There’s a fine line between being human and being unprofessional at work.
Sure, we all have our off days. But certain behaviors can quickly erode your credibility in the office, according to psychology.
It’s not about being perfect all the time. It’s about understanding how our actions can influence others’ perceptions of us. And in the workplace, perception often equals reality.
In this article, we’ll explore seven behaviors that could be sabotaging your professional reputation without you even realizing it.
Remember, gaining credibility isn’t just about what you do, but also what you avoid doing.
Let’s dive in.
1) Neglecting to listen
Listening is a fundamental aspect of communication. Yet, it’s a skill we often overlook in the workplace.
We get so caught up in our own thoughts, ideas, and agendas that we fail to truly hear what others are saying. This doesn’t just hinder collaboration and creative problem-solving, but it also chips away at your credibility.
Psychologist Carl Rogers once said, “True listening involves setting aside of oneself.” When we fail to do this, we send the message that we value our own thoughts more than others’. And that’s not a good look for anyone.
Active listening shows respect and understanding. It builds trust and rapport. And it’s a surefire way to improve your credibility in any professional setting.
So next time you’re in a meeting or a one-on-one conversation, take a moment to truly listen. It’s more powerful than you might think.
2) Failing to deliver on promises
I remember a time when I was collaborating on a project with a colleague. We were both responsible for different components, and our success depended on each other’s deliverables.
My colleague consistently promised to complete her tasks “by tomorrow” but tomorrow came and went, again and again, without any progress.
This behavior not only delayed our project but also significantly impacted my perception of her reliability and credibility.
Famed psychologist Albert Bandura once said, “In order to succeed, people need a sense of self-efficacy, struggle together with resilience to meet the inevitable obstacles and inequities of life.”
When we fail to deliver on our promises, we’re not just letting down our colleagues or superiors. We’re also undermining our own self-efficacy and resilience, two key ingredients for success.
So remember, it’s better to under-promise and over-deliver than to make promises you can’t keep.
And if you do find yourself unable to meet a commitment, be upfront about it. Honesty can go a long way in maintaining credibility during challenging times.
3) Avoiding responsibility
How many times have you seen someone pass the buck when things go wrong?
It’s a common occurrence in the workplace, and it’s a surefire way to lose credibility. When we fail to take responsibility for our actions, we send the message that we can’t be trusted to own our mistakes or learn from them.
Psychologist Carl Jung once said, “Knowing your own darkness is the best method for dealing with the darkness of other people.”
This quote speaks volumes about the importance of self-awareness and accountability in personal development.
In a work context, owning your mistakes shows maturity, integrity, and the willingness to learn and grow, which are all crucial for maintaining credibility.
So next time you’re tempted to point fingers or make excuses, stop. Take a deep breath, own your mistake, and consider what you can learn from the experience.
It might be a tough pill to swallow, but it’ll do wonders for your credibility in the long run.
4) Failing to respect boundaries
Navigating professional boundaries can be tricky, but it’s essential for maintaining credibility at work. Crossing these boundaries can lead to discomfort, tension, and a loss of respect.
A study conducted by psychologists at Columbia University found that people who maintain appropriate personal and professional boundaries are perceived as more trustworthy and competent.
The research highlighted that individuals who respected others’ space and privacy were generally more accepted and appreciated within their social and professional circles.
In the workplace, this could mean refraining from gossip, respecting colleagues’ personal space, or not encroaching on others’ roles or responsibilities.
So remember, respecting boundaries isn’t just about playing nice. It’s about acknowledging and appreciating the individuality of your colleagues, which goes a long way in establishing your credibility.
5) Being a constant naysayer
We’ve all encountered that person at work who always sees the glass as half empty.
They’re quick to shoot down ideas and slow to offer any constructive solutions. This behavior can be draining for the entire team and quickly erodes the person’s credibility.
As a psychologist myself, I often remind people of the words of renowned psychologist Martin Seligman, who is known for his work on learned optimism.
He once said, “When we take a broader view of optimism, we begin to see that it isn’t just an attitude but a tool for building a better future.”
Being a constant naysayer not only undermines team morale but also hinders progress and innovation.
By focusing on problems rather than seeking solutions, you’re stifling growth – both your own and that of your team.
So next time you’re tempted to be negative, try to catch yourself. Consider Seligman’s words and focus on being part of the solution rather than dwelling on the problem.
Your credibility at work will thank you.
6) Always saying ‘yes’
It might sound surprising, but always saying ‘yes’ to everything can actually harm your credibility at work.
While it might seem like you’re being helpful and accommodating, it can often lead to overcommitment and underperformance.
Psychologist Abraham Maslow famously said, “It isn’t normal to know what we want. It is a rare and difficult psychological achievement.”
This quote beautifully illustrates the importance of understanding our own boundaries and capabilities.
By always agreeing to take on more work or additional tasks, you risk spreading yourself too thin and not delivering on your promises.
Remember, it’s okay to say ‘no’ when you’re overwhelmed or when something doesn’t align with your skills or priorities.
This shows that you value your work quality and mental well-being, which in turn increases your credibility.
7) Lack of empathy
In the words of psychologist Daniel Goleman, “Empathy represents the foundation skill for all the social competencies important for work.”
Workplaces thrive on human connection. If you’re unable to understand and share the feelings of others, your credibility is likely to take a hit.
So, show genuine interest in your colleagues and be there for them. It’s as simple, and as complex, as that.
Final thoughts
The landscape of workplace dynamics is as complex and varied as the human mind itself.
Our behaviors, often stemming from our subconscious, have a profound influence on how we are perceived in our professional environments. These perceptions, in turn, shape our credibility and our professional trajectory.
As we navigate our careers, it’s important to be mindful of these seven behaviors. Remember, it’s not just about doing the right things but also about avoiding the wrong ones.
Take some time to reflect on your own behaviors. Are there any areas you could improve? Any habits you could change?
The journey towards maintaining credibility at work isn’t always easy, but it’s crucial for professional growth and success.
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