Etiquette at the Office

Etiquette at the Office

Work etiquette refers to the code that needs to be followed at the workplace. It’s not always explicit but implied when you join an organization. In an office environment, you are in constant contact with numerous individuals so a little consideration would go a long way in making the workplace a more positive environment.

Phone Etiquette

Every employee is allotted a telephone at work and it’s important to use it properly. Do not talk loudly as it distracts other employees. A pleasant tone helps get the point across better than a loud voice. Stick to the point and do not engage the line for long periods. Speak clearly and use proper language. Only use the phone for official calls unless there is an emergency. If you have a cell phone, keep the ringer on silent especially during meetings.

  • Telephone Etiquette: Provides tips on answering and making calls.
  • Helpful Tips: A good discourse on rules of etiquette, answering the telephone, placing callers on hold, and more.
  • Phone Etiquette: Learn about how to create a good impression, putting callers on hold, taking phone messages, and so on.
  • Etiquette Tips: Offers a lot of tips on developing great telephone etiquette.
  • Phone Etiquette Tips: Covers proper etiquette for incoming calls, courtesy hints, outgoing calls, messages, and more.

Internet Etiquette (Netiquette)

While sending emails at the workplace, it’s essential to write complete words and not abbreviations as is used in instant messaging. Though it’s necessary to stick to the point and not send long emails, the mail should not be too rude or abrupt. It’s difficult to judge the tone of an email so it’s best to read your email before sending it out. Make sure you run a spelling and grammar check before sending out important mails. Ensure that punctuations are in place. Use please and thank you wherever required and address a person with the appropriate title viz. Mr., Ms., etc.

  • Netiquette: Provides information and tips on developing good netiquette.
  • Office Etiquette: Touches on email etiquette and phone etiquette.
  • 12 Tips: Offers good tips on proper email etiquette in the office.
  • Etiquette Quiz: Take this quiz to find out how much you know about office netiquette.
  • Communicating Online: Provides tips on how to communicate properly on the Internet.

Conflict Resolution

Sometimes, tempers may flare in the office. Conflict resolution should be a part of the induction program for any employee. All employees should have a clear understanding of the organization, the culture, and behavior of individuals. Employees should be equipped to adapt to the environment and accommodate other views. If a conflict arises, they should identify it and take the necessary steps to resolve or prevent it. Each individual should take the responsibility to act in a professional manner.

  • Conduct in Workplace: Covers a range of issues related to conduct in the office, including conflict resolution.
  • Conflict Resolution: An excellent guide to help workers deal with conflicts in the workplace.
  • Conflict: Discusses the ways to resolve conflicts in the workplace.
  • Anger: Shows how to control anger, which can be useful in conflict resolution in the office.
  • Workplace Conflict: Provides tips on how to deal with conflict in the workplace.

Gossip

Gossip is all pervading and even the formal office environment cannot escape from it. A gossip can be an incident which is blown out of proportion or talking behind the back of an individual, either of which is not good. Gossiping can destroy a person’s career. It’s not enough that you don’t start a gossip but it’s important not to partake in any gossip. When you come across gossiping, don’t encourage others to spread the rumors. Walk away when someone is gossiping. If the issue is serious, get involved and sort it out. Avoid gossiping and contact the person directly if you have any issues.

Bosses and Workers

Address the boss with respect unless he/she tells you to use the first name. Try not to approach the boss for minor problems. Treat colleagues with respect and appreciate their contributions. Be cooperative and try to help others. Respect their privacy and do not intrude on them when they are busy at work.

Staying Organized

Organize your tasks in order of importance. Mark the deadlines so you know when to complete them on time while putting in your best efforts. Keep your work station clutter free. If it’s messy, it provides a bad impression to your boss and colleagues. A better organized calendar and desk improves your efficiency.

  • Organized at Work: Provides tips to help you stay organized at work.
  • Safe, Clean & Organized: A guide on how you can keep the workplace clean and organized.
  • Time Management: Offers three tools for efficient time management.
  • Quiz: Try this quiz to see how well you manage your time.
  • Stress: Find out about things that can cause stress in the workplace.

Language

Be polite to colleagues and people around at all times. Refrain from using bad words or inappropriate language. The right language and manner of communication can help to get work done faster without creating any issues. Don’t speak casually with the superiors unless they initiate it. Speaking with food in the mouth is also not acceptable.

Grooming

To make a good impression in the office, grooming is very important. Unless your office atmosphere is different, in most work environments, and especially in corporate ones, men should be clean shaven with nicely cut hair. Women should have neat and styled hair with simple jewelery and make up. Formal, well pressed clothes with formal shoes must be part of the work attire. T shirts, flip flops, jeans, sneakers are good for casual wear but not to work. Avoid bright colored clothes. Ensure that your hands and nails are also well groomed.

Office Dating

Dating a colleague is always complicated so it’s best avoided. Since a lot of time is spent at work, sometimes, it’s inevitable that romance blooms. It’s best to be familiar with the company policy regarding dating to ensure that you are not breaking any rules. Companies in general do not encourage dating within the organization as it reduces productivity and makes the environment uncomfortable in case of a break-up. Also use discretion while dating as it can create a lot of gossip in the organization.

Etiquette during Meetings

One should always be punctual for a meeting. Going late could disrupt the flow of the meeting. Do not interrupt the speaker or converse with colleagues during the meeting. Be prepared with notes, notepad, pen, presentation items, and so on. If you are speaking at the meeting, prepare for the presentation with handouts and required materials. During the meeting, switch off the mobile and avoid attending calls or replying to texts.

Group Projects

In a group, pay equal attention to all members. Appreciate each individual’s contribution. Take time to listen to ideas and suggestions before providing your feedback. Do not interrupt or put down another individual. Each employee should contribute equally and each contribution is important. A basic level of politeness should be maintained.

  • Working in Groups: Provides information and tips on various issues related to working in groups.
  • Tips: Offers tips to help people form better groups.
  • Groups that Work: Lays the foundation for a successful group.
  • Guidelines: A goof guide to help you form a great group.

Foreign Business Etiquette

In some vocations, employees are required to travel to different countries as part of the job. The employee represents the organization to the outside world so he or she should keep this in mind while meeting with clients. Each country has its own etiquette and a little research in advance could avoid awkward moments. A small cultural mistake could result in losing a business deal so it’s vital to be acquainted with basic foreign business etiquette.

Office Events

As the holiday season approaches, some companies may organize an annual party. It’s a good time for employees to get to know each other better and have a good time together. In such parties, you can have fun but be careful not go over the top because it’s inappropriate. Limit your alcohol intake to one or two drinks as it can affect your judgment. Dress appropriately and don’t cross the limits with colleagues. Since it’s an informal affair, you can tell some jokes and stories but try not to offend another person.