October 15th 2018
We all know there are basic rules when it comes to office life.
Punctuality, being respectful to others and not surfing the internet all day are just a few of the most obvious. General rules like these usually addressed in a company’s employee handbook or policies and guidelines, in case you weren’t already aware.
But there are also plenty of unwritten rules in all organisations, and every company has its own unique culture. You might work in a highly sociable environment with frequent staff nights out or alternatively one where people tend to keep their outside life very separate. Perhaps you work in a formal environment where a highly polished look is expected or a more casual and creative workplace where you can rock up with your own unique style.
Wherever and however you work though, there are a number of faux pas when it comes to your neighbouring deskmates you should always avoid. That is, at least if you want your colleagues not to hate you. That’s why we’ve created a little rulebook of desk etiquette with the help of Twitter below.
Avoid strong-smelling foods
Don’t get us wrong: If you fancy a cheeky curry or a meatball sub on your lunchbreak, that is entirely your prerogative. But be aware that bringing strong-smelling food back to your desk is definitely going to annoy anyone within ten feet of you. Best to stay put wherever you bought it, where you’ll be able to enjoy it to the full instead of squirming with embarrassment. This one is a key commandment in the bible of desk etiquette.
Watch your headphone volume
There’s nothing wrong with a bit of musical motivation to help you through a tedious task. Just be mindful that whatever you’re listening to isn’t spilling out of the tinny earphones you may or may not have bought for €1 in Penneys. Not everyone likes to hear Pitbull songs on a loop. This is a cardinal sin when it comes to desk etiquette and you won’t be graduating from office finishing school anytime soon if you commit it.
Respect people’s personal space
This not only refers to the invisible boundaries of your side of the desk, but to respecting people’s mental space too. If you notice that your colleague is concentrating, looks busy or is ‘in the zone’, don’t take this as a cue to start talking about a recent meeting or showing them the 208 photos you took of the family holiday in Portugal. According to our recent Twitter poll, ‘chatting nonstop’ is actually the most annoying thing you can inflict on your neighbouring deskmate.
Don’t make personal calls
There’s nothing worse than listening to someone having a personal conversation at work. No one wants to hear about your Friday night dinner plans, what colour you’re planning on painting the landing or what you think Auntie Marie might like from Arnotts for Christmas. Trust me: No one.
Hygiene matters
This one goes without saying, but biting your fingernails or other unpleasant habits are not something your colleagues want to witness. Coughing or sneezing on someone is also a bit of a no-no: If you’re stick, stay at home. Also everyone’s least favourite colleague is the one that doesn’t flush the office toilet. Don’t be that grimy individual.
