Respect for others, kindness, generosity and common decency take little to no extra time or energy, yet nowadays those with these values seem to stand out like sore thumbs … oddities in our homes, our communities and, most certainly, in our workplaces.

Not everybody will agree on what constitutes rude behaviour in the workplace, but most people will agree that it’s rude for:

    • Someone to act as if he or she is the only employee in the office – making demands on everyone’s job
    • Co-workers to have a loud and raucous discussion while you are trying to work
    • People to feel it’s their God-given right to pester you anytime they want to
    • Peers to treat your tissue box as if it’s public domain
    • Someone to take credit for your suggestion or idea
    • People not to say “please” or “thank you”
    • Your boss or cohorts not to deem it necessary to give compliments, even when your task has been above the call of duty
    • Someone to know he or she has body odour but not do anything about it
    • Someone not to open the door for you when you have your hands full.

Experts suggest that rudeness reflects a lack of respect for peers or a lack of understanding about what are acceptable manners in the workplace. This can lead to a lack of work enthusiasm and ebbing loyalty to your company, your co-workers, or even to your chosen career. An acceptable code of conduct needs to be established, and avoidance is definitely not the solution.

Root out rudeness at work

No one deserves to be treated rudely.

    • Notice your reaction to blatant rudeness and start setting an example of respectful behaviour
    • Set boundaries for yourself; request individuals to please respect your business acumen at work
    • Discuss the professional demeanour that is expected in your department or organisation, and start stamping out unacceptable behaviour without damaging relationships. You will begin to notice how the morale shifts – respectful behaviour is catchy.