January 22nd , 2010 → 4:14 am @ Michael

Workplace etiquette, or rather the lack of it in the workplace, is one of the hot issues of the day. Every week without fail we are answering queries, being interviewed by press and developing courses for organisations throughout the country.
So what is workplace etiquette and why are we obsessed with getting it right? Wikipedia describes it as a code that governs the expectations of social behaviour in a workplace, in a group or a society. Work Etiquette tells the individual how to behave when dealing with situations in a working environment, however trivial the situation is. Office etiquette in particular applies to co-worker interaction and communication with fellow colleagues. It is the natural courtesy we extend to those with whom we work.
Many young people entering the professional workplace for the first time have never had the chance to develop good workplace etiquette skills.  University equips you well in terms of technical skills, but not so much with the practical skills of basic report writing, professional telephone manner or even how to shake hands properly.  Workplace etiquette is an even bigger issue for international students entering an Australian workplace for the first time, with different cultural customs coming into play as well.
That’s why we have developed a Workplace Etiquette training module especially for our interns to complete before their placement.  The module  covers topics like first impressions, professional conduct, communication and open plan office environments.  Completing the module helps interns to prepare for their placement and feel more comfortable and confident on their arrival, and ensures host organizations that the intern is ready to be a professional and productive team member.  The module is included in all of our internship programs.

Tags: Workplace Etiquette