Office Etiquette: A Brief Guide

Whether you are working at a part-time position on campus, or you are off working in the corporate world at a summer internship or job, office etiquette is essential.  We are all taught to mind our manners (hopefully!) … but did you know that etiquette expectations are different in the workplace?  It usually takes some time to understand and navigate them completely, but read on for some basic pointers.

Respect is ESSENTIAL.  It is the main ingredient of a functional workplace.  Respect all of those around you at all times (no, not just your boss and your cubicle-mate… but everyone you come in contact with on a daily basis).  Respect not only relates to time and deadlines, but also to personal space, and to language. 

TIMELINESS: Don’t be late!  If you are asked to be at work by 8AM, please respect that and arrive by 8AM (a few minutes early never hurt, either).  Of course, things happen (traffic jams, delayed trains, etc.) and you may be late once in a while, but don’t make a habit of it.   The same goes for lunch breaks.  Be mindful of the fact that you have a designated amount of time to eat and take breaks, and be respectful of it.  Be a minute or two early for any meetings that you have scheduled- this shows your co-workers that you are responsible and that you take your job seriously. Lastly, don’t leave early!  Work your full work day. 

Note: Culture will vary by workplace.  It’s always better to be extra attentive when it comes to time until you learn the ropes.

PERSONAL SPACE: Practice proper feng shui.  Chances are you aren’t sitting in a corner office just yet.  You might just have a desk or cubicle to yourself.  Keep your own space clean: don’t let anything messy or smelly pile up.  There’s no harm in using some Clorox wipes to keep things dust-free.  If you are sharing a small space, don’t crowd your co-workers with your things.  Again, the key word is respect.  In terms of borrowing items… always ask first, and be sure to return them.  Don’t sneak up on your neighbors- always knock or say hello so that they’re not startled. 

Note: People are sensitive to smells.  Whether it’s fancy perfume or fragrant lunch menus, do yourself a favor and keep this in mind.  Your coworkers will thank you.  

LANGUAGE: R-E-S-P-E-C-T.  Whether written or verbal, in a quick email or a serious presentation, keep in mind that you are being judged on how you string your words together.  Think before you speak: who is listening to you?  Who might hear what you say from someone else?  Think before you hit send: Did you use spellcheck?  Is there a salutation and a greeting?  It’s advisable to be extra formal when you first start job… you may end up needing to maintain a high level of formality anyway.