When working in a workplace all day, it’s of great importance to show good manners and proper etiquette. The essence of good job etiquette and manners is to be respectful and courteous at all times and with everybody. Avoiding bad manners at work is such a simple thing to do and can have a profound impact on improving your working environment and your relationships with others. These basic job etiquette and manners can help you act appropriately and build good relationships in the workplace.
■Keep Appropriate Dressing and Grooming
Dress professionally, or in the manner expected at your particular work site. Do not wear ultra-casual, provocative or evening attire or expose midriff to display body piercing and tattoos. Clothing, hair, hands and nails should always be clean and neat. Take a shower or bath regularly. Perfume or cologne should be used sparingly or not at all. Clothes should be pressed and fit properly, with no missing buttons or lint. Make sure the shoe heels are not worn down.
■Adopt Appropriate Behavior while Working
It is bad manners to chew gum and pop bubble gum in the presence of co-workers. Scratching, yawning, flossing teeth, playing with hair, cleaning finger-nails, putting on make-up are also not good practice at the workplace.
Do not cough or sneeze in anyone’s direction. Use a tissue, if possible, to contain the germs and then say “Excuse me”. It’s better not to speak in a loud or aggressive manner or leave your personal cell phone on during business hours; please use the vibrating feature if needed. Separate your private life from your professional life and deal with your personal affairs during your personal time, for instance, during lunch hour. You should keep your technology items (such as, radio, mp3) low or use a headset and be especially quiet in areas where coworkers are making business calls or in conversations with other coworkers or clients. It’s also impolite to drum your fingers on the desk even if you’re impatient or annoyed at an individual or other people in the room.