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Having been in the workplace for 19 years I've learned through personal experience and observations the kinds of foolish things people do at work that can jeopardize their job or even their entire career. As the workplace of the modern age becomes more casual it seems that many need a refresher course in basic manners, respect for others and comportment. What kinds of things should people avoid at work?

1. One of the most persistent, pernicious problems in the workplace is gossip. Whether you are involved directly in it or a listener, getting involved in work politics is bad business. I've found that it is best to stay away from people who always have something to say about everyone or everything. They constantly bear rumors of bad goings-on that can bring down morale and productivity and worst of all, they are often behind slander and negative gossip about others. They are troublemakers who like to get the pot stirred and these types of people can get you into a lot of trouble! There's nothing worse than being in the middle of an office controversy or behind unfounded rumors and having other people think poorly of you because of it. Another thing to remember is that no matter how juicy and good the gossip is about some other workmate, you can believe that whoever is busy dispensing it is also talking about you!

2. Abusing company time is also a big no-no. Some people assume that because no one is watching that it doesn't really matter what they do at work. Like making numerous phone calls, surfing the web when you shouldn't or going to inappropriate sites while at work, constantly taking breaks, running errands and doing other things when you should be working. Don't think that others don't notice what you're doing. While you are at work you are being paid to work, not fool around on company time.

3. Constantly calling in sick, while technically isn't something a person does at work, it affects the workplace. When you're not on the job you're not DOING your job. People get sick. People need time off. That's understandable. Sometimes you just need to take a personal day or two. But some people take this to extremes. I've seen a lot of people get fired over this. Other's have to cover for you when this is done and that makes everyone's job a lot harder. You were hired to fulfill the job's responsibilities. Always taking off work when you should be there is unfair to others and it's dishonest. It's fine to take off a day if you need one either because you are sick,

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