How To Encourage Workplace Etiquette in Employees

Workplace etiquette can have a great impact on the atmosphere of a workplace. A workplace where employees have poor etiquette can create a negative environment where employees are always in conflict with each other and productivity is low. A workplace where employees practice good etiquette can be a place where employees thrive professionally.

1. Learn the ins and outs of workplace etiquette. You need to know exactly what workplace etiquette is if you are going to expect your employees to practice it.  Workplace etiquette is a set of rules that employees are expected to follow where their behavior conveys respect towards others and the work of the workplace. You need to decide on what rules you think are important and will aid you in creating a more positive environment. You can use your common sense and speak to other managers to help you decide what rules you want to uphold.

2. Set an example. You will need to follow these rules of workplace etiquette yourself or your employees will never follow them. You are an example to your employees and you need to treat them with respect so they will learn to treat you and their co-workers with respect.
3. Inform your employees of the changes. If you are implementing changes in workplace etiquette, you need to inform your employees of the new workplace etiquette rules.  You can do this in a couple of different ways. You can hold a meeting or put out a memo on the new rules. You can elect to do this more casually by making sure you talk to each employee about the new etiquette rules. Most important, try to approach your employees with positive expectations.  Be open to feedback and the possibility of making some adjustments to the new rules as a result of that feedback.
4. Help resolve conflict. After your employees are aware of the changes and you have conflict situations, they need to be addressed immediately. You need to explain to your employees the importance of workplace etiquette and why it will benefit everyone. During each situation, explain to the employees involved what the proper way to handle the situation would have been.  Do this in as non-judgmental of a way as possible.
5. If it's a bumpy road. If your new workplace etiquette rules aren't a hit around the office, then you may need to give them some additional time or reiterate to employees the importance of workplace etiquette. There are also additional resources such as the book, Business Etiquette for Dummies by Sue Fox. Be sure to share your resources with your employees.

You may experience resistance when encouraging workplace etiquette to your employees but they will thank you once these rules are enforced. The workplace will now be a place where everyone feels welcome and productive.