t spread it – keep things professional and classy.
Be respectful to your peers and let your work do the talking.
Avoid Over-sharing Personal Info At Work
The people you work with may be your friends, but don’t be too eager to tell all. Of course, in order to build a professional network, you must open up to your colleagues, but trick lies in ‘moderation’. You don’t need to talk about your personal issues to any of the coworkers.
If you want to be taken seriously at work, avoid sharing every detail so it looks like you’re bragging or looking for constant kudos. Your coworkers don’t need to know if you dislike a coworker, you’re back with your girlfriend, or you had a fight with your roommate over who’ll do the dishes.
Act professional and confident, and let your work speak the loudest.
Don’t Join Office Cliques
Cliques are not just a high school thing. More often than not, you’re find yourself become a part of it, and mind you, people will take notice of it. Avoid socializing with tightly knit groups of coworkers who socialize in and outside the office. Make an effort to get to know your peers of all ages, especially the seasoned employees.