Being a new employee in an organization can be exciting as well as nerve-wracking. Every organization has their own culture and ways of operating. As a new employee, it can be difficult to assimilate right away. However, if you practice proper office etiquette you will surely adapt quickly. Office etiquette is about how any employee should conduct themselves within the office. Today’s segment we will talk about the Do’s and Don’ts of office etiquette…
Whether this is your first job or your next job always mind your manners. Working in an office comes with different people and different behaviors. As an individual you must always practice positive office etiquette. Let’s look at the do’s:
- Always be respectful and courteous to those around you. Say ‘Good morning’ when you get in, restock the paper in the copier if you see it’s run out, ask people how their day is going. Be a part of the team and try to be as considerate as possible.
- Always offer to help. If you have time to do so and you are able to help offer your assistance. If you want to eventually become an integral part of the team you should help your colleagues.
- Always do your work. It is okay to chat with your coworkers, during breaks or on lunch. But remember you are being paid to work. Make sure you come in with the attitude to accomplish a good amount of work in the day.
Here are the don’ts:
- Don’t participate in office gossip. As interesting as gossip can be, it has no place in the office. Talking about a team member or a manager in a negative or derogatory way is inappropriate. This type of behavior brings morale down and productivity.
- Try to always mind your gestures. Slouching, or yawning during a meeting can be seen as unprofessional and careless. Your colleagues and managers will not take too kindly to rude gestures.
- Don’t ever assume. When you are unsure of something, don’t assume the answer. Talk to your colleagues, your manager or even your customers. At the end, you want to yield a positive result. Assumptions put you at risk of looking unprofessional and can potentially have a negative impact on your work.
Office etiquette seems like common sense. But when we start a new role we can forget the little things. Reflect on what kind of employee you want to be and act accordingly.
