How to Maintain Effective Office Etiquettes

In a business environment, it is important to remain professional even if the company has a relaxed and fun atmosphere. While there may be rules and regulations regarding employee behaviors, effective office etiquettes go a long way. The first thing that employees must do is always be professional.

Professionalism will garner respect and show fellow coworkers and managers that you are serious about your job and can do the work. There are certain things that show good office etiquette. Knowing these key tips will help an employee survive in an office environment.

First, avoid the typical office gossip at all times. It is important not to encourage or contribute to idle gossip. Doing so will affect your reputation with coworkers and managers. There will always be people in any office that will start gossip or contribute to it. You do not have to be one of those people.

Next, avoid casual discussions regarding your personal life during business hours. Talking to coworkers about your vacation or your children in casual conversation is fine. But do not dwell too far into your relationships and give intimate details of your personal life.

Another good practice of office etiquette is to keep work email, strictly for work related email. Even sharing friendly emails between coworkers should be done using your personal email address. At any point, the IT person or a manager can gain access to your email and you will want to make sure that you are using yours for its intended purpose.

Lastly, maintain a firm grip on your emotions at all times. It is fine to laugh and smile, but losing your temper or getting emotion when things are not going well in the office is a bad sign that you cannot handle pressure.

No matter what the environment is, whether it is a fast food restaurant or a high end real estate office, effective office etiquettes are important. Following these guidelines will increase employee satisfaction. They will also make the office or place of business a better place to work.

This article was written for CleanEdison, Inc. CleanEdison serves federal, state and local governments, building design and construction firms, owners, operators, and real estate investors.  We have educated hundreds of companies and thousands of individuals in green building practices both through customized training and the largest open enrollment green training program in the nation.  CleanEdison has courses in the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), BPI (Building Performance Institute) Certification, Energy Auditing, Solar, Wind and Renewable Energy. CleanEdison has also developed numerous customized training programs specific to a business or organization's needs. Call CleanEdison for more information about BPI certification, LEED certification, and other courses near you.