“Workplace etiquette creates a better working environment for everyone.” Jeannette Seibly
Millennials enjoy working in pods, impromptu meetings in hallways, team lunches and brainstorming in huddle rooms, according to VTS Blog. Offices and cubicles have effectively disappeared from the millennial-focused workplace. This can create difficulty for some employees that rely on privacy, personal space and the ability to concentrate to get work done.
It’s important for all employees to be aware of how workplace etiquette impacts everyone.
Ask, Don’t Assume before Creating Standard Policies
In a confidential survey ask, what is working and what is not working before making any changes. Many companies use online survey systems (e.g., SurveyMonkey.com) for easy distribution and review of responses.
Concerns Most Often Addressed
Dress Code
- -Wear appropriate clothing, jewelry, shoes, etc.
- -Safety is important.
- -No personal grooming at the desk or in the common areas.
Code of Conduct
- -Talk with individuals promptly in a professional manner to address specific complaints.
- -No pop-over the walls to ask questions, instead walk around to talk.
- -Knock before entering someone’s work space.
- -Don’t interrupt conversations or meetings.
- -Take all personal calls in private areas.
- -Use speaker phones and schedule conference calls in rooms with doors.
- -Designate areas where meetings may be held.
Smells
- -Setup a common area for employees to eat and discourage eating at desks.
- -Ban certain foods that can cause dreadful smells.
- -Fragrance-free, smoke-free and pet-free environments support those with allergies and sensitives.
Sights
- -Have a standard for desk décor and neatness.
- -Ban political, sexual or religious displays.
Sounds
- -No pacing around while talking on cell phones.
- -Turn off ringtones, buzzers and alert sounds from electronic devices.
- -Remind staff to lower voices or send private messages when conversations are too loud.
- -Encourage use of headphones to reduce noise.
Positive workplace etiquette creates a better working environment for everyone.
(c)Jeannette Seibly, 2018
Jeannette Seibly has been recognized as a catalyst for the past 25 years. As an executive coach, speaker and author, she provides straight talk with dynamic results. Creating a healthy workplace environment attracts and retains productive employees. Contact Jeannette now for a preliminary confidential conversation.