The top office faux pas to avoid in the workplace
Office faux pas are part and parcel of working life. Everyone slips up now and then – nobody’s perfect. That said, being aware of how our behaviour affects others can go a long way towards creating a more respectful and enjoyable environment for everyone.
Whether you’re new to the workplace or a seasoned pro, there’s always room to reflect on the habits we bring into the office. Is it time to ditch a few bad ones, or are you flying under the radar just fine?
Here are some classic office faux pas worth avoiding:
- Food offences: Bringing in pungent food might be a quick way to become infamous in the office kitchen. From microwaving leftover fish to abandoning a smelly cheese over the festive break, these are sensory assaults best left at home. Many workplaces now discourage strong-smelling foods entirely – for good reason
- Office parties: End-of-year dos are great for unwinding, but it’s best not to use them as a chance to air personal grievances. Keep it light, stick to the prosecco, and save the dance moves for the dance floor – not the HR department. No one wants to start January with regrets
- Stationery scavenging: While the odd borrowed pen might go unnoticed, consistently “borrowing” from communal supplies can earn you a reputation. Respect the shared space – and supplies
- Chair tampering: Adjusting someone else’s perfectly set-up office chair might seem harmless, but for those with ergonomic preferences, it’s sacrilege.
- Sign blindness: Accidentally walking into the wrong toilets is awkward enough – bumping into your manager on the way out makes it unforgettable. A quick check of the sign could save a lot of red faces
Office faux pas may be embarrassing, but they’re also a shared experience – most of us have committed at least a few. So, if you’ve ever forgotten to offer the team a tea round or used someone’s favourite mug, don’t worry – you’re in good company.
Got your own tales of office faux pas? We’d love to hear them.
