This article discusses some of the unwritten company rules your boss will never tell you. Not all company rules are written down, so it is up to you to figure out some of these unwritten company rules.

Most businesses have policies and processes in place. If you’re unsure what they are, a short read of the employee handbook will reveal the rules and the expected norms of conduct and ethics. You can use the rule book as a road map to help you navigate the system.

However, you will quickly realize that while these are written standards governing how the organization functions, they are not followed by everyone. Indeed, the more you pay attention to the job dynamics, the more you’ll see that there are numerous unwritten regulations that no one informs you about. As a result, you’re forced to figure things out through trial and error, and you can end up in a delicate situation. Also, it is up to you to figure out all of your company’s rules to succeed.

These are some of the unwritten company rules your boss will never tell you.

Getting Promoted is not just by who does the best work.

Politics, loyalty, and favors all play a significant role in decision-making. So many companies base their promotion on a large percentage, like 80 percent of their promotion decisions on performance and 20% on relationships and politics. Most times, it’s 50/50, depending on the company. What does it take to advance in your organization or be hired? To get ahead, you must first learn the rules.

Don’t Disrespect Seniority

Some people pick a job and stay there for an extended period. However, they might not bring much to the table or be good at what they do. In any case, this type of person is frequently found in the workplace. Show respect for those who have been with the organization longer than you have, even if you are a senior executive.

Furthermore, those that have been around for a long time have a lot of connections. They may not be ambitious in chasing promotions or leaving for a better opportunity. Still, they understand their place in the company, and they may know things that can assist you in avoiding making costly mistakes.

The Open Door Policy

You might come across a hidden treasure of a company that says the CEO’s door is always open! Bring your greatest ideas and share them with us! We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

The truth could be entirely different. Your boss, it turns out, isn’t fond of the concept of you walking into the executive suite and spewing all of your genii.

Furthermore, as appealing as an open door concept is, it is not always practical. The CEO may never be available or may only have a few minutes to spend with you or any other employee.

If your organization claims to have this policy, keep an eye on whether or not anyone follows it (and what happens when they do). This is one of the unwritten company rules your boss will never tell you.

How to Dress

When you were called in for an interview with the hiring manager and your prospective team members, did you dress up for the occasion? Do you need to maintain that look regularly?

Notice whether your coworkers are dressed in jeans and flip-flops or business-casual wear as you move through your new job. Depending on your employment, you may or may not be able to wear a T-shirt and sneakers. You have to keep in mind that your clothing affects how confident, creative, and competent you feel in anything you do. And it certainly affects how the rest sees you of the group, so dress appropriately.

In addition, you need to look out for what your co-workers are wearing, don’t use too many accessories if others are not using them. Generally, observe others and follow suit.

Not Every Department Rules Are The Same

Your boss’s policies may differ from those in another department with the same title. It’s a sign if you’ve been told, “This is how we do it in this department.” It’s impossible to presume that everyone follows the same rules. They can have their own set of unwritten regulations. As a result, it’s critical to pay attention and tread cautiously, lest you trip and break someone’s special rule.

Don’t be a regular complainer.

Everyone has a job gripe now and again. It’s fine as long as it’s harmless and infrequent, and it won’t cause any concern. You don’t want to be one of those constantly complaining people.

However, you don’t have to be constantly cheerful, but you should be in a good mood. Others may agree with someone who complains excessively, but some may think, “If it’s that bad, why don’t you just leave?”

That’s an excellent question because frequent complainers can soon earn a bad reputation. You don’t want your coworkers to think that way about you.

Don’t isolate yourself at work and be a good person.

The unwritten rulebook essentially boils down to “be a good person who respects others.” Simple gestures such as being more inclusive in your lunch invitations or greeting everyone when you encounter them for the first time go a long way. Consider how you’d like a youngster to act once they’ve acquired correct manners (or how you hope they’ll work); this is a solid behavioral guideline.

Generally, isolating yourself at work will only give you a negative name; even if you don’t like your job, try as much as possible to engage with your co-workers, participate in the office social lives and enjoy.

When to take a vacation

It’s no secret that Millennials don’t want to be tethered to their desks. However, each organization has its definition of work-life balance. Your vacation policy will specify how much time you can take off. The culture will reveal whether or not people are genuinely following the policy.

Do you notice that others have a lot of vacation days planned and taken? Or do you have a lot of office absences? Employees may be hesitant to take much time off even if their company provides unlimited vacation time. 

Furthermore, Observing your coworkers’ conduct will give you a feel of what that vacation policy looks like in practice and how much flexibility you’ll have for all that adventurous travel you’ve been saving for.

The present work is challenging and competitive. If you believe that simply following the stated rules would help you succeed, you are setting yourself up for potential landmines. Even if the rules are never explicitly addressed, people will hold you accountable for knowing them all. However, to navigate the reality of your firm, use your strong observation and listening abilities to discover the written and unwritten norms. These are some of the unwritten company rules your boss will never tell you.