Office Etiquette: 16 Tips to Transform your Company Culture

Proper office etiquette is critical in creating an environment where employees feel appreciated, respected, and confident in their abilities to do their jobs.

Respect for others around you begins with knowing what is expected of you in a professional setting.  

In this post, Dr. Job Pro discusses proper office etiquette and provides you with some tips.

What is office etiquette? 

The traditional rule of conduct is known as office etiquette in the workplace.  

Etiquette dictates what behavior is acceptable and what should be avoided. 

Read also, How to Make Your Workday Go by Faster?|Drjobpro.com

When coworkers treat each other with consideration, politeness, and kindness, they are more likely to become involved and productive. 

1- Respect Your Colleagues 

Learning to respect other people's religious and political preferences.  

You deserve respect from your coworkers, even if they don't always treat you that way. 

 If you don't like their ideas, you should show some degree of respect for their thoughts. 

As a result of sharing a workspace with people, you'll almost certainly find yourself in a conversation.  

In open workplace environments, it is more frequent to see it. As a courtesy, please refrain from interrupting one other when speaking.  

Encourage everyone to finish an idea and participate in the debate that follows. 

Because offices are typically busy environments, it's essential to respect your coworkers' timetables as well. 

 You should make sure the person you're talking to has the time or is interested in speaking before you begin. 

Do not spread false rumors about your coworkers or the company in the workplace.  

The work and personal lives of yourself and others should be kept separate. When you and your coworkers are on personal time, chat about something light and cheerful rather than gossiping about the office. 

2- Keep your greetings kind 

When you see employees or clients, say "hi," "good morning," or "good afternoon," smile, and make eye contact.  

Make eye contact and introduce yourself to the person you're meeting for the first time.  

As a personal touch, greet your coworkers by their first names. Making small talk with coworkers and customers may go a long way toward establishing a positive first impression. 

3- Make an effort to engage in discussion 

It would help if you talked to your coworkers and customers during your job.  

Begin talks with your coworkers about current events or corporate successes, and ask for their views and ideas.  

Things like the weather might be used to start a discussion with a stranger.  

Moreover, network with people that can help you grow your career or find a new customer to work with. 

4- Take a Second to Think Before You Speak 

The workplace is a challenging and stressful place. Each employee has a unique set of goals, values, and personality traits. 

 However, they work together toward a shared objective with distinct working methods, and therefore there will be disagreements. 

Measure your words, and you'll keep your coworkers happy and productive.  

Consider your words before you speak. Respect other people's viewpoints, avoid rude responses,, and avoid making debates personal. If you need to apologize, don't forget to do so. 

5- Be considerate of others' feelings 

Keep an eye out for your coworkers, especially if you're traveling around the workplace.  

Hold the door open if you see someone behind you as you walk through it.  

If someone is approaching the elevator, please hold the door open for them. 

 If you have to do anything for someone else to do their job, do it swiftly and appropriately.  

When communicating with people, use "please" and "thank you" when appropriate. Practicing mindfulness when working with others indicates your ability to work as a team and collaborate. 

6- Put your phone on silent mode 

When working in a group or with customers, phone notifications might distract.  

When you're at work, put your phone on silent mode to not bother anybody else.  

If you expect to get a phone call soon, you may want to put your phone on vibrate.  

In meetings, put your phone on silent. 

7- Give full attention 

During talks, give your full attention to the person you're talking to.  

Apologize if you talk over someone else, even if it was an accident.  

Please avoid using your phone during one-on-one talks by leaving it at your desk when you are in a meeting. 

 You express your interest in the speaker's thoughts by giving your complete attention to the debate. 

8- Maintain a sanitary work environment 

Everyone in the office has a responsibility to do their part to maintain the workplace tidy.  

Maintain a clean and orderly workplace by wiping off unclean surfaces, such as tables and countertops.  

When you finish using a standard tool or item, be careful to return it to its proper location.  

Having a tidy work environment may boost team morale and productivity. 

9- Learn to Work in a Team 

Using proper business etiquette is vital to fostering a team of employees that trust, love, and cherish one other. 

In a team brainstorming session, it's not a good idea to not give in to your work or take a phone call. 

There are consequences if a single team member fails to meet their responsibilities. And it might lead to resentment among employees and a decrease in productivity. 

10- Don't be late! 

Workplace etiquette requires that everyone adhere to a strict timetable.  

You may show people you care about their time and priorities by coming on time for meetings, finishing things ahead of schedule, and getting to work a few minutes early.  

11- Eat in the break room or outside of the office 

If possible, have your lunch at a break room or cafeteria.  

Your coworkers may be distracted by the smell of your food if you eat at your desk.  

Taking your lunch break away from the office is an excellent idea if you have the option.  

Eating your lunch at a different location might help you refocus when you return to work, as well as minimize distractions for your team members. 

12- If you're taking personal calls, make sure the door is closed 

To avoid wasting time on personal conversations when you don't have a door or are in an open floor plan, say you'll call the person again when you have a chance or go to a place that is more suited to personal calls like a lounge area or even outside. 

13- Consider the dress code 

In the job, formal clothes are usually the best option. 

You should always wear basic and comfy attire, even if you're in a casual setting. Coworkers may be distracted by jingling jewelry or a strong scent.  

For additional information regarding your company's dress code, consult your employee handbook or contact a human resources representative. 

If you're going to meet with a customer, make sure you've dressed appropriately for the occasion.  

Also, if you choose, you might dress following the company's dress code. It's best to wear business attire if your customer works for a financial institution. 

14- Meet in authorized areas 

If you're discussing with more than one person, reserve a conference room or utilize a private office. 

 Having meetings at your office might be disruptive to your coworkers. When holding a meeting, close the door to keep the noise level down.  

For conferences and one-on-one workplace chats, keep your voice down so your coworkers can concentrate. 

15- Maintain proper etiquette in the virtual workplace 

A virtual meeting has become a regular part of our workday.  

Before beginning your day, spend a few minutes getting ready, including brushing your hair. Being effective while working from a distance begins with taking this initial step in the right direction. 

In virtual team meetings, speak up if you are asked. While you shouldn't be completely silent, you should also avoid speaking during conversations with others. 

If you're utilizing a camera, pay attention to your posture. Sit up straight, don't make strange motions, and don't allow your eyes to wander too far. 

Put your microphone on mute while you're not speaking to help keep the room quieter. 

Consider taking a light snack before or after a virtual meeting to keep you alert and energized. 

16- Consider how your body language conveys your thoughts  

The way you move your body during a discussion might convey multiple meanings.  

Good nonverbal communication is essential to share the same meaning as your words. 

To demonstrate that you're paying attention, make eye contact and nod when appropriate when conversing with people. 

 You can indicate your interest in the subject by smiling. Keep your arms outstretched or place your hands on the hips to show confidence to maintain a neutral posture.  

Keep your back straight and shoulders back, whether sitting or standing to demonstrate that you're awake. 

In conclusion,

by following the previous office etiquette tips, you'll keep your workplace environment happy, safe, and comfortable. Best of luck!