It sounds so very simple. And it is simple. Just smile.
Welcome to the first in our series of blogs on preparing to enter the working world.
Transitioning into the workforce can be a daunting prospect. That space between finishing school or university and nailing your job interviews. That place of mental adjustment in the first months or years of your job when you are adapting, fitting in and trying to shine. School and work have vastly different expectations. So, whether you or your child are moving towards the working world, or job interview process, we hope you enjoy this series of blogs on becoming Work Ready.
The importance of a smile in the workplace
It sounds so very simple. And it is simple. Just smile. We talk about smiles a lot at June Dally-Watkins. One of our podcast listeners recently hired a young woman who smiled and seemed like a happy person during her job interview.
But once her position was secured, it was though she forgot how to turn the corners of her mouth up. Our listener found herself tip-toing around her new employee, asking if she was OK, happy, any problems at work? All good at home? The young woman nodded and shrugged.
‘Yes, everything is fine.’ But gave no smile of reassurance to her worried employer. And offered no smile to lift the vibe in the office. She didn’t seem to know that smiling eases tension and fosters goodwill – among so many other things.
How important is a smile when at work? Essential!
Being around colleagues who never smile is a major downer for work mates. It’s a buzz kill for the entire office atmosphere. Smiles are an important communication tool. They create trust and a rapport with business associates and customers.
Smiles establish a welcome and warm environment. People want to work with people who smile. Bosses want to employ people who smile. Afterall, it helped that young employee get her job. But not smiling will prevent her from advancing in her career.
There is a growing thought that not smiling results in people taking you more seriously.
Those against the power of the smile say smiling can make you appear a lightweight or lacking in authority. JDW is not asking you to fake a smile. JDW is not saying smile all the time.
It’s OK and important to let people know how you feel. However, facts show that smiling in the workplace shows empathy. And one of the most important and sought after qualities in leadership today is empathy.
It also pays to remember that employers want you to smile. Even when you don’t feel like it.
To be ready for work, please understand that your bad moods will not be indulged in the office like they are at home. An employee is being paid to present themselves at work with a decent demeanour.
Besides, smiles are contagious.
Smiling brings joy to the giver and receiver. A smile has the power to brighten even the gloomiest of moments. Why not be the person who brings the workplace up, rather than down? Try to be a positive influence at work. You can be that person!
Manners are a tricky business. But it’s our business and we love sharing it with you.
Drop us a line at June Dally-Watkins any time, with any questions. We are here to help you navigate. It’s what we do.