Things no one will teach you at work
Workplace etiquette is about more than just rules—it's about building a culture of respect, collaboration, and empathy. By paying attention to the unspoken nuances of behaviour, you can create a positive work environment that benefits everyone
Workplaces are more than just spaces where we earn a living—they are environments where culture, professionalism, and collaboration come together.
While schools, colleges, and onboarding sessions prepare you for jobs and deadlines, no one sits down to explain the nuances of workplace etiquette. These unspoken rules can significantly impact how you are perceived and how effectively you blend into your team.
Here are some key aspects of workplace behaviour that no one explicitly teaches but are essential to maintaining a harmonious and professional environment.
Personal hygiene: More than just perfume
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No amount of perfume can mask poor personal hygiene. An essential but often overlooked workplace rule is maintaining a neutral body odour; no one should rely on strong perfumes to cover up odours. Regardless of how rushed your morning may be, taking a quick shower and wearing clean clothes can spare others from discomfort and help maintain your professional image.
Eating without noise (and in the right places)
No one enjoys the sound of loud chewing, slurping, or crunching during a meeting or in a shared workspace. If you must eat, find a suitable place and be mindful of the noise you make. Since online meetings are more practical and popular, we must avoid visibly munching on snacks or sipping drinks during video conferences—they are distracting and unprofessional.
Respect meeting protocols
Meetings provide a valuable opportunity for ideas to come together, so it is essential to approach them with professionalism and respect. Being punctual demonstrates your commitment, and it's best to allow the organiser to present the objectives before jumping in with your thoughts.
If you arrive late, please enter quietly to maintain the flow of discussion. Aim to contribute constructively and save any off-topic discussions for later to keep the meeting focused. Try to avoid taking calls during a briefing to show respect for everyone's time.
Treat everyone with respect
Hierarchy exists in every organisation, but respect should not be contingent on pay grades or titles. Whether it's the junior-most team member or the CEO, treating everyone respectfully fosters a positive work environment and strengthens team spirit.
Manage your facial expressions
Your face is the first thing people notice, and it can speak volumes about your mood. A grumpy or irritated expression can inadvertently lower team morale. Even when you're not in the best frame, maintaining a neutral or welcoming demeanour can ensure your mood doesn't negatively impact others. A smile, even a small one, can make a big difference in how approachable and collaborative you appear.
Be mindful of team dynamics
In a Bangladeshi workplace, team lunches are more than just a break—they are a bonding ritual. While you're not obligated to host, checking if your colleagues would like to join you for lunch or take a break together is courteous. This small gesture reinforces camaraderie and ensures no one feels left out.
Noise control: Conversations, notifications, and tones
Keeping your voice low during phone calls and personal conversations is a mark of consideration for others in a shared workspace. Similarly, muting your phone or computer notifications during meetings or work hours shows respect for everyone's concentration and time.
Offer help without waiting to be asked
If you notice a colleague struggling with a task or juggling multiple responsibilities, offer to help—even if it's not part of your job description. Lending a hand builds goodwill and establishes you as a team player.
Don't hoard or overstep in shared spaces
Whether it's the pantry, the printer, or meeting rooms, shared spaces should be used with consideration. Do not leave your belongings lying around and do not monopolise shared resources. Additionally, clean up after yourself to ensure everyone can use the facilities comfortably.
Understand boundaries
Workplace relationships often involve a blend of camaraderie and professionalism. While connecting with colleagues is essential, oversharing personal details or prying into someone else's life can make others uncomfortable. Respect boundaries, both physical and conversational.
Acknowledge and appreciate
Sometimes, a simple "thank you" or "great job" goes a long way. Acknowledging your colleagues' contributions, however small, creates a culture of mutual respect and encouragement. Do not let ego or oversight stop you from expressing gratitude.
Respect time and deadlines
Time is a shared resource at work, and being mindful of others' schedules is crucial. Be punctual, meet deadlines, and avoid last-minute requests unless absolutely necessary. Respecting others' time demonstrates professionalism and reliability.
At the end of the day, the little things—like smiling at your team, eating considerately, or simply acknowledging someone's effort—can have a significant impact. So, take a moment to reflect on your workplace habits and ask yourself—Am I making it easier for others to work with me? This is ultimately what excellent workplace etiquette is all about.
Shafiq R Bhuiyan is a storyteller who examines the intersection of social progress, effective communication, cultural development, and corporate social responsibility while sharing insights to inspire change.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
