10 Workplace Etiquette Tips to Boost Your Popularity in the Office

The Covid-19 pandemic brought about new social norms, and the office was not spared from these changes. With the adoption of a hybrid work model and the emergence of young employees who began their careers remotely, it is challenging to define and adhere to office norms.

To maximize the benefits of in-person interactions, it may be beneficial to review the guidelines for effective communication and collaboration in a shared workspace.

To improve your popularity at work, follow these 10 etiquette guidelines.

1. Don't take personal calls in common areas.

To respect others' privacy, it is best to take personal calls in a private room or conference space.

2. 'Have you met my friend?'

Sarah Jane Ho, a Harvard-trained etiquette expert, advises that workplace happy hours and office parties can lead to uncomfortable conversations, especially when alcohol is present. To avoid awkward chats, she suggests grabbing a friend or colleague.

"Introducing someone else to the person you're conversing with is the most effective way to end the conversation, according to Ho. It's so smooth that they won't even realize it's happening."

She suggests introducing her friend, who is very impressive, to you.

3. Send clear, direct emails.

According to a survey of 2,000 U.S. office workers from Babbel, a majority of people, or 60%, report that the volume of emails they receive at work contributes to their daily stress levels.

While it may be difficult to completely avoid using Outlook, you can strive to write emails that do not feel overwhelming to your colleagues.

The GROW framework can help you send emails that don't irritate your colleagues.

• Goal: What am I trying to achieve through this message or response?
• Reality: Does this message address the reality of what's happening?
• Options: Does this message give the person options to move forward?
• Will this message indicate what we should act on next?

4. Talk at a respectful volume.

Ensure that your voice is kept at a volume that does not disturb others while taking a professional phone call at your desk.

5. Don't leave dirty dishes on your desk.

The unkempt workspaces are a significant issue for employees after Covid-19, according to Christina Gialleli, the director of people operations at software learning company Epignosis.

Expecting your co-workers to feel the same way about a dirty lunch dish sitting by your keyboard at home is poor form, she says.

6. Respond to emails in 24 hours or less.

A survey from Babbel reveals that 36% of Gen Z workers have over 1,000 unread emails in their inbox.

Responding promptly to project inquiries enhances teamwork and efficiency, according to Brandon Smith, a therapist and career coach known as The Workplace Therapist. He advises responding to inquiries within 24 hours.

Being responsive is one of the fastest ways to earn trust and credibility at work, according to Smith.

7. Show up to the happy hour (for a bit).

Skipping out on a professional happy hour could be perceived negatively.

Smith states that the assumption if someone doesn't attend these events is "this person doesn't like us."

Attending a meeting for 30 to 40 minutes can demonstrate your interest in your colleagues and show that you do not dislike them.

8. Keep your to-do list to yourself.

According to a study published in Personnel Psychology by the University of Georgia, individuals who boast about their work stress are perceived as less skilled and less friendly by their colleagues.

Experts advise against listing every task on your to-do list as it can make you appear out-of-touch and unable to handle stress effectively.

9. Celebrate your colleagues.

Recognize and appreciate your colleagues' outstanding efforts in their recent project or planning a milestone birthday celebration.

10. Don't bring up work at the happy hour.

To make the most of a work happy hour, try to engage with your colleagues in a more casual and personal manner.

"Smith advises using this opportunity to socialize about non-business topics, such as family, personal background, or hobbies."

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