As a CEO I have to walk a fine line. I want my employees to know how much I value and appreciate them. However, I don’t want to be involved in any aspect of their personal lives. And, this can be hard. Employees spend between 25-65 hours a week at work. Speaking about their personal lives is going to happen, but it should be limited. It is hard to run a successful company and maintain respect and authority once employees start spilling the beans about their challenges at the home-front.
If you’re a CEO or an employee know that the following information can be helpful. CEOs can use these tips to develop a “Standards” memo to their employees. And, employees can use this to navigate how they will be viewed by a CEO -especially when it comes to internal promotions and growth.
When at work never show a depressed or defeated mood. No matter what is going on at home, remain positive. It not only is an issue of providing great customer service and keeping the office atmosphere professional, remaining positive shows your company that you can manager your emotions to make great decisions.
Only allow the professional you to be at work. Keep personal you at home. Even if you had the best night ever, don’t share it. Your activities, comments and liquor consumption can offend others and place you in a genitive light with your company. I know we spend lots of time at work but it is important to never, ever let personal and professional you become one person.
If you are really having a tough day use PTO time. If you have been up crying all night and it is obvious then call-in sick and use a PTO day. I hate encouraging people to call in sick. However, if you have been up all night doing battle with personal issues then stay home. Red eyes, a tired look and so-forth can lead to office gossip or send the wrong impression about your after-hours activities. Plus, you need to be able to function at work. Crying all night or just dealing with personal issues can be taxing. Trust me, take a day off so you don’t end up losing your job over a needless mistake because you were tired.
Most important is the social media issues. Your co-workers and boss will “Google” you. Don’t make those private party photos or sarcastic “I hate my job” banners / postcards public. Use common sense. Messages on social media can be subjective and you wouldn’t want your boss taking any of your postings the wrong way.
Have you had a run-in with a person who brought all of his or her problems to the workplace? I would love to read your story and share your insight!
