Workplace Etiquette

Many people believe that workplace etiquette is simply to follow and everyone knows the rules. This is not the case there are thousands of people each day being rude or inconsiderate and they don't even realize.Workplace etiquette is very similar to ever day regular etiquette it is all about respecting others around you and not making them feel uncomfortable. Here are a few easy to remember etiquette rules for the workplace.

E-Mail Workplace Etiquette

There are a lot of people in the world that use e-mail in the workplace every day. Most of those people do not know the proper etiquette for sending e-mails to co-workers or bosses.

Do not send e-mails with political or religious views. Even if you feel a certain way that does not mean others will. Some people might even be offended by them so it is best to leave your thoughts on subjects like these at home.
Never send a message bad mouthing a co-worker to any one you work with this can only turn out badly. Either the other person will find out about it or the person you sent it to will wonder if you say these things about them to others and find it hard to trust you any longer.
Use proper spelling and punctuation. You are a grown up so don't type like a teenager.
Many places will reprimand or even fire an employee for misuse of e-mails. Only send work relevant letters and only send them to other employees. This means no writing your friends to see what tonight's plans are going to be.

Proper Workplace Etiquette

If you are in a small office where other employees are close by do not speak loudly while on the phone. Also don't make personal calls unless they are absolutely necessary. No body wants to hear about your cold or your party plans so keep quite.

Popping gum is really annoying to the people around you. If you must chew gum during the day do it without popping or blowing bubbles. Not only is it distracting but it makes you appear to be a kid.

Eating lunch at your desk is fine as long as you aren't a messy eater. Bring in food that has little mess to it. Never take fish to work many people do not like the smell of fish and may become sick from it. Be considerate when packing your meal for the day.

If someone comes up to you while your mouth is full of food. Finish chewing before you talk to them.

Also it is generally rude to start talking to a person while they are in the middle of eating lunch.

Check your Facebook,Myspace or any other personal sites at home. The workplace is not the place to be looking at drunk pictures of your friends.

If you accidentally bump into someone say "excuse me" or "sorry" don;t be rude and just keep walking.

If you are having a problem with a co-worker try to politely speak with them about it. This means no yelling or crying. If this does not work go to a manager and talk to them about it in private. Do not tell the entire office about your problem with this person.

These are just a few good examples of workplace etiquette. Follow these and you are sure to be a favorite at work. Being nice to people will prompt them to be nice to you in return and a happy workplace is a healthy workplace.

Updated : October 28, 2009, 03:18PM