7 Office Etiquette Tips

Some say proper etiquette is a lost art. While we may not be embracing the over-the-top refinement of the days of yore today, there will always be a need for basic manners. And that holds true while at work. We’re calling the following list office etiquette tips, but the reality is, they’re useful no matter where it is you go to work. Because when you keep simple tips like these in mind, you make the workplace more enjoyable for everyone around you.

Don’t interrupt.
We get it. You have something really important to add to the conversation. But not only is it rude to cut people off when they’re in the middle of speaking, you’re also sending the message that what they’re saying is unimportant. (Or, in the least, less important than what you have to say.) Learn to hold your tongue and speak up when there’s an appropriate break in the conversation.

Be punctual.
Nobody likes to be kept waiting needlessly. It’s a waste of their time, plus — especially if you are notoriously tardy — it’s a signal that you feel other people’s time isn’t as precious as your own. (Are you seeing a pattern here? Nonverbal cues are important in the workplace.) If you are late, apologize right out the gate. But don’t let it become a habit. The last thing you want is for your colleagues to anticipate that you will inevitably be late for any meeting.

Silence that phone.
Speaking of meetings, a phone’s ringer loudly going off in the middle of a meeting is the professional equivalent to one going off in a crowded movie theater. So keep your phone on silent whenever you’re in a meeting. In fact, you may even consider leaving it that way — or at least on vibrate — for the duration of the workday … if you’re in an office, at least.

Share the credit.
Who doesn’t love the feeling of praise at the completion of a job well done? But amid basking in all that glory, don’t forget to share the wealth (if applicable) and give a shout-out to anyone that played a role in helping out.

Work with others.
In order to share the credit, you have to be willing to work well with others. Of course, sometimes one-off projects are easy enough to do solo. But more often than not, anyone can benefit from at least some input from their colleagues. You’re a team, so take advantage of each other’s strengths. In the end, it’s going to result in a strong performance overall.

If you’re sick … stay home.
We’ve discussed this at length before, but it always warrants a reminder. Nothing is more respectful than putting the health of your coworkers first. If you think the office will come to a screeching halt because you’re out (it won’t), imagine how bad it actually would be if you came in, spread your germs, and a handful of people had to stay home.

Welcome new employees.
You don’t have to be the welcome wagon and official tour guide, but the first day at a new job — regardless of how old you are — can be a little unnerving for people. Extend basic courtesies and help make them feel like less of an outcast as they transition into their new work environment.

Simple enough, right? Just keep these in mind and you’ll start to see a huge difference in your workplace.

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