How to Be Humble at Work

People normally do only what is assigned on the job. Humility involves more than just completing what is expected. It also involves not always receiving recognition for doing the extras. Practicing humility pays off by creating a climate that repels fakeness in the workplace, and improves relationships within all levels of the organization. Humility can reduce anxiety, encourage openness and enhance the self-confidence of employees. Follow these steps to improve relationships on the job site.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Remember

1. Be realistic about your abilities and skills and look for ways to improve. Learn from others when beginning a new job. Realize that coworkers can show you overlooked issues.
2. Work within the chain of command. Take your ideas to the right person when you see that change is needed. Provide information tactfully. Respect the decisions of your supervisor. Remember that your supervisor can replace you.
3. Become aware of other people's experiences and situations.
4. Reflect on people who recognized your potential and helped to develop your gifts.

Acknowledge

5. Congratulate colleagues' success without being envious.
6. Keep mental notes so you will recall how and when other employees helped on a project. Make a list of your job tasks so you can streamline the process. Use the list to help the next learn the job quickly.
7. Describe specifically what aspects of a project a coworker completed.
8. Let colleagues know why you appreciate working with them.

Cooperate

9. Observe what tasks coworkers enjoy most and their strengths. Place them in a position to improve their skills. Help cross-train workers so they can assist others during busy times.
10. Assign tasks according to each person's abilities.
11. Recognize your role. Perform it to the best of your ability.

Listen

12. Stop what you are doing and ask for guidance when you are unsure how to proceed. Recognize unwritten procedures and request instructions.
13. Consider other worker's ideas and accept criticism gracefully.
14. Listen to people's advice, even when you have heard the advice before.
15. Remember what you learned from each failure and success. Apply that knowledge to your present situation.

Help

16. Understand what others need before volunteering to help. Determine what your role will be in providing assistance.
17. Take care of needs instead of trying to be a hero that "saves the day."
18. Help others when you can, regardless of your experiences with them.