Don’t Do This at Work

Every job has its share of frustrations, and those frustrating moments typically have little to do with job responsibilities or technical issues.  Many of these office stress points are due to inappropriate behavior, dress, grooming or communication.  These aggravating situations often are the ‘elephant in the room’  that no-one is willing to address.

Here are some of the most common things people wish others would never do in the office.

1. Eat smelly food at their desk – or heat it in the office microwave.
2. Dominate shared resources – support staff, copy machines or meeting areas.
3. Use the speaker phone when on a call and the office door – if there is one – is open.
4. Wear a heavy fragrance.
5. Wear clothing meant for lounging at home or heading out for a date night.
6. Engage in emotional outbursts – tears, anger, excessive laughter.
7. Be late or unprepared for meetings.
8. Carry on a conversation that is loud or inappropriate in cubicles – sensitive business issues, off-color jokes, personal issues.
9. Drop by someone’s desk to visit.
10. Use an email to communicate information best delivered face-to-face.
11. Neglect personal grooming – body odor, bad breath, dirty hair.
12. Check mobile device for personal reasons during meetings.

While this is far from a comprehensive list, each of these issues demonstrates a lack of respect for those in the workplace. The truth is, every action of one, does impact others. A good question to always ask yourself is, “How does my behavior, choice of clothing, or style of communication, make others feel. Does it support a work environment that is pleasant and productive?”

Do you have something you wish people would quit doing at work? If so, please email your situation to .

©2015 What Would Mrs King Do? If you would like to use this article in your newsletter or blog, you may do so. Please include our credit information: Written by Deborah King, What Would Mrs King Do? © Copyright 2015. I would also appreciate it if you would send us a copy for our files to [email protected]. If you would like to learn more about social skills contact Final Touch Finishing School, Inc.