Work etiquette is a major tool to maintaining a pleasant and effective office. Work etiquette can be simply put as dos and don'ts an individual ought to follow at work. Although they are diversity in different workplace, but basic work etiquette is universal within a country. Etiquette is a standard that controls expectations of social behavior in the workplace. It covers a lot of areas when we speak of employees. Some of them include body language, behavior, the use of technology, and communication.
Basically, it's about how you deal with your coworkers, potential business partners, and customers. It comes down to treating others with respect, being aware of everyone present, and being polite in general. Your work is simpler and more fun with Etiquette. When someone interrupts you while you are talking, is late for a meeting, or steals your food in the refrigerator of the standard room, one begins to wonder how an individual can be so disrespectful. Observing work etiquette helps workers to relate properly with one another. First impressions count wherever you are, whatever you do. And the workplace is no exception.
In a matter of as little of seconds opinions get formed by people who are meeting for the first time. And once an impression has formed, it is difficult to change it. If you're starting a new role, joining a new business, meeting a new client or a new team, take the time to think about how you want to be viewed. Do you want to project trust? Do you want others to take you seriously, trust you, and immediately feel trustworthy? These are up to you to project by making a positive impression about yourself.
So, for most of us that work in a formal workplace setting, here are some important workplace etiquettes you should observe, and it will make your professional life enjoyable and impactful.
HAVE A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT
The values, policies and procedures of a workplace may be difficult to discern the time. If you are in a broader organization with a structured division of human resources, you can have access to a human resources or training manager to keep you informed of your organization's expectations. In a smaller work environment, some of this knowledge may come from observing others and questioning your co-workers when necessary. Finally, observing the moods and actions of others can help you understand what is appropriate and what is not and how to best navigate the workplace while maintaining your professionalism.
As the global market grows, so does the need to understand the multiple international standards of corporate etiquette. If you are accepting a job or internship in another country, look for the right one the etiquette, culture and customs of that country and the organization you plan to work for.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IS A MUST
Communication is an important part of work etiquette. When it comes to emails, make sure correspondence inside and outside your workplace is clearly written and free of spelling mistakes. Remember that email is a permanent record of any conversation, so never write down what you say in front of someone.
Sometimes it's not what you say, but how you say it that matters! Try as much as possible to filter your speech. Don’t be vulgar, try to measure your words in the workplace, think before speaking and respect other people’s perspectives and never make other people argument personal. Always apologize when you offend someone with your choice of words.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY
In modern age workplace, appearance is often combined with performance, and this plays a crucial role in every business. There is this adage that says dress the way you want to be addressed. Your professional image is of exceptional value in the formal sphere. Your work wears should be clean, ironed and fit smartly. With your outfit, you can leave a lasting impression on you on the minds of everyone around you.
If your work is casual this is what you should be wearing. If anything requires you to wear a three-piece suit, be sure to show up by wearing one. Appropriate clothing is the key to maintaining professionalism. People often make impressions on others within seconds of meeting them, so it's important to present yourself as a professional. Be aware of your body language and how others may perceive it. A good rule of thumb is to stand up, keep eye contact, be smart, and smile. Make sure you know the dress code in the workplace and the policies of the office. Be on time and ready for important meetings.
BE RESPECTFUL TO YOUR CO- WORKERS
Even when they don't respect you, your colleagues deserve respect It is essential to learn to recognize the religious opinions, political opinions, and sexual preferences of others. You do not have to agree with them all the time, but keep respect is the adequate label.
Sharing the workspace with others means that you will inevitably start conversations. Please take turns speaking without interrupting. Encourage each person to complete a reflection and engage in a discussion. Also, since workplaces are usually busy, you need to stick to your coworkers' schedules. Before you start a conversation, make sure they have time or want to talk now. Again, when an appointment has been requested, make sure you arrive on time, or rather arrive early. Also, resisting your personal calls in a meeting is a good idea. Show that you care about them and that they can count on you.
Do not indulge in rumors about other staff or office matters. Maintain a safe distance between your professional and personal life and the lives of others. In your free time, hang out with coworkers, talk about something light and positive rather than chatting in the office. Even if you are friendly with your coworkers, be careful not to cross borders. Over-sharing details of your personal life is unprofessional no matter how close you are with your teammates.
ERADICATE EVERY FORM OF DISTRACTION DURING WORK HOURS
In a Workspace its advice to avoid anything that will constitute to distraction during work. You may spend more waking hours in workspaces than in your home space. Keep the space professional, fit and proper with appropriate personal touches. People will see the space and see it as a reflection of you. Whether it is a cubicle or office, respect each other’s’ space. Don’t just walk in, knock, or make your presence gently known. Don't assume that acknowledging your presence is an invitation to sit down; expect to be asked to do soso and don’t interrupt people on the phone, and don’t try to communicate with them verbally or with sign language. You could disrupt an important phone call.
Limit personal calls and make sure your personal mobile phone is always on silent, especially if you work in a space that lacks a door. Find out when and where to use your cell phone in your office. Food consumption generally needs to be regulated. The smells and noise of food can distract other people trying to work. Minimize the volume of your voice when talking and unnecessary chatting during work hours is highly prohibited. Endeavor to promote a good work etiquette at all times.
