What Do I Need to Know About Workplace Etiquette? | S1E5 | New Here

Summary

In this episode of *New Here?*, writer and comedian Sarah Cooper discusses navigating office etiquette, overcoming generational stereotypes, and managing imposter syndrome in the workplace. She highlights the importance of code-switching and embracing your unique identity while adapting to professional environments. Sarah also advises using journaling to reflect on workplace challenges and patterns, encouraging listeners to take risks and embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth. With a focus on self-acceptance and taking chances, this conversation provides valuable insights for anyone seeking to thrive in their career.

Takeaways

• 😀 Embrace code-switching as a valuable skill to adapt to professional environments while still maintaining your authenticity.
• 😀 Understand that different generations have unique approaches to work, but avoid stereotyping or generalizing them.
• 😀 Journaling is an effective tool for self-reflection, helping you recognize patterns and grow from past experiences.
• 😀 Don't be afraid to make mistakes at work—taking risks is essential for growth and success.
• 😀 Corporate etiquette can be daunting, but remember, you don't need to have all the answers right away—just keep moving forward.
• 😀 Confidence is key in the workplace. Believe you belong, even if you don't feel fully prepared.
• 😀 It's important to look deeper when struggling with office culture, as it might reflect unresolved personal or generational patterns.
• 😀 Break the fear of failure by understanding that mistakes are opportunities to learn and won't ruin your career.
• 😀 Be cautious of generational labels—they create unnecessary silos and don't define individual work styles.
• 😀 If your workplace culture doesn’t vibe with you, it's important to introspect and address any personal triggers that may be influencing your feelings.
• 😀 Accept that there are invisible rules at work, but don’t let the fear of breaking them stop you from making decisions and taking initiative.

Q & A

What is code-switching, and why is it important in professional settings?

Code-switching refers to adjusting one's language, tone, and behavior to fit different social or professional contexts. In the workplace, it's important because it allows individuals to communicate effectively with diverse colleagues and superiors, especially when trying to be perceived as professional and competent. It helps bridge cultural or generational gaps.

How does Sarah Cooper view the role of code-switching in personal development?

Sarah Cooper views code-switching as a powerful tool for personal development. While acknowledging the effort it takes, she suggests that embracing one's authentic self, alongside the professional code-switching, is key to standing out and eventually feeling comfortable in leadership roles.

What is the issue with generational stereotypes at the workplace, according to the speakers?

Both speakers express frustration with the overgeneralization of generations like Gen Z. They argue that generational labels oversimplify complex individual behaviors and experiences. Instead, people should be treated as unique individuals rather than representatives of their entire generation.

What advice does Sarah Cooper give for navigating office culture when you don't 'vibe' with it?

Sarah Cooper suggests using difficult situations in the office as an opportunity for self-reflection. She encourages individuals to explore why certain office dynamics trigger them and to understand whether these responses are tied to deeper issues, such as generational trauma, rather than just the environment itself.

How does Sarah Cooper explain the concept of generational trauma in the workplace?

Sarah Cooper links generational trauma to patterns of behavior or responses that are passed down through generations. She suggests that if someone feels uncomfortable in the workplace, it might not just be about the current environment, but about unresolved emotional responses shaped by past family dynamics or cultural experiences.

What role does journaling play in dealing with workplace challenges, according to Sarah Cooper?

Sarah Cooper emphasizes the importance of journaling as a tool for personal growth and understanding. She believes journaling helps individuals recognize patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, which can be crucial for identifying issues like dissatisfaction or self-doubt. It was through journaling that she realized the need to leave an unhealthy marriage.

How does Sarah Cooper suggest overcoming the fear of making mistakes in a professional setting?

Sarah Cooper challenges the fear of making mistakes, which is often linked to imposter syndrome. She encourages professionals to take risks and view mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. She highlights that no mistake should be seen as career-ending, as there will always be opportunities to correct course.

What does Sarah Cooper mean by 'invisible rules' in the workplace?

Sarah Cooper refers to 'invisible rules' as unspoken or unclear expectations about how to behave or communicate in the workplace. These rules can create anxiety, especially for newcomers who are unsure of the proper conduct. She suggests that people should stop fearing these invisible rules and focus on doing what feels right for them.

Why does Sarah Cooper encourage young professionals to 'just show up' in their roles?

Sarah Cooper encourages young professionals to 'just show up' in their roles because she believes that often, the feeling of unpreparedness is driven by societal expectations or imposter syndrome. She suggests that people should trust their abilities and know that they belong in the positions they are in, even if they feel unprepared.

What is the importance of setting boundaries at work, according to the speakers?

The speakers stress the importance of setting boundaries at work to avoid burnout and maintain mental well-being. Taking breaks and recognizing when to step back from work are seen as essential for creating a sustainable career. It also ties into the broader concept of self-care and work-life balance.