Professionalism
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Bringing Civility to Work
January 19, 2011
Over the past ten days, lots of politicians and pundits have talked about bringing some civility back into our political discourse. By following some principles of business etiquette, interns, summer associates and new hires can help make the workplace more civil, too.
Following are five easy ways you can improve the environment at work:
1. Find opportunities to say “please” and “thank you.” No three words more quickly and easily distinguish a person as a class act. Some even describe them as “magic words,” because they can quickly enhance and improve relationships. Seek out opportunities to say, write and text these words. Instead of emailing your assistant, “Proof the attached document, then forward it to Bob,” take a little extra effort and write, “Please proof the attached memo, and then forward it to Bob. Thanks so much for helping me to make it perfect.”
2. Hold doors for others. It used to be that every gentleman rushed to hold a door for a lady. Today, everyone, ladies and gentlemen alike, should look for opportunities to hold doors for others. When you see someone approaching a doorway while balancing a stack of papers and a coffee cup, step-up and say, “Please, let me grab that door for you.”
3. Say “good morning” and “good night.” I know the feeling of being overwhelmed by projects, and heaven knows, I know what it’s like to work at a fast pace. However, long ago I learned that taking a few seconds to say “good morning” or “good night” to co-workers makes all the difference in the world. It helps us to connect, and people who are connected usually are more civil to one another.
4. Express your appreciation. Beyond saying “thank you,” acknowledge other’s contributions to your work effort. Every day I’m reminded how much my assistant does for me. It behooves me to express that: Holly, I owe at least some of my success to you! And don’t forget the people who have created job opportunities. The recession has reminded us that no one is entitled to a job. We should recognize those who make it possible for others to work.
5. Think about others first. Whether talking about civility or good old-fashioned manners, our success truly is related to the extent to which we think of others before ourselves. Everyone you encounter at work has a need to be valued and respected. Make sure you satisfy those needs. To the extent you do, not only will you create a more civil workplace, you will also develop one that is more productive and profitable.
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