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Workplace Etiquette Tips

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Companies cannot prevent workers from accessing the Internet on their smart phones.

Workers spend a large proportion of their time at their workplaces. In many cases, coworkers become friends. Even when colleagues do not develop personal relationships, it is still necessary to interact in a civil manner. Following workplace etiquette can reduce stress and conflict in the office and allow everyone to be more productive.

  1. General Office Civility

    • In a study reported by the Psychologically Healthy Workplace Program, or PHWP, 10 percent of workers reported witnessing daily incidents of incivility, while 20 percent reported that they were the objects of uncivil treatment on a weekly basis. Many workers, either thoughtlessly or deliberately, disregard the distinction between workplace and home, according to Judith Martin, also known as "Miss Manners." They discuss personal business over the phone in a loud tone of voice, they dress in an overly casual manner or they make sexually-charged remarks. If a colleague's behavior bothers you, try discussing the issue in private before utilizing formal grievance procedures. On a company-wide basis, establishing rules and boundaries and applying them equally goes a long way toward preventing improper behavior as well as providing remedies for employees who cross the line, Peter Post states.

    Office Party Etiquette

    • Office parties present potential landmines that can derail careers. Excessive alcohol consumption is a major cause of behavior gaffes. It's okay to have a drink, after all, it is a party, but don't overdo it. Women should avoid dressing provocatively, and both genders should avoid overly suggestive remarks and behavior. Use the occasion to form bonds with your colleagues and supervisors, but keep the conversation focused on safe subjects such as movies or hobbies. Introduce your spouse or partner to your boss and other colleagues, Peter Post suggests.

    Gift-Giving Etiquette

    • A "Secret Santa" exchange is one way of avoiding awkward situations during the holidays. Maintain a modest budget and avoid gifts of alcohol unless you are sure your office allows them. If your budget is tight, you may skip gift-giving altogether -- just let people know in advance. Workers should avoid purchasing individual gifts for their bosses, but a joint gift from several colleagues is fine, Peter Post says. Supervisors may give small gifts to their direct reports, but do not leave anyone out. If you have developed personal friendships with particular colleagues, exchange gifts outside the office.

    Internet Etiquette

    • More than half of all companies prohibit their employees from accessing social networking sites during working hours, Robert Half Technology states. However, it is impossible to prevent employees from using personal computers or smart phones to access social networking sites. A more realistic approach is to impose guidelines for proper employee conduct on social networking sites and enforce them company-wide.

      Individual employees should consider establishing separate business and personal social networking profiles. Offer the alternative of a business connection to would-be "friends," rather than turning them down altogether, CIO states. A few minutes to check email during the day is fine, but the bulk of social networking activity during business hours should be devoted to business-related issues.

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