Are you a Good Apple?

One bad apple can spoil the bunch, as bad apple behavior affects other negatively. Take the 6-question quiz and see what kind of apple you are!

I do a lot of the talking at our meetings. Isn't that what we're there for?

Some people will not talk in a group that is dominated by a few. Consider asking questions to elicit more information and other perspectives. Do not fill every silence—others may be waiting for an opportunity to speak! Try giving yourself a time limit for your contributions in a meeting and stick to it, resist the temptation to reiterate

Are you satisfied that you are expressing your views and contributing to the group? Or do you feel silenced or disengaged in meetings? If the latter, consider ways to make yourself heard—speak to the convener in advance or suggest taking turns speaking

I call people out when they ask dumb questions.

Even when you do not see the value of a question, respond respectfully. A belittling response silences the questioner as well as the bystanders. Chances are others will want to know the answer.

You recognize that dumb questions can add value to the discussion.

I pride myself on multi-tasking and conduct other business in meetings. I conceal my phone so others don't see what I am doing.

Even if you are trying to conceal your actions, you are not fooling anyone. Meetings are more efficient when everyone pays attention. You are sending the message that what is happening in the live meeting is not important or worthy of your time and attention.

By engaging and participating, you respect everyone and their time as well as the business of the meeting.

I like asking questions about others' personal lives.

The line between what is considered an appropriate and an inappropriate personal question depends on many factors -- it is often easy to misjudge how well you know someone. Avoid potentially uncomfortable situations by waiting until the person voluntarily discloses information to you.

You recognize that knowing more about your colleagues can create a more supportive work environment and it is wise avoiding probing personal questions. You can find a balance and maintain healthy boundaries. You can be more supportive by also listening attentively to the concerns of your colleagues—sometimes, listening is enough.

Humor contributes to a fun atmosphere.

While humor can be helpful in creating a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, off-color jokes or making fun of others can create a corrosive environment. Funny for one person may be interpreted as mean-spirited or harassment by another.

You recognize that while humor may contribute to a fun and enjoyable environment, you avoid off-color or demeaning jokes.

I think it's important for incoming students and staff to figure out on their own how things work around here—I'll let them know when they make mistakes.

Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming. Setting clear expectations early on is easier and more productive than damage control later. Performance feedback needs to be constructive. Focusing only on the negative is not effective.

You recognize that communicating clear expectations and providing constructive feedback foster strong working relationships and conserve scarce resources.