But whether you are more comfortable with male or female colleagues, or whether you have decided that your friendship is so strong that it is a lifelong commitment, can you share anything and everything with them?
Can the word 'colleague' overlap its boundaries and merge with the word 'friend'?
We try to find out where to draw the line between being a professional colleague and a personal friend…
Is there a particular kind of office etiquette with regards to colleagues? We spoke to some of our readers about what they feel about what can be communicated and what should be kept secrets.
I Want Ma Money
Kolkata based Vijay Leon, who used to work in a bank, now pursuing an MBA, says, "Salaries should never be discussed, as a rule."
Why?
"Especially with someone at work, it is a BAD idea to discuss money matters," he says. "Remember, your salary is your business, not anyone else's. Imagine, if you are at an entry level and if you get a higher salary than someone who is in a senior position, it will cause so many problems if he comes to know about it."
Rule Number One
Make this a cardinal thumb rule. Never discuss salaries at work. If you feel you are being underpaid, make sure you bring this up with your immediate boss or team leader. Discussing how much you or your colleagues are getting, however close they are will only bring about discontent and awkwardness.
| Also Read: Get that Pay Hike |
If you are confused about how much you are being paid, do your basic research in the same industry.
Find out (from friends who work in the same industry) how much other companies are paying. Analyse your responsibilities and then discuss your salary with your boss.
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