Folks are returning to in-person work, so it seems appropriate to offer a brief primer in basic cubicle etiquette. Cubicles are home away from home during the work week; employees need to be comfortable, get their work done, and have a modicum of privacy. For cubicles to be professional and friendly, familiarize your office crew follow these basic etiquette guidelines:
Knock First
We know; cubicles don’t have doors. But the lack of an official entrance doesn’t mean a cubicle isn’t a private space. Knocking on the wall or “door” frame or even simply saying, “hello! Do you have a moment?” shows respect for the occupant. It also gives them the opportunity to say, “now’s not a great time,” if they’re in the middle of something and can’t manage an interruption.
The lack of a door doesn’t equate to an open door. Distractions kill productivity, so be respectful and ask prior to coming in, sitting down, or starting a chat.
Keep it Down
Cubicles muffle sound, but they don’t block it completely. If it’s going on in your cubicle, your neighbors can probably hear it. Keep the volume on your music or podcasts down, and don’t use a speakerphone; if you want to talk hands-free, use headphones or a headset.
Along the same lines, don’t shout at other coworkers across open cubicles. Walk over and talk in person. And keep the volume of your conversation down, being mindful that others around you may be concentrating or trying to have important conversations of their own. If you’ve got a great story to tell, maybe take it to the break room so it can be properly enjoyed.
Smells Travel Over and Around
Your neighbors can smell your leftover tuna. They can probably also smell your new hand lotion. Be a good neighbor and keep your smells to a minimum.
The Golden Rule
The Golden Rule applies to life in a cubicle; do unto others as you want them to do to you. Or don’t do to others what you don’t want to have done to you. You get the idea. Etiquette is all about helping the people around you feel comfortable, and office cubicle etiquette is no exception. Asking before entering, keeping your voice and other sounds down, and staying mindful of strong smells will help everyone in your cubicle neighborhood feel respected and stay productive.
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