One of the origins of this phrase- mind your p’s and q’s- states that it came from a rule of thumb for bartenders to watch their patrons (p) and the quarts (q) of alcohol that they consume.  So in other words, look out for those around you.  Even though alcohol doesn’t come into play at the work place (well for most of us), being cognizant of those around us should always be part of the professional demeanor we don.

What do I mean by that?  Refill the coffee pot, empty the shred bin, and don’t steal lunches out of the fridge- not even coffee creamer.  

Office consideration is an underplayed asset in the arsenal we carry around.  Most focus on completing their work; kissing up to their boss; and getting home. So many folks forget the basics: manners!  Getting ahead at work has to do with the whole package.  Your employees respect you not just for the quality of work you produce, but based on the type of person you are.  If the word gets out that you use the fridge as your personal vending machine, it makes it difficult to be respected as a janitor, a receptionist, or a manager.   

The point is that having office consideration is a vital quality to bring to the work arena.  I know that it’s easy to let others pick up the slack, especially if you feel like you pull more than your fair share at home and work makes a nice reprieve.  However, your fellow employees will appreciate it, and more importantly, will notice it and add to the list of positive attributes you already have going for you.

At the very least, it's being a good human being, and that's good karma.

This is a guest post by Lauren Kleinman.