Saturday, October 30, 2010

ARE YOU A "JOB SNOB?"

I want to define what I think a job snob is. It is someone who thinks that he/she is indispensable to the business where he/she works. It is someone who thinks that an educational degree gives one more clout in the workplace. A job snob does not socialize with other employees nor participate much in work site politics, except to cultivate those in higher positions.

What can a job holder do about this kind of snobbery? Or is it necessary to do anything? Some suggestions of mine are: Keep yourself in the social loop at the workplace. Empathize with someone who may need mentoring. Tune into the social gossip, don't malign others, however. Just listen and be a part of the bantering, gossiping, or watercooler tales without passing on information or hints that can damage anyone. A receptive listener is always welcome at any level. 

Job snobbery can be softened by looking for a next job. That job may take more talent than you have. Drop your defenses to plan on a next move that includes others. If you don't, whether it is where you are now, or in a new job; the most innocuous of your work companions can make it difficult for you if their perception is one that you are incompetent and arrogant to boot. Friendliness begets friendliness, even on a small scale.

Communicate with your superiors as an equal. Boot polishing is out of favor. Maintain your dignity with them, and drop any defensiveness or arrogance. Be your best self.
In fact, if you have a tendency to be a job snob, help out somewhere where people have very little in the way of status or money. A little simple humility can keep you centered, more likeable, and promotable. Job snobs don't stay employed very long either. Think ABOUT THAT!

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