Work etiquette is a code that governs the expectations of social behavior in a workplace. This code is put in place to respect and protect time, people, and processes.
As believers, God has called us to be His representatives in every place we find ourselves, workplace included. Therefore, our attitude towards work, and while at work matters.
Here are some workplace etiquette you should take note of:
1. You should not use endearing words at work, especially for people you don’t have a cordial relationship with
This applies generally, not only to believers.
When I started working in a particular place, my coworker addressed me as “babe”, and I began the journey to correct him because he was too used to it. You can’t be meeting me for the first time and calling me babe!
As believers, God has called us to be His representatives in every place we find ourselves, workplace included. Therefore, our attitude towards work, and while at work matters. Click To TweetAside from the fact that I’m not your babe, you don’t even know me at all, so we don’t have a relationship. It was just wrong. Major factors that should be considered in regards to this subject are personal preferences and culture i.e what is deemed acceptable in that space.
When it’s a professional setting, keep it as professional as can be, and respect people’s standards.
2. Be punctual and accountable
When it's a professional setting, keep it as professional as can be, and respect people's standards. Click To TweetAs believers, please don’t come late. Resumption time doesn’t exist for you to ignore. It’s irresponsible to make late coming a habit, give your work your best.
Show up, and if for any reason you’d be late or absent, it’s only proper that you inform the appropriate authorities.
3. Avoid unnecessary contact
Understand boundaries. Coworker is not automatically equal to a friend. Avoid rubbing and touching, don’t go about tickling coworkers. I believe everyone should be aware of this.
In addition to that, acknowledge people’s personal boundaries, and listen to them when they actually state the boundaries they have, don’t make statements like “…but I hug Tola and call her sugar, she doesn’t complain.”
4. Be respectful and courteous
Don’t respond to people harshly or rudely, and don’t abuse people, whoever they are. Similarly, You’re a believer with self control and kindness as fruits of the Spirit within you. Bullying, physical/verbal abuse should never be tolerated in a workplace. If you ever experience such, report to appropriate authorities, and don’t act in such a manner to others either.
Acknowledge people's personal boundaries, and listen to them when they actually state the boundaries they have. Click To Tweet5. Do your assigned job
Don’t be that person that always does an assigned task after the deadline, or always disappoints, or the person in a team that makes the team look bad. Be diligent, don’t be known to be lazy, always complaining or always.
Daniel in the Bible stood out for his wisdom and diligence, he served different kings well. No one would’ve wanted him if he didn’t do his job right or wasn’t considered an asset. Be someone that can be trusted to deliver when given a job to do.
6. Engaging in religious activities at work
Doing devotion during work hours is a wrong use of your employer’s time. Similarly, learn to be wise about separating work from church. Furthermore, don’t feel a need to subdue the fact that you’re a believer.
Be wise about it. You can invite your friends to your house or church but not during work hours except if your work permits it or you were asked a question.
Daniel in the Bible stood out for his wisdom and diligence, he served different kings well. No one would have wanted him if he didn't do his job right or wasn't considered an asset. Click To TweetFinally, love like Christ. Also, be a light amidst darkness so you can show the excellencies of God.
Do you have any more points to add about workplace etiquette, or experiences to share? We’d love to read from you in the comment section.
Enjoyed this article? You can also read “Representing God in the Workplace: 4 Things To Consider“.
