How strict are employers normally?

Question

I just got my first office job ever and I don't know strict/loose the office environment is. For example can you go out for a quick sandwich whenever you want etc.? Or if you're feeling tired/bored can you go out for a quick walk. How does it work?Would employers sack you if you're taking too many breaks?

Answer 1

Every office is different. Within the same company there can be very different environments. My department is very laid back because we don't deal with the public but the finance and purchasing departments are stricter.

Just take a clue from the people in your particular area. You're new and probably still on probation. Walk the straight line until you get a good lay of the land. In a few months you'll know what will fly in your office and what won't.

You also will see that a shift if personnel can also change an office environment. What was once laid back can become strict.

Answer 2

This is the hardest part of working---the day to day acceptance of routine. Office jobs are just about the hardest, in the long run, too.
You have to orient your mental/emotional/physical schedule to the "office", and it's best to be present at your desk/post AT ALL TIMES. Even though you have the job, you are still competing every minute of your work-day, and building your image every minute as a worker.
A lot of this won't help, in the long run, but, it's still necessary.
Try to "switch off" completely during your lunch break---walk, go outside, anything. Watch what the others do, and "cover" yourself to conform to them.
If there is any sort of employee "kitchen", bring snacks, etc. and store them there, so you can have a small break from your desk, an excuse to get up, so you won't have to go far.
It's easy to lose your soul and mind to this routine---plan positive things that will compensate - paying off debts, saving money, some other goal. Save your excitement about life for what you will do on the weekend, or in a year, or a do-it-yourself project you can now buy the materials for.

Biggest problem of an office though, I think, is trying to get work done by NOT talking to all the other over-friendly workers who will literally talk and visit to anyone just so they don't have to spend time doing their jobs. This burns up a lot of your work time, and is a hassle.

Answer 3

Office spaces are as different as night and day. The situation you described above is my job... I can do all of that with out getting in trouble... however in the building next door to me, thoes people are on short leashes. I can take my phone and go for a walk so I can be reached, but the people next door have trouble getting out to grab a bite to eat... you will just need to see how your office is run. Good luck with the new job.

Answer 4

It is best to ask your supervisor....if you want to know immediately. Whenever a need arises, ask. This way, gradually, overtime, through asking and observing, you will be an expert at what's allowed, what's not, what's too long, what's risky, what's ok etc. Every company has a different culture. It is much better you ask, instead of just doing it without knowing about the rules.

Answer 5

Ask around. As a new employee, I'd just keep a close watch on what the others do. Once you meet some of your co-workers they will fill you in on the work place etiquette. Congratulations on your very first job. Welcome to the work force:)

Answer 6

Office environments are as different as you and I. Each one varies. You should ask a co-worker or just feel it out for a while till you figure it out.

Answer 7

wow they are all different like a radio office is very fun! but stressfull and long!
i would just play the safe card untill you notice what others doo! if all else fails ask your boss!

Answer 8

Watch and see what others do, and the reactions of your employer, and co-workers. Judge by these reactions, what you can, and cannot, do.