(And What to Do About Them)
Let’s face it — no workplace is perfect. But there are a few classic staff behaviours that seem to pop up everywhere… like that one leftover sandwich in the fridge from 2021.
As someone who’s managed teams for more years than I care to admit (and survived to tell the tale), here are my top five please-don’t-do-this moments — served with a side of humour and a dash of tough love.
It All Started One Morning Over Coffee…
…with a peer group of executives chatting about their staff and the issues they seem to have. I’m sure it resonates with many.
They weren’t whinging (well… maybe just a little). They were reflecting. Because no matter the industry, it turns out everyone faces the same head-scratching behaviours — the kind that make you question if someone’s secretly filming a sitcom in the office.
My take? Most of it sits somewhere between communication and expectations — or rather, the gaps in both. When one party assumes, the other resents. When expectations are unclear, performance wobbles. And when no one speaks up, things get weird.
So, in the spirit of insight and a bit of fun — here’s my latest newsletter:
1. The Chronic Sick-Day-itis Right Before a Deadline
Apparently, nothing triggers a 24-hour virus quite like a looming client meeting. Miraculous timing, really.
2. The “That’s Not My Job” Attitude
Teamwork makes the dream work… unless someone’s dream is to do absolutely nothing outside their job description.
3. The Vanishing Act
Their chair is warm. Their login is active. But no one’s seen them since morning tea. Maybe they’re in a meeting… with the Bermuda Triangle.
4. The Reply-All Philosopher
Every email becomes a short story. Bonus points if it starts with “Just my two cents…” and ends in an accidental all-staff reply.
5. The Unofficial Office DJ
Volume: loud. Playlist: questionable. And always just when you’re trying to concentrate on a grant application or the end-of-month report.
The Serious Bit
Let’s not kid ourselves — these habits, while easy to joke about, usually point to something deeper: unclear expectations, poor communication, low morale… or full-blown disengagement.
And that’s where leadership comes in.
The real trick? Spotting the signs early — and being brave (and respectful) enough to have the conversation before it festers.
💬 What’s the Worst You’ve Seen?
I want to hear from you — what’s the most frustrating staff habit you’ve come across?
Or, if you’re feeling brave… what’s one you were guilty of in a past life?
No names, just stories.
Hit reply. Or better yet, comment and let’s get a conversation going — the good, the bad, and the “please make it stop.”
Until next time — keep your fridge clean and your office headphones on.
Kind regards, Colin Jorgensen
