18 Feb 2008 04:37:51 | Marilyn J. Tellez, M.A.
ARE YOU A "JOB SNOB?"
I want to define what I think a job snob is. It is someone who
thinks that he/she is indispensable to the business where he/she
works. It is someone who thinks that an educational degree gives
one more clout in the workplace. A job snob does not socialize
with other employees nor participate much in work site politics,
except to cultivate those in higher positions.
What can a job holder do about this kind of snobbery? Or is it
necessary to do anything? Some suggestions of mine are: Keep
yourself in the social loop at the workplace. Empathize with
someone who may need mentoring. Tune into the social gossip,
don't malign others, however. Just listen and be a part of the
bantering, gossiping, or watercooler tales without passing on
information or hints that can damage anyone. A receptive
listener is always welcome at any level.
Job snobbery can be softened by looking for a next job. That job
may take more talent than you have. Drop your defenses to plan
on a next move that includes others. If you don't, whether it is
where you are now, or in a new job; the most innocuous of your
work companions can make it difficult for you if their
perception is one that you are incompetent and arrogant to boot.
Friendliness begets friendliness, even on a small scale.
Communicate with your superiors as an equal. Boot polishing is
out of favor. Maintain your dignity with them, and drop any
defensiveness or arrogance. Be your best self.
In fact, if you have a tendency to be a job snob, help out
somewhere where people have very little in the way of status or
money. A little simple humility can keep you centered, more
likeable, and promotable. Job snobs don't stay employed very
long either. Think ABOUT THAT!
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