Work Ethic & Professionalism for Administrative Staff

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Answer all 8 questions. You need 6 correct to pass.

1. 1. Maria arrives 5–10 minutes late almost every morning. She figures it's fine because she stays late to make up for it. What is the problem with this approach?

   There is no problem — she is making up the timeConsistent lateness signals unreliability and disrespects colleagues who depend on her being there at the start of the dayShe should stay even later to make up for itShe only needs to be on time for meetings

2. 2. James makes an error in a report that goes to a client. His first instinct is to stay quiet and hope no one notices. What should he do instead?

   Wait and see — it might not matterBlame the softwareAcknowledge the mistake immediately, correct it, and communicate clearly with his supervisorDelete the original and resubmit without saying anything

3. 3. During a slow afternoon, Sofia spends an hour scrolling social media at her desk. She is technically 'available' if needed. Why is this a work ethic problem?

   It isn't — as long as the work is doneIt wastes paid time, sets a poor example, and builds a habit of disengagement that affects overall performanceOnly if her manager sees herIt is only a problem if she uses her work phone

4. 4. Which of the following best describes professional communication in an office setting?

   Replying to emails only when you feel like itUsing slang and casual language with everyone to seem approachableResponding promptly, using a respectful tone, and keeping messages clear and conciseCopying every email to your manager to cover yourself

5. 5. A colleague vents to David about how unfair the new office policy is. David agrees privately but is at his desk where others can hear. What is the professional response?

   Join in loudly — everyone feels the same wayListen briefly, keep his own tone neutral, and suggest raising concerns through the appropriate channel (e.g. a supervisor or HR)Ignore his colleague completelySend a group email to complain

6. 6. Which habit best demonstrates strong time management as an administrative professional?

   Doing tasks as they pop into your head with no particular orderWaiting until deadlines are urgent to start workingPrioritizing tasks by importance and deadline, and communicating proactively when workload is too highAsking a colleague to handle tasks you find boring

7. 7. Lisa wears casual ripped jeans and a hoodie to the office on a day she knows an external client is visiting. Why does this matter?

   It doesn't — clients should accept people as they areOnly her manager's opinion matters, not the client'sAppearance is part of the first impression you make on behalf of the organization; it signals respect for the client and the roleIt only matters if there is a written dress code

8. 8. What is the most accurate definition of work ethic in an office context?

   Working as many hours as possible regardless of outputA set of values — including reliability, accountability, initiative, and quality — that guide how you approach your responsibilities every dayDoing exactly what you are told and nothing moreBeing liked by everyone in the office