Decoding Office Etiquette & Proper Behavior

Office Etiquette and Then Some

Television Interview by Mellisa Paul of Sac&Co with Etiquette expert, Rebecca Black of Etiquette Now.

Basic Manners Rule!

Respect
Kindness
Consideration
Courtesy

Q: The word etiquette gets thrown around a lot, but what does the term encompass?

A: Etiquette is basically the "rules" society creates and expects as proper behavior.

Q: As an etiquette consultant, what do you find is the most frequent etiquette problem that people have?

A: The most frequent problem people tend to have is the "me" factor. They tend to forget that everything they do affects others. They want, they do, and they feel outraged when others are offended.

What should I wear? Is the most asked etiquette question.

Q: Why do you think people are so concerned with having the right etiquette?

A: Basically, people don't want to be embarrassed by being ignorant of the "rules". The French call this déclassé, which means the person is of no class or lower class because he/she doesn't know the social norms. Knowing what behavior is expected, proper etiquette, makes us feel more comfortable in all situations.

Q: Office etiquette is something that almost everyone has different ideas on, what is proper office etiquette?

A: We tend to think of office etiquette as a stuffy, strict set of rules. But for the most part, it is common sense. We treat all our customers (internal and external) well and fair. Also, our actions and appearance will be scrutinized greatly in the workplace, so we should consider how we wish to be viewed.

Q: What’s your favorite piece of advice to give people?

A: Always consider that everything we do affects others. And commit a random act of kindness (RAK) every day.

Q: Where can people find more information?

A: Read this or visit any of my other blogs for the most up-to-date advice.

More by Rebecca

How to Deal with Frustrating Breakroom Behavior

How to Deal With Irritating, Loud, Sick and Clueless Coworkers

Using Goals to Increase Production

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