Office Skills

Treating Co-workers With Respect

Manners matter, whether you work in an office, a store, or from home

Because it can be easy to become engrossed in our work, it’s important to take a moment to evaluate how we interact with our associates. Good manners are a must, even if you’re the only one who has them!

By Bill Lindsey

1 Be Respectful

Even if you work in an office where it’s casual day every day, dogs are allowed, and you can take ping-pong game breaks, you are there to perform specific tasks. Getting too comfortable can negatively affect productivity. If you listen to music, keep it muted to avoid distracting others. Limit the number and length of personal calls each day, stepping away from your desk to take or make them to avoid disturbing others while maintaining your privacy.

2 Zoom In

If your workday involves taking part in virtual meetings, prior to the next call, check to see what the other participants will see in your background. If there is something that could be distracting to others, reposition your camera or move the object. If you work from home, make sure the kids know to stay out of your workspace. Dress appropriately, avoiding T-shirts with questionable graphics or clothing that makes it look like you just fell out of bed.

3 Be Helpful

Without allowing it to negatively impact your duties, be helpful to co-workers. If you are computersavvy and notice a co-worker struggling with—or worse, yelling at—their computer, offer to assist. Sometimes jiggling a loose connection is all that is needed to avoid the wait for IT to arrive. Other nice touches include holding the office or elevator door, and keeping an eyeglass tool kit, a sewing kit, and a small first aid kit in your desk drawer.

4 Be Generous

Every once in a while, bring coffee or danishes for your co-workers. If a co-worker was saddled with a huge project, offer to help, after making sure your boss approves. If you came home from a trade show with swag, share it with co-workers. Generosity extends to being thoughtful; saying “Happy birthday” to a co-worker or giving a dog toy to a co-worker who just adopted a rescue dog can make someone’s day, making them feel liked and appreciated.

5 Admit to Mistakes

Things happen, from a jammed copier to a botched presentation. As soon as you realize something has gone awry, make your boss aware of what happened, as well as how you did—or will—correct it, and how you’ll make sure it never happens again. Be honest; trying to cover up a mistake or offering a weak excuse only makes it worse. Use the mistake as a learning exercise.