I have seen many heated discussions on this topic and recently got call from a colleague on what are the big "NO" when one joins a corporate office. It more or less depends on the region you are working in or the country, the traditions etc: but more or less we can find certain ground rules that are considered a big "NO" in the office environment.
(1) DRAMA...Please no
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Some people consider the officer as a stage and themselves as an actor and shows all the drama in office..Whether they get a hike, they get some extra work or whether it be anything, they let the whole office know by creating a hype..This not only creates negativity as you try to be the center of attraction but will make others think to stay away from you (which you possibly don't want to happen)...If you think you are the sole entertainer in the office, please open your eyes, entertainment at times are fun; if you do it every day, well you will be a subject of joke to others. Your workplace is not a serial, so no drama, which means talk clearly about your roles and responsibilities without drama and never disclose things to people who are not interested in it or who can't benefit from it (you waste their time and yours).
By avoiding drama, also ensure that you are not the chatterbox (disturbing others) or the one carrying unnecessary rumors. Up to a certain point, people may enjoy this, but not often, avoid these fully if possible.
(2) TOUCHING...NO NO and NO
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This was one topic that garnered a lot of popularity when it was mentioned that touching someone without their consent is considered a sexual offense..As per etiquette and moral values, you should not touch another person, especially one of opposite gender, in the office..The cameras are watching you and even if it is not, this is considered a very poor manner to behave in a corporate office..Remember that this is your workplace and not a club, so behave as per that..No touching unless your job demands it (like a doctor)
(3) EATING AT DESK is a genuine NO NO
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Often people try to adjust their time by eating at desk, this is another big NO at office especially if it includes foods that create smell (non veg/chewing gums) or liquid (colas or so) as it can spill destroying machine parts and can even attract ants/such things that can create further problems. Never leave any mess in office that can cause discomfort to your colleagues or cleaning staff. This is especially true about restrooms (make sure you flush toilets properly after use).
(4) Picking/flossing etc NOT at your desk
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Nose picking, flossing etc: looks unhealthy in office, avoid touching the face completely if possible. You can use restrooms for this but ensure that nobody is watching you doing the same. Restrooms can also be used for wearing contact lenses (if any) rather than doing it at desk.
(5) FOUL language is a BIG no
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To use abusive language, verbally or by action, is not only a crime, but strictly against office ethics. Avoid using any such language as it permanently tarnishes your image. Don't try to threaten others as everyone wants a safe work environment.
(6) No personal things at office or Office at home
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Unless you are a work from home person, do not carry work home..Also, do not carry personal problems (financial,personal fights etc) to office..Office is not a place to discuss these issues, you may discuss this at free time in office, but not during work hours. Many employees block social networking and related sites to avoid these things, but employees should exhibit this responsibility themselves.
(7) Coughing or sneezing UNCOVERED
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This is not only bad manners, but sneezing or coughing without covering nose/mouth can cause germs to spread and make others sick; if you have a genuine reason like sick, take leave rather than infecting others,this is considered good manners too.
(1) DRAMA...Please no
--------------------------
Some people consider the officer as a stage and themselves as an actor and shows all the drama in office..Whether they get a hike, they get some extra work or whether it be anything, they let the whole office know by creating a hype..This not only creates negativity as you try to be the center of attraction but will make others think to stay away from you (which you possibly don't want to happen)...If you think you are the sole entertainer in the office, please open your eyes, entertainment at times are fun; if you do it every day, well you will be a subject of joke to others. Your workplace is not a serial, so no drama, which means talk clearly about your roles and responsibilities without drama and never disclose things to people who are not interested in it or who can't benefit from it (you waste their time and yours).
By avoiding drama, also ensure that you are not the chatterbox (disturbing others) or the one carrying unnecessary rumors. Up to a certain point, people may enjoy this, but not often, avoid these fully if possible.
(2) TOUCHING...NO NO and NO
------------------------------------------
This was one topic that garnered a lot of popularity when it was mentioned that touching someone without their consent is considered a sexual offense..As per etiquette and moral values, you should not touch another person, especially one of opposite gender, in the office..The cameras are watching you and even if it is not, this is considered a very poor manner to behave in a corporate office..Remember that this is your workplace and not a club, so behave as per that..No touching unless your job demands it (like a doctor)
(3) EATING AT DESK is a genuine NO NO
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Often people try to adjust their time by eating at desk, this is another big NO at office especially if it includes foods that create smell (non veg/chewing gums) or liquid (colas or so) as it can spill destroying machine parts and can even attract ants/such things that can create further problems. Never leave any mess in office that can cause discomfort to your colleagues or cleaning staff. This is especially true about restrooms (make sure you flush toilets properly after use).
(4) Picking/flossing etc NOT at your desk
-----------------------------------------------
Nose picking, flossing etc: looks unhealthy in office, avoid touching the face completely if possible. You can use restrooms for this but ensure that nobody is watching you doing the same. Restrooms can also be used for wearing contact lenses (if any) rather than doing it at desk.
(5) FOUL language is a BIG no
-------------------------------------------------------------------
To use abusive language, verbally or by action, is not only a crime, but strictly against office ethics. Avoid using any such language as it permanently tarnishes your image. Don't try to threaten others as everyone wants a safe work environment.
(6) No personal things at office or Office at home
------------------------------------------------------
Unless you are a work from home person, do not carry work home..Also, do not carry personal problems (financial,personal fights etc) to office..Office is not a place to discuss these issues, you may discuss this at free time in office, but not during work hours. Many employees block social networking and related sites to avoid these things, but employees should exhibit this responsibility themselves.
(7) Coughing or sneezing UNCOVERED
---------------------------------------------
This is not only bad manners, but sneezing or coughing without covering nose/mouth can cause germs to spread and make others sick; if you have a genuine reason like sick, take leave rather than infecting others,this is considered good manners too.
