Jobsworth meaning

A jobsworth is a pejorative term for a person who strictly adheres to rules or procedures even to the point of being unreasonable.


Jobsworth definitions

Word backwards htrowsboj
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division job-worth
Plural The plural of the word "jobsworth" is jobsworths.
Total letters 9
Vogais (1) o
Consonants (7) j,b,s,w,r,t,h

Jobsworth is a term used to describe someone who strictly adheres to rules and procedures, often without considering the bigger picture or exercising common sense. It is commonly used in British English to refer to individuals who prioritize following regulations over providing practical solutions.

Origins of Jobsworth

The term "jobsworth" originated from the expression "I can't do that, it's more than my job's worth." This phrase captures the essence of someone who uses their job description as an excuse to avoid flexibility or going above and beyond their duties.

Characteristics of a Jobsworth

A jobsworth is typically seen as inflexible, stubborn, and unwilling to deviate from established protocols. They often hide behind rules and regulations to justify their lack of initiative or problem-solving skills. This attitude can lead to frustration for both colleagues and customers who are looking for practical solutions.

Impact of Jobsworth Behavior

When a workplace is plagued by jobsworth behavior, it can hinder creativity, innovation, and efficiency. Employees may feel demotivated and constrained by unnecessary red tape, leading to a toxic work environment. Customers may also feel frustrated by the lack of customer-centric service and may take their business elsewhere.

Overcoming Jobsworth Mentality

To combat a jobsworth mentality in the workplace, it is essential to promote a culture of flexibility, open communication, and problem-solving. Encouraging employees to think beyond their job descriptions and prioritize the overall goals of the organization can help break down barriers and enhance collaboration.

In conclusion, while following rules and procedures is essential in any organization, being a jobsworth can be detrimental to productivity and morale. By fostering a culture of teamwork, adaptability, and creative thinking, organizations can overcome the negative impact of jobsworth behavior and thrive in a dynamic and competitive environment.


Jobsworth Examples

  1. The jobsworth at the DMV refused to renew my license because I was missing one form.
  2. The security guard acted like a jobsworth when he wouldn't let me enter the building without a visitor pass.
  3. The jobsworth teacher refused to let the student hand in the assignment one minute late.
  4. The jobsworth manager insisted on following every company policy to the letter, even when it didn't make sense.
  5. The jobsworth mechanic charged an outrageous fee for a simple repair job.
  6. The jobsworth waiter was rude to customers who asked for modifications to their orders.
  7. The jobsworth librarian refused to let anyone borrow books without a library card, even if they had ID.
  8. The jobsworth lifeguard blew the whistle on kids playing too close to the pool edge.
  9. The jobsworth referee made a questionable call that decided the outcome of the game.
  10. The jobsworth boss insisted on employees working overtime without pay to meet a deadline.


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  • Updated 31/03/2024 - 10:06:01