Each company typically has some sort of handbook about the company policies—in addition to an ‘on-boarding’ process where you learn the basics of your new work environment. While specific workplace policies may vary, here are 10 general behaviors that are often considered ‘fire-able’ offenses, so make sure you take note of your professional conduct:
- Violating Company Policies: Disregarding company policies and procedures can be grounds for termination. Familiarize yourself with the employee handbook and follow guidelines related to conduct, attendance, and other relevant areas. Handbooks are also subject to change at any time and you may not always be made aware of new policies, so take care to do a review every so often.
- Insubordination: Refusing to follow the directions of supervisors or noncompliance with established authority can jeopardize your position within the company. While you may work on a team, there is usually a hierarchy in every work setting. Be careful of the personalities around you at work!
- Poor Performance: Failing to meet job expectations, deadlines, or quality standards may lead to termination. Regularly review and strive to improve your performance; improvement may mean innovating, exceeding expectations, and of course, seeking out and engaging in professional development opportunities.
- Dishonesty: Lying, falsifying records, or engaging in any form of deception can undermine trust and integrity, making termination likely.
- Harassment or Discrimination: Engaging in any form of harassment or discriminatory behavior, whether based on race, gender, religion, or other factors, is unacceptable and can result in immediate termination. If you are not familiar with American culture, you should be very careful about what you say and the assumptions you make about those around you.
- Misuse of Company Resources: Inappropriately using company time, equipment, or resources for personal gain or non-work-related activities can be grounds for dismissal.
- Attendance Issues: Chronic absenteeism, tardiness, or unapproved leave can negatively impact the workplace and may lead to termination. If there are legitimate reasons for your absence, be proactive about speaking to your supervisor or Human Resources Department to discuss your situation.
- Conflict of Interest: Engaging in activities or relationships that pose a conflict of interest with your job responsibilities can be viewed as a breach of trust and may result in termination.
- Unprofessional Conduct: Displaying unprofessional behavior, such as inappropriate language, disrespectful communication, offensive jokes, or violating confidentiality can harm your reputation and job security. Again, be aware of what is culturally unacceptable if you are new to the U.S.
- Refusing to Adapt: Failing to adapt to changes in the workplace, technology, or job responsibilities can make you obsolete and put your job at risk. Work spaces and their businesses may evolve over time, and thus, you should be adaptable to such changes for the growth of your organization and your job security.
TLDR: It is essential to be aware of your company’s specific policies and expectations, as well as to communicate openly with supervisors to address any concerns or areas of improvement. Guidance from your HR department or employee handbook are places to seek counsel and a clearer understanding of what is acceptable and appropriate at your workplace. If you find yourself in a position where you must seek new employment because your company policies do not align with your work philosophy, download theFrogHire.ai extension, which will help you search across the five major job sites to filter by your preferences (e.g., work visa sponsorship, location, field, etc.).