SG Work Fails: When Things Go Wrong (and How to Cope)

Ever felt like you’re the only one making epic mistakes at work? Relax lah, you’re not alone! Singaporeans from all walks of life have shared their workplace blunders on Reddit, and some of them are truly ‘can-die-one’! Let’s dive into the chaos, learn from it, and maybe even laugh a little.

Latest Trends in SG Work Fails

• Singaporeans are sharing a wide range of workplace mistakes, from minor oops to major catastrophes. It’s comforting to know we’re all human and prone to errors.
• Many mistakes happen due to simple carelessness, like sending emails to the wrong recipients. Think CC instead of BCC – a classic!
• Some mistakes are hilarious in hindsight, like the waiter who poured water on a baby’s head after kicking the baby’s chair.
  

  I accidentally kicked a baby chair with a baby in it causing it to spin almost 270deg out… But i did not realise the jug of water in my hand bowed with me too. And poured the water onto the baby’s head.

• Even serious errors, like clearing the wrong passport at ICA, can happen.
  

  Was an ICA officer. Cleared wrong passport. Negligence on my part. Was forced to resign.

• It seems like even civil servants aren’t immune to making mistakes. From sending emails to the wrong people, to messing up excel sheets.

Key Challenges Facing Singaporean Workers

1. Pressure and Fast Pace: Many mistakes are made under pressure to meet deadlines or when multitasking. It’s like trying to juggle too many things at once.
2. System Errors: Some errors are caused by confusing or poorly designed systems, like ordering systems or payroll software. It’s like navigating a maze with no map.
3. Lack of Training: Fresh grads or new employees often make mistakes due to lack of experience or proper training.
   

   Can’t exactly say it’s your mistake if you didn’t have a mentor of sorts to guide you on your first day yo

4. Communication Fails: Miscommunication or unclear instructions can lead to costly errors.
   

   I meant to send to a colleague I was chatting with but sent it to the senior

5. Fear of Reprimand: Some employees are afraid to admit their mistakes, which can make things worse. This fear can prevent open communication and learning.

Practical Tips for Handling Workplace Errors

• Own Up to Your Mistakes: Don’t try to hide or cover up your errors. It’s better to be honest and upfront.
  

  I owned it and apologised cuz it started with me.

• Learn from the Experience: Treat each mistake as a learning opportunity. Ask yourself what went wrong and how you can avoid it next time.
• Double-Check Your Work: Always double-check your work before submitting it, especially important tasks. It’s like doing your homework twice to make sure it’s perfect.
• Use the Right Tools: Make sure you’re using the correct software, tools, and procedures for your job. It’s like having the right equipment for a task.
• Don’t Be Too Hard on Yourself: Everyone makes mistakes. It’s important to learn and move on instead of dwelling on the past.
  

  Mistakes are devastating but management has to learn that if the lesson has been paid, it makes minimum sense to fire/punish people for it. Good bosses turn the situation around as a case study and encourage due diligence.

Source: What’s the worst mistake you’ve made at work?