A Little Courtesy, Please

Jan. 13, 2005
Compiled By Dave Schafer There is less courtesy in the workplace than there was five years ago, say nearly half of respondents in a new survey developed by staffing services firm OfficeTeam. According to the Menlo Park, Calif.-based company, the ...
Compiled ByDave Schafer There is less courtesy in the workplace than there was five years ago, say nearly half of respondents in a new survey developed by staffing services firm OfficeTeam. According to the Menlo Park, Calif.-based company, the survey includes responses from 525 men and women employed full-time in professional environments. Respondents were asked, "Do you think the level of professional courtesy in the workplace has increased or decreased over the last five years?" Of the respondents, 44% say courtesy has decreased, while 36% say it has increased. "In today's fast-paced business environment, it's not unusual for people to pay less attention to matters of workplace etiquette and protocol," says Liz Hubler, executive director, OfficeTeam. "But time spent showing consideration for others is a smart career investment. People have long memories when it comes to how you treat them; the courtesy you extend will be noticed and reciprocated." Hubler offers tips for being more courteous to fellow workers:
  • Never assume a co-worker is less busy than you are. Show respect by sticking to project deadlines, returning messages promptly, and arriving on time to meetings.
  • Don't inconvenience others by leaving last week's leftovers in the office refrigerator or paper jammed in the copier.
  • Remember to say "please" and "thank you," even in brief e-mails. If you sense a problem or have bad news to deliver, don't play phone tag -- meet in person.
  • Be sensitive to your co-workers' need for privacy. Knock before entering anyone's workspace.
  • Always let your manager know when you've received help on a project and be sure to praise your colleagues on job well done.

Popular Sponsored Recommendations

How to Build Zero-Cost On-Site Solar and Storage Projects

Nov. 25, 2023
The Inflation Reduction Act offers tax credits, incentives, and financing that enable no-cost projects. In Enel’s eBook, discover the critical role that incentives play in your...

Ecommerce Guide: How to Manage Order Volume Spikes

Oct. 2, 2023
Master the art of delivering a seamless ecommerce shopping experience! Learn how to streamline your operations to successfully manage seasonal sales order spikes.

7 Crucial Steps to Improve Your OT Security

Oct. 23, 2023
Enhance OT security in manufacturing and production. Uncover the crucial steps to safeguard your operational technology. Protect against evolving threats and bridge the IT-OT ...

Digitally Transforming Data and Processes With Product Lifecycle Management

Oct. 29, 2023
Manufacturers face increasing challenges in product development as they strive to consistently deliver improved results. Discover how industry leaders are improving time-to-market...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of IndustryWeek, create an account today!