In order for your colleagues to like you more, it isn’t enough just to learn new ways of behavior. It is sometimes necessary to stop working on it and to remove the bad habits that exist. They only hurt your work reputation.
We’re going to present you a handful of bad habits that hinder your progress in the workplace. Pay close attention to them and try to improve yourself.
1. You interrupt others while they speak
A very uncultured and arrogant move. Maybe you do have a bright idea or an adequate answer, but for the sake of it, wait for the others to finish talking, then state your intentions.
If you think you will lose your thought if you wait, then always keep a notebook at hand and write everything down. Try to listen to the other person, rather than thinking about what to answer.
Constantly interrupting can signal insecurity or impatience rather than confidence. It makes people feel disrespected, which slowly erodes trust and collaboration. For example, imagine a team meeting where someone keeps cutting off others to “save time” — it may seem efficient, but others feel unheard. Instead, practicing active listening—nodding, paraphrasing, and asking clarifying questions—shows emotional intelligence and earns you long-term respect.
2. You are late at meetings
Being late in a meeting, especially if your colleagues or boss summons it, is not good. Avoid being remembered as the one who is always late and does not respect the others.
Chronic lateness not only wastes others’ time but also signals disorganization. Colleagues subconsciously equate punctuality with reliability. To improve, plan backward—if your meeting starts at 10:00, aim to be ready by 9:50. Use reminders or digital calendars. And if you’re running late due to an unavoidable reason, communicate in advance. Simple gestures like this demonstrate professionalism and empathy.
3. You try multitasking
A person can not do more things simultaneously – when checking your e-mail, you must at least for a moment leave the other task. Perhaps you are used to such dynamics, but it gives the impression that you are nervous and de-concentrated. The working atmosphere should be serious, but also relaxed.
Research from Stanford University shows that multitasking can actually reduce productivity by up to 40%. It splits your attention and makes you prone to errors. For instance, replying to emails during a presentation might make you miss critical points, and it signals disinterest. Instead, focus on one task at a time using techniques like the Pomodoro method or time blocking.
4. You talk too much
When you present something at a meeting, do it briefly and clearly. If you are overwhelming while speaking, no matter how interesting it is, people will start looking at their watches.
Therefore, bring out the essence and everything else, shorten if you can. It’s better to develop discussion and thus broaden the topic than just talk for hours.
Talking too much can make others feel you’re dominating the conversation or not valuing their input. A good habit is to pause after every key point and invite others to contribute; phrases like “What do you think?” or “Does that make sense to everyone?” encourage collaboration
5. You ignore the order in the kitchen
You cannot leave your coffee cup everywhere you want. Everyone has enough work during the day even without your negligence. Be neat – in the kitchen, in the toilet, at your work desk etc.
Believe me, everyone despises people who are not complying with the responsibilities of the workplace, so avoid making these headaches to your colleagues.
Workplace etiquette extends beyond your desk. Shared spaces like the kitchen or meeting room reflect your respect for the collective environment. Small actions, washing your dishes, refilling the coffee pot, or throwing away trash, show maturity and teamwork.
6. You do not acknowledge your mistakes
The first rule of public relations in times of crisis is the recognition of a mistake. Recognize that you have made a mistake, excuse yourself and look for a way and advice on how to fix the error. Or take it peacefully with the consequences. Such a position of personal responsibility is very respectable and can only benefit your work reputation.
Trying to cover up or blame others for errors creates lasting damage. Admitting mistakes openly builds credibility. For example, if you missed a deadline, acknowledge it, outline what went wrong, and share how you’ll prevent it next time. This transparency not only restores trust but also shows maturity and leadership potential. Remember, everyone makes mistakes; it’s how you respond that defines your professionalism.
7. How to Build a Positive Work Reputation
Building a good reputation isn’t just about avoiding bad habits, it’s about consistently demonstrating reliability, respect, and growth. Be the person who listens, delivers on promises, and helps others when possible. For instance, mentoring a new colleague or volunteering for a project outside your comfort zone shows initiative and teamwork. Over time, these small actions accumulate into a powerful professional image that opens new opportunities.
Conclusion
Workplace reputation takes years to build but only moments to ruin. By becoming aware of these habits and intentionally replacing them with mindful behavior, you’ll strengthen your relationships and credibility at work.
Think of reputation as your silent résumé; it speaks before you do. The colleagues who are seen as dependable, empathetic, and respectful are the ones who earn long-term trust and leadership opportunities. Start small, show up on time, listen more, and take responsibility for your actions. Each mindful step you take today lays the foundation for a strong and respected career tomorrow.
Thanks for reading this post! – MyPlugin