In the workplace, impulse control is non-negotiable, especially since even a momentary lapse in judgment can have serious consequences for your career.
You need to have the maturity and self-control to know how to act appropriately at your place of employment, especially if you want to continue working there. Here are 14 impulsive behaviours that could potentially jeopardise your job security and professional reputation.
1. Losing your temper in front of colleagues or clients
We all have bad days, but letting your anger get the best of you at work can be disastrous. Shouting, throwing things, or storming out during a meeting not only looks unprofessional but can create a hostile work environment. Take a deep breath and step away if you feel your temper rising.
2. Sending emails without proofreading
In the rush to clear your inbox, it’s tempting to fire off emails without a second glance. However, typos, incorrect information, or accidental “reply all” messages can lead to misunderstandings or embarrassment. Always take a moment to review before hitting send.
3. Gossiping about coworkers or superiors
Office gossip might seem harmless, but it can quickly spiral out of control. Sharing rumours or speaking ill of colleagues can damage relationships and trust. If word gets back to management, it could be seen as creating a negative work environment.
4. Making important decisions without consulting anyone else
While taking initiative is generally positive, making big decisions on impulse without consulting relevant team members or superiors can backfire. It might be seen as overstepping boundaries or not being a team player. Always consider who needs to be involved in decision-making processes.
5. Oversharing personal information
It’s natural to form friendships at work, but sharing too much personal information can blur professional boundaries. Impulsively discussing intimate details of your life or complaining about personal problems might make colleagues uncomfortable and affect how you’re seen professionally.
6. Taking credit for other people’s work
In the heat of the moment, you might be tempted to claim credit for a successful project or idea. However, failing to acknowledge your colleagues’ contributions can seriously damage your relationships and reputation. Always give credit where it’s due.
7. Making inappropriate jokes or comments
What seems like a harmless joke to you could be offensive to other people. Impulsively blurting out inappropriate comments, even if meant in jest, can create an uncomfortable work environment and potentially lead to disciplinary action. Think before you speak, especially in professional settings.
8. Neglecting important tasks for more enjoyable ones
It’s easy to get distracted by tasks you enjoy and put off the less appealing ones. However, consistently neglecting important responsibilities in favour of more pleasant work can affect your productivity and reliability. Prioritise your tasks based on importance, not just preference.
9. Sharing confidential information
In casual conversation, you might be tempted to share insider information about your company or clients. This breach of confidentiality, even if unintentional, can have serious legal and professional consequences. Always err on the side of caution when it comes to sensitive information.
10. Calling in sick when you’re not
We’ve all had days when we just don’t feel like going to work. However, impulsively calling in sick when you’re not actually ill is dishonest and can destroy trust with your boss. If you need a day off, it’s better to use your holiday time properly.
11. Making promises you can’t keep
To please other people or seem more capable, you might impulsively agree to deadlines or commitments you can’t realistically meet. The problem is that consistently failing to deliver on your promises can damage your credibility and reliability in the workplace. Be honest about what you can accomplish.
12. Using social media during work hours
It’s tempting to check your personal social media accounts when you’re bored at work. However, excessive social media use during work hours can significantly impact your productivity and may be against company policy. Save the scrolling for your breaks or after work.
13. Reacting defensively to feedback
Receiving criticism can be challenging, but reacting impulsively with anger or defensiveness can harm your professional relationships. Instead of immediately arguing or making excuses, take a moment to listen and consider the feedback. A measured, thoughtful response is always more professional.
14. Quitting on the spot
No matter how frustrating your job might be, impulsively quitting without notice can burn bridges and potentially impact future job prospects. Even if you’re certain about leaving, it’s better to give proper notice and leave on good terms. You never know when you might cross paths with former colleagues or employers again.
