ICAEW.com works better with JavaScript enabled.
Exclusive

Put your work ethic to the test

Author:

Published: 28 Apr 2022

Exclusive content
Access to our exclusive resources is for specific groups of subscribers.
Are you professional, dependable, responsible and respectful? Take our quick quiz to see whether your work ethic is too strong, too weak or just right.

Q1

It’s a busy time of year at work and you’re starting to feel overwhelmed. What do you do?

A: Just get on with it – you’ll have to put in even more hours.

B: Complain to your boss – you don’t see why you should have to do so much.

C: Ask for support and identify some tasks you may be able to delegate.

Q2

When it comes to meeting deadlines, are you:

A: Always on time – you’ll do whatever it takes to deliver.

B: Often a bit late – but so is everyone else, so it’s no big deal.

C: Usually on time – occasionally you may ask for an extension, but only because you want to do the job properly.

Q3

You’ve realised there’s a gap in your skills. What do you do?

A: Work it out for yourself – there must be some way to learn what you’re missing.

B: Keep your head down and muddle through. Hopefully no one will notice.

C: Ask for support or training – you want to improve your performance wherever possible.

Q4

Your boss has asked you to stay late at the last minute to help finish a project, but it’s a friend’s birthday and you’re supposed to be going out. Do you:

A: Agree and cancel – this is more important.

B: Say no – you’ve already put in more than enough hours this week.

C: Explain that you have plans, but offer to come in early tomorrow.

Q5

How often do you take a lunch break?

A: Never – it’s important that other people see how hard you’re working.

B: Always – you’re only paid for a certain number of hours a day after all.

C: Whenever possible – you know you’re more productive when you’ve had a break.

Q6

A deadline is fast approaching for an important report – and it’s the first time you’ve been asked to write it. How do you handle it?

A: Go over it again and again until you’re sure it’s perfect. You can’t afford to slip up.

B: Just get it done. You know it’s not brilliant, but it will have to do.

C: Make sure you’re happy with it – but you’ll ask for some constructive feedback too.

 

How did you do?

Mostly As: There’s such a thing as too much work ethic – you shouldn’t have to sacrifice your work/life balance to be successful. Learning to let go a little could actually improve your efficiency.

Mostly Bs: Oh dear, your laidback attitude could be seen as a lack of ambition and professionalism. Practise showing more focus, commitment and pride in your work.

Mostly Cs: Well done – you’re striking the right balance of responsibility and professionalism, and are no doubt a valued, respected and reliable worker.