Back in an office AND I have something to say
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When you are new to a job open plan can be daunting and, after a couple of months, people’s habits can really make you question your sanity life choices.
My top pet peeves in the workplace are:
mirrors in the lift
The mirrors and lighting. I know I did not leave the house looking like my reflection in the lift mirrors. Why would you do this to a person before my second coffee? Why?
Also, no lift ride is long enough to read the messages on those tiny screens. Save your money advertisers. Remember those ads played in cinemas before the movie begins? No, I didn’t think so?
A note to building designers – please people put numbered buttons back in elevators, vinyl panels on the walls and a little cheesy orchestral Carpenters for my ears.
Mornings are hard enough already.
music lovers
If you are listening to music please don’t whistle along. Once, after much angst, I asked a colleague if he realised he was whistling and that it was a little distracting. He took it well and we had a little laugh. The next day he hummed instead…
sick people
*written before Covid but still valid
Don’t come to the office in the morning and then go home halfway through the day to show that you are really sick. The investment of your germs in my environment is not welcome. Ever.
When “The Whistler” had a cold he tried to expel the frog in this throat with such vigor, his hefty gullet became engaged. Thankfully, I was wearing a collared shirt so my neck was protected, just in case.
the best friend
When I am new to an office this is my favourite pastime. I love waiting to see who will rush to become the new girl’s best friend, dish the dirt on everyone and reveal a secret.
The secret is important – she will tell something juicy in return for something back. Not right away but there is a debt to be paid and it will be called upon sometime in the near future.
Look for “Just between you and me”, “Don’t tell anyone but…” or “I know you will keep this to yourself”.
Love it. Tell me everything.
What are your pet peeves at the office?