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Keeping It Real in the Workplace

In this unit, you have explored where imagination in engineering can take you. While the sky is the limit when it comes to invention, those in engineering also need to be grounded in the expectations of this world, and this includes the workplace. Even if you have reached the end of this course and have decided that engineering is not for you, any career you have will require you to meet professional expectations, so let’s spend a little time determining what those are.

Imagine that you have been tasked with creating workplace guidelines for an engineering firm. You should do some online research to determine what kind of professional standards are common. Although engineering does have its own requirements, such as the very specific way work is documented, when it comes to professional conduct, engineers basically have to meet the same expectations as everybody else. Therefore, most information about professional conduct or performance will apply.

Create a handout for new employees that does the following:

Identifies employer’s expectations for workplace conduct
Defines appropriate work habits
Defines and prohibits harassment
Explains and bans discrimination
Promotes equality in the workplace
You can use bullet points to address these standards. Because this is a handout, it should be no more than a page. Being leaders in society, as engineers are, also requires leading by example in the office. Appropriate workplace conduct makes the office comfortable for everyone, and that is the environment that breeds innovation.

You should also review at least three websites to get your information. Include a list of the websites used at the bottom of your guidelines.

1 answer

Workplace Guidelines for New Employees

Welcome to [Company Name]!
As a valued member of our engineering team, we expect you to uphold professional standards that foster a respectful and productive workplace. Below are essential workplace guidelines designed to support a positive work environment.

Employer’s Expectations for Workplace Conduct

  • Punctuality: Arrive on time and adhere to your scheduled hours.
  • Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.
  • Teamwork: Collaborate effectively with team members, valuing diverse perspectives and contributions.
  • Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and disclose any issues promptly.
  • Communication: Communicate transparently and respectfully, both verbally and through written documentation.

Appropriate Work Habits

  • Time Management: Prioritize tasks and meet deadlines, ensuring productivity in your role.
  • Quality of Work: Strive for excellence in your assignments and pay attention to detail.
  • Continuous Improvement: Seek feedback and identify areas for personal and professional growth.
  • Dress Code: Follow the company’s dress code to maintain a professional appearance.

Harassment Definition and Prohibition

  • Harassment: Any unwelcome behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This includes, but is not limited to, verbal comments, physical threats, or inappropriate jokes.
  • Prohibition: All forms of harassment are strictly prohibited. Report incidents to your supervisor or HR immediately.

Discrimination Definition and Ban

  • Discrimination: Treating individuals unfairly based on personal characteristics (e.g., race, gender, age, disability, religion).
  • Ban: Discrimination in any form is strictly forbidden. Our workforce thrives on diversity, and every employee deserves equal treatment.

Promoting Equality in the Workplace

  • Inclusiveness: Foster an inclusive culture where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
  • Equal Opportunity: Ensure that employment decisions are based on qualifications and merit without bias.
  • Respect Differences: Encourage appreciation for diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Remember, conducting yourself professionally not only enhances your personal reputation but also contributes to the growth and success of our engineering team. Let’s work together to create a positive and innovative work environment!

Resources

  1. U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) - www.eeoc.gov
  2. Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM) - www.shrm.org
  3. Engineering Career Services - www.engineering.purdue.edu

Feel free to reach out to HR for any questions, concerns, or clarification regarding workplace policies. Welcome aboard!