Staying relevant in the workplace is more than just mastering your job description. Small habits, subtle behaviors, and outdated ways of thinking can make you look out of touch at work—even if you’re doing your work well. Perception matters. Colleagues and managers notice when someone seems disconnected from what’s current. This can affect your chances for promotions, new projects, or even job security. Here are ten little things that can signal you’re out of touch at work, and what you can do to fix them.
1. Using Outdated Technology
If you’re still relying on fax machines, old browsers, or refuse to use collaborative tools like Slack or Teams, people notice. In today’s fast-paced work environments, being comfortable with current technology is expected. Not only does it slow down productivity, but it also signals you might not be keeping up with industry trends.
2. Ignoring Remote Work Norms
Whether it’s refusing to turn on your camera during video calls or not responding in a timely manner to messages, ignoring remote work etiquette can make you seem out of touch at work. These norms have become standard. Embracing them shows flexibility and respect for your colleagues’ time and efforts.
3. Dressing for the Wrong Era
Clothing trends at work have shifted. If you’re still wearing suits in a casual office or dressing too casually in a formal setting, it stands out. Dressing appropriately for your workplace shows you understand and respect your company’s culture. Take cues from your peers and adjust as needed.
4. Using Jargon No One Understands
Dropping industry buzzwords from a decade ago or using overly technical jargon can alienate colleagues, especially newer team members. Communication is clearer and more effective when you speak plainly and adapt your language to your audience. Being aware of how people talk about work now helps you stay relevant.
5. Not Participating in Team Chats
Many teams rely on group chats or collaboration platforms for quick communication. If you consistently avoid these, you risk missing out on important information and appearing disengaged. It’s a small thing, but joining in—even occasionally—shows you’re part of the team and not out of touch at work.
6. Never Updating Your Skills
The pace of change in most industries means continuous learning is essential. If you haven’t taken a course or learned a new skill in years, it’s a red flag. Employers value employees who invest in themselves. Even free online courses or webinars can help you stay up to date.
7. Dismissing New Ideas
Being the person who always says, “We’ve always done it this way,” can make you seem resistant to change. Workplaces evolve, and so should your mindset. Openly considering new ideas or approaches—even if they don’t always work—shows you’re adaptable and not out of touch at work.
8. Not Knowing Your Company’s Current Goals
If you’re unsure what your organization’s main objectives are this quarter or year, it’s time to catch up. Being aligned with your company’s mission and goals helps you contribute more effectively and shows you’re invested in the bigger picture. Read company updates, ask questions, and stay informed.
9. Avoiding Social Events—Even Virtual Ones
Regularly skipping team lunches, after-work gatherings, or virtual happy hours can make you seem distant. While you don’t have to attend everything, joining occasionally helps build relationships and keeps you in the loop. Being present, even in social settings, ensures you’re not seen as out of touch at work.
10. Failing to Recognize Generational Differences
Workplaces now span multiple generations. If you dismiss younger colleagues’ ideas or fail to respect older workers’ experience, you risk looking out of touch at work. Embrace a learning mindset. Ask questions, listen actively, and be open to different perspectives. This helps build stronger, more inclusive teams.
Staying in Step with Your Workplace
It’s easy to fall into habits that make you look out of touch at work, especially as routines set in. The good news? Small changes go a long way. Take time to learn new tools, ask for feedback, and pay attention to shifts in workplace culture. Even reading professional blogs or following industry leaders on LinkedIn can help you stay current.
Your reputation at work is shaped by more than just your output. It’s about how you show up, communicate, and connect. By being proactive and open-minded, you can avoid the pitfalls of looking out of touch at work and position yourself as a valuable, engaged team member.
What’s one small change you’ve made to avoid looking out of touch at work? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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