We all want to work in an environment that allows us to be our unique selves. But sometimes, this desire can hold us back. Why? Because you’re not in charge. Someone else is. Often, that “someone else” is a curmudgeon.
What Is a Curmudgeon?
A curmudgeon is defined as “a badly tempered or surly person.” Think of your grumpy grandpa who hates man-buns (and let’s face it, only the men sporting them seem to like them). While not every organization has a curmudgeon in charge, most have leaders who set clear expectations for conduct. If you don’t align with these expectations, your career growth could be stunted. To “get in,” you need to “fit in.”
In polite society, feedback is often unspoken. You may not be told what you’re doing wrong; instead, you’ll be passed over for promotions or opportunities. This blog explores common expectations and behaviors that can impact your career progression.
How You Look
Appearance Matters
Like it or not, people judge others by their appearance. Visible tattoos, unconventional piercings, and unnatural hair colors may prompt curmudgeons to dismiss you. If they don’t outright reject you, you may find yourself relegated to roles that minimize your visibility. For these reasons, it’s wise to:
Keep tattoos covered.
Avoid extreme piercings (like gauges or brow rings).
Stick to natural hair colors and conventional styles.
Dress to Impress
Even in casual office settings, take cues from senior leaders. If they’re not dressing casually, neither should you. A few guidelines:
Entry-Level Roles: Opt for business casual (e.g., slacks, button-up shirts, blouses).
Higher-Level Roles: Invest in tailored suits and polished shoes.
Always Avoid: Sneakers, overly casual attire, and unkempt appearances.
Remember, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.”
How You Communicate
Avoid Filler Words
Using “like” as a filler can make you sound unprofessional. Practice pausing instead. Silence can be powerful and commands attention. This is especially critical during interviews or high-stakes conversations.
Email Etiquette
Emails are a critical part of workplace communication. Follow these best practices:
Avoid sending one-line emails.
If a conversation requires more than two back-and-forth emails, pick up the phone or visit in person.
Use bullet points for clarity and provide concise summaries.
Avoid emojis and excessive acronyms, which can appear unprofessional.
Be Mindful of Language
Curmudgeons dislike buzzwords and overused phrases. Avoid terms like:
Synergy
Deep dive
Drill down
Think outside the box
Additionally, refrain from using profanity in professional settings. Swearing diminishes your perceived maturity and professionalism.
How You Act
Punctuality and Initiative
Being punctual demonstrates respect for others’ time. Arriving a few minutes early is ideal. When you finish your tasks, find additional ways to contribute—organizing your workspace or preparing for the next day.
Focus on Your Work
Avoid fixating on what others are or aren’t doing. Complaining about colleagues only creates additional problems for your boss and reflects poorly on you.
Social Events and Office Parties
Alcohol: Know your limits or abstain entirely. These events are about networking, not drinking.
Office Romances: Proceed cautiously. Breakups can disrupt workplace harmony, and relationships can hinder promotions if one partner supervises the other.
Controversial Topics
Avoid polarizing conversations about religion or politics. If unavoidable, listen without agreeing or disagreeing, then change the subject or excuse yourself.
Conclusion
Navigating workplace expectations doesn’t mean losing your individuality, but it does require self-awareness and adaptability. By dressing appropriately, communicating effectively, and behaving professionally, you can align with curmudgeon expectations and pave the way for career growth.
Remember, small adjustments in how you present yourself can have a big impact on how others perceive your potential.