Workplace etiquette isn’t just about being polite — it could also play a significant role in your career trajectory.
A recent survey by Monster reveals that workplace etiquette — or the lack thereof — could be a major factor in employees’ decisions to stay or leave their jobs. Furthermore, the survey highlights that poor manners in the workplace can have a direct impact on how coworkers perceive you, which in turn affects opportunities for collaboration, promotion, and overall career growth.
According to the survey, 69% of workers said they would consider quitting if their employer didn’t have policies in place to promote proper workplace manners.
The survey also identified the most common rude behaviors employees experience at work. Topping the list is not cleaning up after oneself.
The rudest workplace behaviors identified by employees include:
- Not cleaning up after oneself (88%)
- Gossiping (81%)
- Using inappropriate language (78%)
- Being unresponsive to messages (77%)
- Consistently being late to meetings (76%)
The impact of poor manners goes beyond just irritation. According to the survey, colleagues tend to think less of employees who don’t follow proper workplace etiquette.
A quarter (24%) of workers said they think less highly of individuals who display rude behaviors, and nearly the same amount (23%) are less likely to collaborate with them.
Colleagues’ perception of those who don’t follow proper workplace etiquette is negatively impacted:
- 24% think less highly of them.
- 23% are less likely to collaborate with them.
- 18% actively try to avoid them.
- 17% are less likely to recommend them for a promotion or raise.
Interestingly, despite many employees highlighting the importance of manners at work, about one-third (31%) of workers feel their workplace doesn’t foster a respectful environment where manners are prioritized.
When it comes to which behaviors matter most, respectful communication took the top spot, with 50% of workers saying it’s the most important workplace etiquette.
The most important workplace manners according to workers:
- Respectful communication (50%)
- Punctuality (14%)
- Professional dress (2%)
The survey’s findings send a powerful message to employers and employees: creating a workplace culture that emphasizes manners and etiquette is not only the right thing to do but can also lead to increased employee retention and satisfaction.
Many workplaces are enforcing policies that focus on:
- Respectful communication (61%)
- Punctuality (51%)
- Workspace cleanliness (40%)
- Professional dress code (37%)
As we continue to work in continuously collaborative and competitive work environments, how you conduct yourself matters just as much as what you accomplish.
Inappropriate workplace behavior can subtly damage your reputation and limit your career advancement opportunities. Therefore, practicing respectful communication and professionalism is essential for long-term success.
