Manners are an essential skill at work. Good manners show that you care about and respect others and are willing to put the work in to make everyone comfortable in social situations. While our moods can fluctuate, frustrations can arise, and disputes can occur, we must always make sure to stay respectful and well-mannered in order to create a productive and welcoming work environment.
This article will go over some of the fundamental rules you should follow at work to show others respect and bring a positive attitude.
Why pay attention to manners?
Manners have changed a lot over the past few decades, and are still changing. An increased usage of electronic devices has led to a rather relaxed attitude towards manners regarding them, as people feel confident browsing their devices when they shouldn’t be. Person-to-person interactions are diminishing, with dangerous consequences already showing in human relationships.
Practicing good manners not just one day a year but every day can become a habit, which will make every working environment more pleasant for everyone. In today’s global business world, it has become essential to educate ourselves about what behavior and interactions are acceptable across borders. The success of business activities may depend on how we come across. But rest assured, rules like honesty, respect, kindness, and consideration apply worldwide.
Unfortunately, wherever you turn you will find evidence of a lack of good manners. People who don't say thank you or please, use their electronic devices whilst you engage with them, talk about others behind their back, or don’t clean up after themselves. Rather than treating this as a pass to be rude ourselves, we should strive to set a good example to others.
How to start using your manners
A good start is to become fully aware of how you interact with your colleagues. Examine whether your habits align with your company’s values and culture. Self-reflection and asking for feedback are great tools to rectify manners as appropriate.
Introducing small, kind gestures into your daily behavior can have a significant impact. For example, you could look out for anyone in the office who may be struggling and offer help. Some people are naturally less confident or outgoing and may feel left out, so you could start up a conversation or offer them a coffee, as it can make them feel appreciated and integrated. Listen actively, show appreciation and smile.
Tips for how to bring your manners to work
Say hello
Greet your colleagues and check in on them when you arrive in the morning. Don’t flop down into your chair at your desk looking like it’s “another mundane day” - focus on the positive aspects of your work and remember that the day will turn out the way you think it will.
Keep your voice down
We tend to speak much louder on the phone than in person and it can be annoying to others, especially if you frequently speak loudly and in length. Other people need to focus on their tasks, and a loud voice can distract them from their work.
Be on time
Don’t waste other people’s time by making them wait for you. Calls and meetings are scheduled for a reason, and being late can cause more of a disruption than you think.
Clean up after yourself
A neat and tidy space can have a positive effect on mood, while an untidy space sends you down the mood scale. Just imagine that you have finally accomplished a challenging task and are craving a cup of coffee... only to find the office kitchen full of used mugs, plates, and food crumbs! If you don’t want it for yourself, others won’t want it either.
Mind your appearance
Always dress appropriately for work, arrive well-groomed and ideally wear a small amount of a nice fragrance. If it’s too hot, wear thinner, cooler fabrics that covers your body – don't turn up wearing what you would in a beach bar!
Eat at the designated area
Avoid eating at your desk and choose foods that don’t fill the room with strong smells like fish, garlic, boiled eggs, or fermented cheese. They might be good for your health, but not for the noses of others, so you’re better off enjoying them at home.
Put your cellphone away
Resist the temptation to check notifications, it’s best to turn them off. Bring your senses to the real world around you and give your attention and a bit of time to your colleagues instead. You might be able to learn something new or make new friends.
Be respectful
By showing consideration for others and saying please and thank you, people around you will feel respected as they will know that you respect their time and effort.
Read on: Code Of Conduct In IT Companies: 24 Examples You Can Use.
Learning the art of good manners doesn’t require specific skills or resources, just an open mind and the right attitude. The wonderful thing about practicing good manners is that you and the people around you can reap the benefits straight away.