by Jane Mays-Evans

Created on: May 26, 2009   Last Updated: June 03, 2009

When we were kids, there was nothing worse than hearing your name being called to the Principal's office. Now that we are adults, it can be just as nerve racking being called into the boss's office. There are many things that you can do that will get you into trouble at work. Here are some things you should try to avoid:

1. The Internet. One of the biggest issues we have at my place of employment is the overuse of the Internet by the employees. From emails to music downloads, there is nothing positive that can come from being caught playing on the Internet. With Facebook, My Space, and Twitter use becoming more and more popular, it is hard for people to catch up on the latest news and gossip while at work. However, some of these social networks can cause gossip problems in the workplace and ones like My Space, can cause problems for the company's Internet service. The most important thing you can do is leave your computer life at home when you are at work. You can spend hours surfing the web, but that's not good for your job or your company.

2. The gossip. The gossip can often go along with the Internet usage. In either case, there is nothing worse than someone who is always going around trying to find out what is going on or talking about other employees. You are there to do your job. You shouldn't spend your time worrying about someone else's. If they aren't doing their job, it will show. It is not your place to let it be known. Gossip is hurtful and can bring the morale of the whole company down. You are there to work, worry about that.

3. Misuse of time. Companies are not paying employees to handle their personal stuff at work all day. It is annoying to see people paying their bills, excessively using phones, and doing homework while on the clock. Sure there may be some down time and sure it may be important once in a blue moon, but some are making work time their personal time and that is a for sure way to get in trouble. Use your lunch break to do things you can't do after 5 pm. You may need to take a personal day to get some things done, but doing personal business at work is a big no-no.

4. Building loafing. These are the people who are seen all over the building talking to any or everyone. These employees spend half their day going around talking to people about weekend plans or news. Often times, they are not gossipers rather social butterflies. This behavior goes with misuse of time. The company is not hiring you to make friends and conversations

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