Good Manners at Work

Professionalism is essential to achieving career success. Knowing the right social graces can open doors and increase advancement potential – it pays to have good manners!

In the workplace, courtesy and respect are essential for fostering a collaborative environment. As an important reminder of effective etiquette among co-workers, here is an overview highlighting some key fundamentals to make sure everyone in your office can work together harmoniously!

• Respectful requests and expressions of gratitude are powerful tools for creating a constructive workplace. These simple courtesies not only strengthen relationships, but promote helpful collaboration among co-workers.
• Starting the day on a positive note, and ending it with gratitude are great ways to show respect for those around you. A few simple words like “Good morning” or “Bye” can make all the difference in how others perceive your interaction!
• You should not turn away from individuals in the elevator. Navigating the corporate world can be a tricky endeavour, with unique social nuances at every turn. One such situation is that of entering an elevator and being met with pointedly avoiding eye contact from co-workers you recognise but don’t typically work directly together – leaving one to question both their place within the company dynamic as well as whether politeness has truly gone out the window in this confined space.
• Demonstrate kindness to your co-workers by taking the time to offer a coffee or tea run. Show them you care while having an engaging conversation at the same time! Talk it over with your manager and together, you can decide if providing options like these is feasible for both sides – but no matter what, start showing that consideration today. Your peers will certainly step up when they have their chance in turn.
• The phrase “excuse me” should be used when you need to get someone’s attention, pass by them, or interrupt a conversation.
• Refrain from interruption. Respect is key to any conversation – if you feel like jumping in, take a moment and politely say “Pardon me” first. Even better yet, follow up with an apology after for maximum professionalism! Showing respect demonstrates good etiquette and allows the other person to finish their thought before being interrupted.
• Express a “sorry.” Apologizing for any wrongdoing is a sign of humility and demonstrates respect to the ones we care about. When something more heartfelt than mere words may be called for, consider expressing your regret with small tokens or even larger gifts – from chocolates to cars — as meaningful symbols of a sincere apology.
• When you pass through a doorway, always turn around and check if another person is following. Showing a small gesture of politeness can take us from mere civility to true civilisation. Whether it’s holding the door open for someone or being kind and HOLDING THE ELEVATOR, Pete would be proud when we remember our manners!
• When in the office, keep your phone at low volume or turn it off. Though it’s natural to make a mistake every now and then, some lifestyles require constant phone etiquette. Striving for professional conduct means avoiding disruptive ringing or other loud notifications in the workplace.
• Neglecting to give appropriate attention in meetings or conversations with others can be all too easy, especially when our phones are so readily available. Many of us have been guilty of taking a peek during such occasions, whether it’s now and then or the entire duration. Nevertheless, refraining from this habit is an important part of maintaining healthy communication practices. It would be wise to set the phone aside and give undivided attention to the individual before you.
• Refrain from complaining as it can create a negative environment, make you appear unpleasant, and potentially hurt someone’s feelings (for example, if you’re displeased with the food at a gathering, the individual responsible might hear about it).
• Refrain from giving unwarranted counsel. Today, many of us have become comfortable in giving unsolicited advice on how to live one’s life. However, taking a step back and respecting the personal boundaries of others can help preserve relationships as well as maintain mutual respect for everyone’s autonomy. Before offering your guidance or opinion it is important to wait until you are asked for it; if no such request has been made then perhaps silence is the best course of action after all.
• Do not express comments regarding someone’s looks or outfit. Constructive remarks about someone’s appearance show respect, whereas careless comments on weight or dress can be hurtful. Exert caution in your communication: an untactful comment could easily convey unintended consequences and take a conversation awry. The best approach is to express gratitude when appropriate – such as complimenting one’s smart outfit – while refraining from unsolicited comparisons that may seem innocuous but are not without consequence.
• When I entered my latest workplace interview, little did I know what awaited me: a surprise reminiscent of Mount Everest – constructed entirely out of toenail clippings! It was important for me to remember this example and do the right thing. After all, having respect means tidying up after ourselves – no one else should have to take on our messes. So next time you finish your morning cup o’ joe or trim those overgrown paws, please be sure that they make their way into the dishwasher!
• Refrain from taking care of personal hygiene matters at work; toenail clipping included (to whomever it may concern).
• Even if no one is present, it is still necessary to conduct oneself in a mannerly way. A professional reputation is key to achieving success – focus on how your behaviour impacts the environment and you’ll be rewarded with respect from peers.

“Updated 3/1/2023”