There are some rules of etiquette that are necessary in every workplace. In a professional setting or any other work environment, there are behaviors that can be socially acceptable but can land you in serious problems if practiced in a work setting. Unnecessary actions or behavior can garner you ire of your fellow workers and most of all it can cost you your job. That is why it is important to understand Do’s and Don’ts in a work place. This knowledge will not only keep you out of trouble from your bosses but will also give you admiration and respect from other workers.

The Do’s

Dressing appropriately- workplaces have a prescribed dress code concerning office and other work stations attire. It’s not a must that you wear a suit every day, all you need is to ensure that whatever you wear is professional and in line with companies rules and regulations. It’s okay to go slightly below or above the set dress code requirement but always make sure you dress somehow like your co-workers.

 Observe personal and organizational hygiene- no one would wish to stay or work close to a person who is unclean. Make a habit of taking a shower and brushing your teeth daily before reporting to work. When it comes to organizational hygiene, avoid dirtying the compound or leaving washrooms unclean after use.

 Keep away from conflicts and arguments- try your best to maintain friendly working relationships with co-workers. A healthy relationship makes it easy to clock in and clock out.  Conflicts can cause you to be:

•        Fired
•        Be sent to unpaid leave
•        Suspension
•        Be included in company’s redundancy program

         Respect workplace hierarchy- it’s good to respect and recognize the chain of command.  In every workplace there are those in command and every employee is expected to obey them. By so doing an individual will be out of trouble.

 Keep time- it’s good to arrive in time but reporting earlier portrays your passion for the job as well as the company.

Don’ts

Don’t be late- don’t make a habit of coming to work late. If possible be getting to work place 15 minutes before time. Lateness can cost you your job since no employer can tolerate tardiness.

 Don’t go waltzing in the workplace at your own time- don’t let your boss get you loitering around the workplace when you are expected to be working if you are doing unimportant things. Bosses expect you to be productive; when you loiter around shooting the breeze with your colleagues,  you are dragging behind company’s performance.

 Don’t play loud music on your computer or radio- people have different tastes and preferences when it comes to songs. One may think that the songs they love listening to are the best for all only to realize that you are only boring and irritating them. If one needs to listen to music it’s good to use headphones.

 Don’t act like a “know it all”- doing it all doesn’t mean you know it all.  Give room for other people’s opinions. 

 Don’t take advantage of company’s resources- most employees think that because certain things are purchased to cater for their needs they are theirs. No! Company’s resources are to be used where necessary but not taking them home for your personal use.

  In conclusion, it’s always good to portray the best behavior while at work. This is beneficial in helping you create a healthy relationship between you and your colleagues and also between you and your employer. However, even as people strive to portray the best behavior it’s also good to be competitive and effective in their line of work. For example, individuals working in companies dealing with motor vehicle number plates need to have DVLA contact number for any inquiry regarding the plates. They will be able to consult and deliver outstanding services where needed. With appropriate behavior and productivity your stay in the organization is guaranteed.

Submitted by Maria Mcquire