Workplace etiquette: 10 things to make work more harmonious

Good manners are essential to maintaining a positive atmosphere at work. Here are 10 little rules that should be a part of your workplace etiquette.

Make sure two small words are always part of your workplace etiquette: please and thank you. They can make all the difference between a prickly interaction and one that leaves everybody feeling appreciated. A grouchy look can tarnish a relationship with a colleague, while a smile always greases the wheels.

Be on time for meetings with your colleagues. You are probably very busy, but so are they. By missing the beginning of the meeting, you may be missing out on important information, and your lateness also communicates to your colleagues that what they have to say is of no interest to you.

If you have a temporary need for a pen, a stapler or a chair, ask for permission before borrowing it, and return it in a timely manner.

Keep shared spaces and equipment clean and tidy. Do you really want to find cookie crumbs all over the conference table or dirty tissues next to the waste paper basket? Neither do your colleagues. Minimal cleanliness should be a part of any workplace etiquette.

Of course, the work place isn’t meant to be a sanctuary. It’s good to chat with colleagues since every workplace has its own acceptable level of general noise. However, do take care not to disturb your colleagues. Don’t speak loudly in open areas, and if possible, wear earbuds to listen to the radio.

Put your phone on vibration mode during working hours and refrain from checking it during meetings. You'll be more focused and you'll avoid disturbing your colleagues. You might just discover that the Earth won’t stop turning if you don’t check your messages every 30 seconds.

Unless you work as a lifeguard, your work doesn’t take place at the beach on the weekend. That means suggestive or overly casual attire is inappropriate. Of course, dress codes vary from one workplace to another. Consult your colleagues or your boss about the company dress code.

Bad-mouthing your colleagues, clients and boss will more than likely make others uncomfortable. If nothing ever seems to meet your standards, your collaborators could very well stay away from you and think of you as just a chronic complainer. Try to stay positive; people will appreciate you more for it.

If something upsets you, stay calm. Fits of anger should be banned from your workplace etiquette. Take time to breathe and cool down; then you'll be able to express your needs in a more civilized manner.

Greet your coworkers with a smile. You’ll see how contagious it is!