The Five Most Annoying Things About Being “Iowa Nice“

Iowa nice goes too far when you constantly compliment others on their appearance and wardrobe. It's fine to notice a co-worker's new hairstyle and say something nice about a new outfit, but too many compliments sound like you're always sucking up. Cut it out. It makes us uncomfortable.

Did you take the last donut? It's OK, really. Did you forget to refill the paper in the office copier? Forget it. Your constant apology for everything you do comes across as low self-esteem. And the things that you're apologizing for...not really that big of a deal.

Iowa nice goes too far when you remain silent especially when you disagree with your co-workers. Whether it's a complex work project that could really use your honest opinion and expertise or a suggestion on simply where to go for your lunch, your silence is deafening. Speak up!

Your Iowa Nice is particularly annoying when every time you DO speak up, it's "awesome!" or "sensational" You don't just "like" every Facebook post, you LOVE them...every time and every subject. It drives many of your co-workers a little crazy...but like you, they're too  Iowa nice to say anything about it! CUT it OUT.

You want to be a "team player." You don't want to be branded as "difficult". But your Iowa nice goes too far when you always defer to others' preferences. You need to speak up once in a while, not just to disagree, but to add your voice and vote to the process of how things are run. Your point of view is more important than you give yourself credit for, so let's hear it!