Etiquette refers to the proper, polite way to conduct yourself in certain situations. Virtually everyone holds a job at some point in their lives. Workplaces are full of interactions with co-workers, bosses and others. Proper etiquette is important in workplace social situations because it impacts how you deal with others and how they perceive you. Workplace social etiquette is fairly simple. The rules center around being respectful of others.
Benefits
Using proper workplace social etiquette makes a good impression on your co-workers and superiors. Most workplace social etiquette is centered around respect for others. Following etiquette rules shows you are a team player and can help you get a better performance review and be considered for better assignments and promotions.
Dress
Professional attire should be worn in the workplace. Wearing sloppy, dirty clothes is bad etiquette. So is wearing gaudy or revealing clothing. Many workplaces are loosening their dress codes and allowing business casual attire or even blue jeans and T-shirts. No matter what you wear, make sure it is neat, clean and appropriate for a professional environment. Do not wear torn jeans or T-shirts with off-color or vulgar sayings on them, even in the most casual workplace. Limit perfume and cologne to a light application or leave it off entirely. Wearing heavy scents in large quantities is bad etiquette because it can bother your co-workers.
Social Relationships
Keep social relationships low key. It's OK to be friends with your co-workers, but don't waste time chatting or gossiping during the workday. It is especially bad etiquette to stand near a co-worker's desk or cubicle and carry on a loud conversation that distracts others in the area. Limit social interactions to breaks, lunchtime and after work. Be extremely cautious about dating co-workers, especially those who are your superiors or subordinates. This can create an awkward social situation if you break up. In the worst case, it can lead to sexual harassment charges.
Personal Calls
Limit personal phone calls in the workplace. Many employers forbid personal phone calls. Be cautious even if your employer allows them, and do not abuse the privilege. Speak softly so your conversation doesn't bother co-workers in other cubicles and offices. Keep calls short and to the point. Do not let a personal phone call interrupt a work-related conversation. If you have caller ID and see a personal call coming in, let it go to voicemail or answer quickly and tell the caller you will call back when you can. If you bring a cell phone to work, keep it in vibrate mode. Tracey Hodgkins of the Australian Experiential Learning Centre recommends telling others to communicate with you via short text messages rather than voice calls during work hours.
Food
Do not eat strong-smelling food in the office, especially if you work in a cubicle environment or open area where odors can travel. It is poor etiquette to subject the entire workplace to onions, garlic or other overwhelming odors, according to Advanced Etiquette. Choose items that won't bother others if you eat at your desk, and go to the lunchroom or another appropriate area if you have potentially bothersome food.
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