Making a mistake workers' biggest fear

Dealing with difficult customers, clients comes second: Survey

Nearly three in 10 (29 per cent) office workers said making a mistake on the job is their biggest workplace fear, according to an Accountemps survey of 277 Canadians.

"A fear of failure is natural and can be a good motivator in healthy doses, but workers can't let their concerns lessen their confidence," said Gena Griffin, Canadian district president of Accountemps. "In order to grow in their careers, professionals must be willing to tackle challenges head on and move beyond their comfort zones. Even smart risks that don't pan out can help individuals discover new ideas and better ways of doing things."

Greatest workplace fear

Making errors on the job

29%

Dealing with difficult customers, clients

17%

Speaking in front of a group of people

16%

Conflicts with co-workers

14%

Conflicts with manager

12%

Other/don’t know/no answer

12%

Navigating frightening workplace situations requires forethought and the right approach, according to Accountemps, which recommends workers prioritize their responsibilities and delegate when possible, ask for help from a manager, seek a mentor for advice, ask a confidant for feedback and build strong business relationships.

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