Code of Conduct: Workplace Etiquette.

Every workplace has its code of conduct, usually unique to it. Despite how vast organizations are, even with their code of conduct, there are a couple of non-negotiable rules that govern most organizations.

Work etiquette is a code that governs the expectations of social behavior in a workplace. This code is put in place to respect and protect time, people, and processes. There is no universal agreement about a standard work etiquette, which may vary from one environment to another.

Work etiquette includes a wide range of aspects such as body language, good behavior, appropriate use of technology, etc. Part of office etiquette is working well with others and communicating effectively.

A company gets its employees to produce the greatest results with the least amount of effort using the resources available to them, Employee etiquette refers to codes of conduct an individual should follow while at work.

Let us go through some workplace etiquette:

▪ Respect your organization to expect the same in return. Do not treat your organization as a mere source of earning money. Remember your organization is paying you for your hard work and not for gossiping and loitering around.

▪ Be at the office on time. If your office timing is 9 AM, make sure you are there at 8.50 AM. It is essential to be disciplined at the workplace.

▪ Leave all your personal problems out the moment you step in the office. It is unprofessional to mix personal and professional life. Keep them separate.

▪ Greet your fellow workers with a smile.

▪ Follow the professional dress code. Never wear anything which shows much of your skin. Female employees should not wear revealing dresses or deep neck blouses to work.

▪ Never ever enter office under the influence of alcohol. It is an offence.

▪ As a responsible employee, you have no rights to share confidential information with any of the external parties under any circumstances. Data in any form must not be leaked to anyone who bears no relation with the organization.

▪ Keep your cell phones in the silent mode to avoid disturbing others sitting around you. Loud ringtones at the workplace are a strict no no. Avoid long personal calls during office hours.

▪ Keep your workstation free of unwanted documents and files. Avoid having lunch at your desk. It creates a mess.

▪ Learn to own up to your mistakes. Stick to your statements. Stay away from blame games and nasty politics at the workplace. Remember conflicts and misunderstandings lead you nowhere. It is always better to discuss issues face to face and reach a mutually acceptable solution.

▪ While communicating through emails, make sure your boss is in the loop. It is foolish to hide things from him/her. Master the art of writing emails. Emails must be self explanatory and a clear reflection of one’s thoughts.

▪ Respect your fellow workers. Help them whenever required. Never give them wrong suggestions.

▪ Treat all your fellow workers as one irrespective of their education and designation in the organization.

▪ Never take undue advantage of your position. Do not ask for personal favors from your subordinates. Too much of friendship at the workplace is bad.

▪ Respect each other’s privacy. Do not open envelopes not meant for you. It is bad manners to read your colleague’s email or check his messages.

▪ Stay away from controversies. Do not spread rumors around. It is strictly unprofessional

Good etiquette is just as important at work as it is in social settings.

Practicing good workplace etiquette can help you model appropriate behavior for your staff and enhance your effectiveness as a supervisor. Understanding a few basic principles of supervisory etiquette can help you avoid problems and earn the respect of your subordinates.