In the jungle of the workplace, you can smell the scent of warm toner mingled with fresh java as it hangs in the air. Small ficus trees sprout next to sunlit windows and as far as the eye can see is the beautifully organized motif of cubicles. Each one buzzing with the sound of delicate fingers on keyboards, domiciles to the diligent souls who are contributing to keep the jungle alive. There are predators afoot in this jungle, and if you aren’t careful, you won’t survive long.

When you think about it, the workplace and the people in it are very fascinating. It’s a group of individuals all working hard to ensure the survival of something larger than themselves, the company, which in turns aids their survival. It’s a wonderful symbiotic relationship, but it makes your wonder, how do they do it? How do they survive in the workplace?

I’ve spent many years as a Workologist, living in this jungle, and studying the strange behaviors of the creatures in it. I have learned how to survive, and I’m writing to you so that if you are ever in the jungle of the workplace, you’ll know exactly what to do to survive and prosper.

1. Timeliness

In this jungle, those who are late to work and come in when they want to tend to disappear rather quickly. It is better to be early in this place rather than late, so make sure you do so. Be sure not to take breaks or lunches that are too long, and if you have meetings or appointments, it’s always good to be there before they start. Your coworkers will respect you more and know that you care about your job and survival in it.

2. Dress & Hygiene

In the Serengeti the lions can smell your fear, and in the Workplace the boss can smell your BO. It’s extremely important to smell nice, or have no smell at all. Poor hygiene like bad breath and body odor is unprofessional and make you appear dirty…because you are. Bathe yourself often, brush your teeth, and throw on some cologne/perfume. Dress yourself to fit the guidelines of your job’s dress code. Typically you dress formal in a business environment, semi-casual in a factory environment or when doing physical labor, and wear a uniform if it requires it.

3. Be Respectful, Courteous, and Appreciative

When working with others, it’s best to follow the golden rule, do unto others as you would have them do unto you. If you treat your coworkers well, you’ll be treated well in return. Show your coworkers and supervisors respect, they deserve it just as you do. Remember to be courteous by saying things like please and thank you when you need someone’s help. When a coworker helps you, make sure they know it, and make sure to tell their supervisors they’re doing a great job. We all like to be treated like equals and appreciated for doing a great job.

4. Offer A Helping Hand

Sometimes in the jungle you will see a coworker lost or struggling. If you can help them, do so! In the jungle, those who take the initiative to help others have a better chance of succeeding than those who don’t. He who helps those in need, helps himself in return.

5. Go Above & Beyond

When you have free time at work, ask your coworkers if they need help, be proactive. When do work, do the best you can even if it’s not required. As an employee, when you do work without being asked to, like helping someone, that shows how dedicated to your job you really are, and your boss will really like that. They will know that you are an employee who cares and intends to stay for the long run.

6. Work Hard

This goes without saying. Those who wish to survive the workplace must work hard in order to survive. Don’t be lazy, this will create resentment in your coworkers. Work hard and be an inspiration for those around you. You don’t have to work yourself to the bone to work hard, you just need to be focused.

7. Ask Questions

There are no stupid questions. If you don’t know the answer to something, do be afraid to ask. Your coworkers and supervisors are there to help you and will be more than willing to help you out. Asking questions shows that you care enough to be curious about your work and more importantly, doing your work right.

8. Learn & Show Others

Work is a great learning experience, and the opportunity to learn something new is everywhere. Take the initiative and learn something new! This will make you much more valuable in the jungle, for knowledge is worth it’s weight in gold. Once you learn something, don’t be afraid to show others. Teaching is fun, and very satisfying, and your coworkers will appreciate you for it. Don’t be stingy with want you know, share it.

9. Be Outgoing & Confident

People love a person who is lovable. I know, seems ridiculous but it’s true! Be friendly to the people you share your time with. Smile and laugh often. Try to be as approachable a person as possible. Compliment your coworkers when you look nice, do something great, or impress you. Show them you notice and care. Soon your coworkers will be delighted to see you when you come around the corner carrying that stack of reports you need them to file.

10. Get To Know People

This has a lot to do with being outgoing and confident but it takes it a step further. Get to know your coworkers and share yourself with them without getting overly personal. Talk about things not directly related to work, tell appropriate jokes. If a coworker asks you to join them at lunch, do so. Don’t be afraid to make new friends! You never know who’ll you’ll end up meeting.

11. Be Open-minded

In the workplace, you are surrounded by knowledge and ideas. Keep an open-mind about new ideas, and new ways to do things. If a coworker or supervisor has an idea for you, be sure to listen and understand. They are only trying to help. In the end it may help you become a better worker by becoming more efficient.

12. Think Outside The Box…err Cubicle?

Those who think outside their box in the jungle tend to survive. These are the people who discovered fire, and made the first hammer or bowl. Try your hardest to think well, and think differently. If you have a great idea, share it with those who can benefit from it. To think outside the box you just need a good imagination and the understanding that things can always be done another way.

13. Take Charge

The strong are the ones that survive in most situations, and this is true even in the workplace, but the type of strength needed comes from the mind. When you are at work, take some initiative in the work you do. Don’t be afraid to be a leader when you can. People will follow those they admire, so be sure that you show off those great qualities you possess. People who take charge in the workplace are the ones that end up owning the workplace.

With these survival tips, you aren’t guaranteed to live, but you’ll have a very good chance of doing so. Live and work to the best of your ability, and the rewards will be sure to follow. Good luck!