Office Cube Etiquette

Cubicle workers should be careful to keep their voices as low as possible when on the phone, so as not to disturb individuals in the next cubicle. It is also considered unprofessional to take a number of personal calls (unless there is an emergency), as this can be a distraction for other coworkers. Hovering over an employee while she is on the phone is rude and invasive. If a colleague needs to ask a question or submit a document to a cubicle worker who is presently taking a call, it is best to wait until the phone conversation has ended. Personal cell phones should either be turned off or adjusted to vibrate mode, so that the ring will not bother coworkers.

Some employees like to listen to music while doing work in their cubicles. In some offices, it is permissible to keep the music at a low volume, so that the music will add pleasant background noise to the office environment. However, some employees prefer to work in silence. If this is the case, workers who enjoy music in the workplace should bring headphones to the office so that their music can be enjoyed while others enjoy peace and quiet.

Working in a cubicle means that employees are very close to one another physically. So it is considered impolite to eat food at work that has a very strong or potentially offensive odor (i.e. onions, vinegar, or curry). Employees should also be sure not to wear perfume or cologne that is very strong, since some coworkers may be sensitive to fragrances. It is always best to practice good hygiene (i.e. showering each day before coming to work and wearing deodorant), as a sign of respect for everyone in the office.

It is very important for cubicle employees to keep their cubicles clean and presentable as a courtesy to their cubicle neighbors. Trash should always be put in the cubicle trash can right away, and should be emptied regularly. Papers should be neatly organized, and it's best to keep the cubicle free of excessive posters and documents that are posted on the cubicle walls. For instance a calendar (that does not contain inappropriate images) and a document or two that details company policy are acceptable.

When a coworker needs to visit another employee's cubicle, it is appropriate to knock on the cubicle wall before entering. The cubicle should be treated like an office space, so barging in is impolite. If a colleague needs to borrow an item in another worker's cubicle, but the worker is not at the cubicle, he should leave a note stating what was borrowed, and return the item as soon as possible.