Power skills | Office etiquette
The essential guide to office etiquette
Whether you are starting your first professional role, changing jobs or transitioning from remote to in-person work, understanding how to act in an office environment is crucial in making a good impression and building strong relationships
Words Sophie Cross
Your professional conduct forms the foundation of how colleagues perceive you. Small details in your appearance and behaviour can speak volumes about your work ethic and reliability. This guide breaks down 16 top tips for getting office etiquette right and four no-nos.
1
Dress appropriately: Even in casual environments, maintain a neat appearance. Notice what others wear and aim for similar standards. If in doubt, it is better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.
2
Punctuality matters: Arrive on time for work and meetings. Being consistently late suggests disrespect for others’ time and will cause people to feel frustrated with you.
3
Keep your space tidy: Your desk space represents you. A clean workspace shows good organisational skills.
4
Respect shared areas: Clean up after yourself in kitchens, meeting rooms, at hot-desks and other common spaces.
How to communicate effectively
Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and helps you build trusted relationships with colleagues. How you express yourself matters as much as what you say.
5
Mind your volume: Be aware of your speaking voice, especially in open-plan offices. Keep personal calls private and brief.
6
Email etiquette: Use clear subject lines, professional but friendly language (don’t be overly formal) and respond promptly. Avoid copying (CCing) others unless necessary.
7
Listen actively: Give colleagues your full attention when they are speaking. Put away your phone during conversations and meetings.
8
Think before speaking: Consider if what you are about to say is necessary, true and kind. Don’t get a reputation for being an office gossip.
Hybrid working
The workplace has transformed significantly with the rise of hybrid working. These new patterns require additional consideration to ensure all team members feel included and valued.
9
Connect with remote colleagues: Make extra effort to include those working from home. Ensure they can participate fully in discussions.
10
Virtual meeting conduct: Turn your camera on when possible, mute when not speaking and use the chat function appropriately.
11
Flexible boundaries: Respect that colleagues might work different hours in hybrid arrangements. Avoid sending messages outside of working hours unless really needed.
12
Check your tech: Make sure your equipment works properly before meetings to avoid wasting everyone’s time with technical issues.
Build great working relationships
Your network of professional relationships will become one of your most valuable career assets. Investing time in meaningful connections with colleagues pays dividends throughout your working life.
13
Learn names quickly: Make the effort to remember colleagues’ names and roles. Jot them down in your notebook to help you.
14
Find mentors: Identify experienced colleagues who can help guide you.
15
Be helpful: Offer assistance when you can. Small acts of kindness create a butterfly effect.
16
Accept feedback gracefully: View constructive criticism as an opportunity to grow, not personal attacks.
TOP TIPS
What not to do
1
Don’t overuse your phone
Constant scrolling suggests disengagement from your work and colleagues.
2
Don’t take credit for others’ work
Always acknowledge contributions from team members.
3
Don’t bring strong-smelling food
Consider others when choosing lunch options for the office.
4
Don’t interrupt your colleagues
Make sure you let people finish their thoughts before you speak yourself.
The workplace continues to change but courtesy, professionalism and consideration for others remain constant values. By observing office norms and treating colleagues with respect, you will build a positive reputation that supports your career growth.
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