When Curiosity Becomes Invasive

If Only So Innocent!

Working with people who have diverse backgrounds and varying personalities can make for a challenging environment. It is not until you understand how to maneuver around their intricacies and pet peeves that a working relationship can be fostered.  Sometimes it is in our best interest to take some time to familiarize ourselves with our co-workers but not to the point where it violates the privacy of which they, in fact we all, are entitled. 

For example, LinkedIn is a great social media networking site for professionals and entrepreneurs. However it should not be used to profile how important a person is by the volume or influence of connections. That is, after all, not a true reflection because everyone the person really knows is not social networking on this site. 

If a co-worker has been hired or placed in position, it should be taken as face value that he/she is either qualified or knows somebody. In either case, asking for a resume or trying to determine his/her qualifications after the fact is demeaning, puts them on the defense subconsciously and  immediately causes mistrust. 

Additionally, there are also certain questions people ask that have nothing to do with building a relationship. These are just out of line. Questions like: where do you live (specific city or community)? When did you buy your house?  What type of car do you drive?  What are you doing or did you do for the weekend?These questions are not about finding similarity but most frequently used to assess people's lifestyles and potential net worth.

Pay attention to people that are too curious and over exert themselves in "getting to know you". They are likely to be untrustworthy individuals because they have no respect for both professionalism and privacy. Identify your privacy limits and know who is invading them. This exercise of discernment is necessary to understand how to deal with people working with and for you. 

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Posted in: Business Etiquette,Employees,Get A Clue,Impressing People,management consulting,Temeko Richardson