Workplace etiquette is slipping through the cracks. Imagine this: You write something meaningful in an email and you cross fingers as you wait…and wait…and still no response. Or there is a snacker in your workplace who’s distracting you by mindlessly chewing their food. Sound familiar?
Pollack Peacebuilding Systems notes that around 33 percent of employees in the United States consider themselves engaged at work, whereas 16 percent are actively disengaged, an indicator that professional respect and connection are declining.
So what’s going on? Some workplace etiquette has been lost amid working remotely, communicating virtually, and busier lives in general. But here’s the truth—these small, simple habits matter. They will either establish or destroy links and spirits in the workplace. Professional manners bring changes in the course of interaction and cooperation when they are in the limelight.
Here are 17 professional etiquette essentials worth dusting off.
Saying “please” and “thank you”
How often do we omit these two small expressions when we are in a great hurry? Although it may seem minor, ignoring basic courtesies sends a message that is not well-received. A simple yet powerful gesture softens requests, and goodwill is gained by using heartfelt thank-yous to show people that they have been noticed and appreciated.
Conversely, failing to use these phrases will loosen respect and trust over time. A word in the jargon can spread far in creating a productive work environment.
Responding to emails promptly
You have that colleague, the one who will not respond to emails, as though it is a game? It isn’t enjoyable, especially when waiting for significant updates. Nobody is asking you to write an essay in reply, but at least sending a quick response will show respect for the sender’s time.
When you need more time to respond to the email, use something like, “Got it! I’ll get back to you by [insert time].” It is a small effort that will ensure the sender knows you have the work at hand.
Avoiding gossip
Gossip may feel good at that time, but it is a trust-buster. Sharing rumors creates tension and damages relationships. Chronic gossipers are also likely to develop a reputation for unreliability, which will affect their credibility, not just the target of their gossip.
An environment devoid of rumors promotes a culture of collaboration, esteem, and trust at the workplace.
Making eye contact
You attend a meeting, and the presenter doesn’t lift their head; instead, they stay focused on their laptop and notes. It feels dismissive. Maintaining eye contact —even if it’s just a glance —in person or over Zoom makes you appear as though you’re actively listening.
It shows you’re actively listening and value the exchange. And no, this doesn’t mean an intense, unblinking stare. A natural level of eye contact works just fine.
Keeping personal conversations
You may want to share aspects of your personal life at the workplace, but it is not always a good idea in an open office setting. Conversations may be loud, detailed, and disruptive to coworkers trying to focus.
Maintaining a certain level of respect, such as avoiding personal conversations in secret locations, helps keep the workplace and common areas focused.
Cutting back on unnecessary meetings
We have all been in meetings where an email would have been an enormous help. Unnecessary meetings waste time and drain energy. The question to consider before booking a meeting is whether it is the most appropriate way to convey such information.
Assuming it is a no, an email, a Slack message, or a speedy one-on-one is better. There must be an agenda and an objective for the meeting to ensure that no one wastes time.
Dressing for the job
The appearance, even in the work-from-home era, matters for professionalism. Primary examples include wearing PJs during a video call or wearing too informal attire to the workplace, which can give the wrong message.
Appropriate dress demonstrates respect for a position, company culture, and fellow workers. Casual Fridays are acceptable; however, remember to dress in accordance with workplace standards.
Being on time
Punctuality to a meeting, a deadline, or even a virtual call says a lot. Running late conveys an unspoken message of disregard for others’ time, while arriving on time communicates credibility and respect. It is a small habit, yet it can make a tremendous difference in how people perceive your professionalism.
Steering clear of social media at work
It is easy to take a quick peek at Instagram during work, but frequent social media browsing can come across as rude and unprofessional. It also slashes productivity. Reserve scrolling for breaks or lunch hours to stay focused and avoid giving the wrong impression to colleagues or managers.
Keeping your desk clean
An untidy desk not only causes stress for an individual but also discomfort in a shared area. Maintaining a clean working area demonstrates that you are organized and professional, even when no one is watching. And, it keeps you focused and on top of your work.
Using proper email etiquette
Think of emails as digital conversations. Would you attend a meeting in the middle of it, shouting about the meeting you want to have? Emails should be clear, polite, and professional.
Avoid using the “Reply All” button and get straight to the point without being impolite. And yes, minimal emoji in work email, unless your work culture is comfortable with that.
Listening without interrupting
Interrupting someone in the middle of a thought may not seem like an offense, but this can make people feel inferior. When applied, active listening should also lead to increased trust and better communication. It also leads to more productive and meaningful conversations.
Offering help when you can
Workplace collaboration thrives on a give-and-take dynamic. People are often so overwhelmed with their stuff that they can barely get their heads off the ground to breathe, especially in the workplace, where the most significant stress is, quite literally, the boss.
When you notice another coworker working hard, ask to help, whether it’s opening a door or lending a pen. The difference you can make is enormous. Not only does it enhance team relations, but it also creates a positive, conducive environment.
Respecting boundaries on time off
Work emails at 10 p.m.? Responding to Slack messages on vacation? Such habits blur the line between work and home life, ultimately benefiting no one. Enjoying standard working hours and equal rest are ways to help people recharge, fostering a culture that is more balanced and healthy.
Avoiding contentious topics
Discussions about politics, religion, or other controversial topics can easily escalate and lead to unnecessary workplace disputes. Although it is good to have healthy debates, it is usually advisable to avoid issues that keep people divided, as it is wiser to focus on those that unite people.
Being mindful of shared spaces
Munching on boneless fish in the office microwave, screaming conversations in open offices, and inconsiderate actions in common areas are the causes of frustration. Being mindful of others and respecting everyday work and living areas are among the easiest ways to help the workplace work harmoniously.
Handling conflicts with professionalism
Disagreements are inevitable, but how we handle them matters. Getting emotional and losing your cool is not an option that has a solution. Instead, approach conflicts calmly and professionally.
An emotionally intelligent response would be to respond calmly, which would enable one to solve problems more effectively.
Key takeaway
The office is not the right place to fight vanity, and workplace etiquette may seem outdated, yet it always leaves a significant impression on workplace cooperation. These 17 professional manners go beyond mere politeness; they are the means of creating a good, productive, and respectful professional environment.
Venturing back into all this helps raise the workplace culture, improve morale, and add a little more joy to the daily grind, so let us get these habits back into focus. Ok. Then let’s focus on these little great habits twice over-they are worth it!
Disclaimer–This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.
Disclosure: This article was developed with the assistance of AI and was subsequently reviewed, revised, and approved by our editorial team.
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