Things You Need to Know

Business Etiquette

Making Nice

September 24, 2007

“Can you still give a compliment at work?” This was the question I received at the end of a presentation on gender and its impact on communications in the office. The person who asked the question continued, “It’s almost as if it has become too risky to tell someone he or she looks nice today. Rather than risk angering someone, I’ve just given up on complimenting someone’s appearance.”

I most certainly hope that we still can give compliments in the office. I further hope that we can demonstrate other small acts of kindness and civility. Opening doors for ladies, standing when someone enters an office, saying “good morning’ and “good night”—these are the social lubricants that can help workplaces operate smoothly.

Do compliment others at work. Let someone know when you think they have worn a lovely suit or attractive tie. At the same time, do also recognize the superlative quality of others’ work and the other contributions they make in your office.