by Todd Hicks

Created on: May 15, 2010

Are you someone who just started a new job? If so, are you feeling uneasy in regard to how long you are likely to stick around? Your job security is largely in your hands; however, you will not always be told how well you are doing. You will sometimes receive silent signals. You will learn nonverbal cues to watch out for at work.

No co-worker or supervisor wants to get close to you – they either move back after reaching close proximity with you or they always keep their distance while holding their noses. This means you reek of something from a lack of deodorant; a cologne or perfume that is too strong; using tobacco or being exposed to secondhand smoke; walking a long way to work in hot weather; etc. Some employers will get rid of you for this without saying anything about it.

Somebody at the office gives you an “o” sign by bringing his or her second finger to his or her thumb while raising the other three fingers. This means you have just done something well.

You are given a “thumbs up” sign. This is another indication you are being successful at your position.

Someone in the corporation gives you a “thumbs down” signal. This is not encouraging.

The boss yanks his finger across his throat. This either means you better get your act together or your job is on the line.

Someone who works in your vicinity puts her finger to her lips while you have a radio playing or you are on the telephone. This is a way of asking you to turn the volume down or talk more quietly.

A supervisor or fellow employee nods his head while you speak. This means he agrees with you.

Your fellow worker or the boss shakes her head while you speak. She disagrees with you.

The other people at your firm listen to everything you say. This is a sign of acceptance and respect.

You are ignored at the office. This lets you know you are not highly thought of.

A supervisor constantly watches you or monitors your phone conversations. He must not trust you.

Most of those you work with smile genuinely when they see or talk with you. This means they probably like you.

Others frown at you. You must work on being liked.

You have not gotten a raise, promotion, extra responsibility or an invitation to attend a company meeting in a while. This is an indication you are on the bubble.

Pay attention to these cues at work to thrive!

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