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Bring Your Manners To Work Day
Explore the significance of ‘Bring Your Manners to Work Day’ and its impact on the professional world. Dive into workplace etiquette, the history of the day, and the lasting benefits of fostering a culture of respect and courtesy in the workplace
Table of Contents
Introduction to Bring Your Manners To Work Day
A day dedicated to promoting professionalism, respect, and courtesy in the workplace environment, “Bring Your Manners to Work Day” emphasizes the small gestures that can make a big difference. Whether it’s a simple “please” or “thank you,” acknowledging a colleague’s hard work, or being punctual for meetings, these acts of courtesy contribute to a positive workplace culture.
Delving into the History
History of Bring Your Manners to Work Day
The concept of manners isn’t new, but dedicating a day to emphasize their importance in the workplace is a relatively recent initiative. The day serves as a reminder that while skills and expertise are essential, the way we interact with colleagues, superiors, and subordinates plays a crucial role in professional success. It’s a day to reflect on our behavior and interactions, ensuring they align with the principles of mutual respect and understanding.
Founded by The Protocol School of Washington (PSOW) in 2013
The Protocol School of Washington, renowned for its commitment to enhancing professional behaviors through etiquette and protocol training, was the driving force behind this initiative. Recognizing a gap in workplace interactions and the need to address it, PSOW established “Bring Your Manners to Work Day.” Their goal was to create an annual reminder for professionals worldwide to practice and value good manners.
Observed on the first Friday in September (since 2013)
Consistency is key when establishing a tradition. Since its inception in 2013, “Bring Your Manners to Work Day” has been observed on the first Friday of September. This timing serves as a precursor to the International Month of Courtesy in October, ensuring that the message of professionalism and courtesy remains at the forefront for an extended period
Celebrating Manners in the Workplace
In a world where workplaces are evolving rapidly, the essence of good manners remains a constant. Celebrating these manners goes beyond just one day; it’s about creating a culture of respect and understanding. Here’s how we can emphasize and celebrate manners in our daily professional lives:
Set Workplace Standards
Every organization, irrespective of its size or domain, should have a clear set of behavioral standards. These standards serve as a roadmap for employees, guiding them on acceptable behaviors and interactions. By setting a benchmark for behavior, organizations can ensure that every interaction, whether it’s between colleagues or with clients, is rooted in respect and understanding. Regular workshops and training sessions can further reinforce these standards, ensuring that they are ingrained in the company’s culture.
Practice Online Work Etiquette
The digital transformation has changed the way we work, making online interactions as frequent, if not more so, than face-to-face ones. This shift makes online etiquette paramount.
Choose a Clean Background
Virtual meetings have become the norm, and while they offer flexibility, they also come with their own set of challenges. One of the primary considerations is the background. A clean, distraction-free background ensures that the focus remains on the discussion and not on what’s behind you. Whether it’s a tidy room or a virtual backdrop, ensuring a professional background is crucial.
Don’t Multitask
It’s easy to fall into the trap of multitasking during virtual meetings, thinking that no one will notice. However, not only is it evident when someone is not fully present, but it’s also disrespectful to the other participants. Being present and attentive not only shows respect but also ensures that you’re fully engaged in the discussion.
Check video and audio
Technical glitches can disrupt the flow of a meeting and lead to miscommunications. Before joining any virtual interaction, it’s essential to check your video and audio settings. This simple step can save time and prevent potential misunderstandings.
Share on Social Media
Social media platforms offer a unique opportunity to spread awareness about “Bring Your Manners to Work Day.” Sharing tips, personal experiences, and even challenges related to workplace etiquette can foster a larger community discussion. Using the hashtag #BringYourMannersToWorkDay can also help in creating a unified conversation around the topic.
Watch Some Silly Workplace Comedies
Sometimes, humor is the best teacher. Watching workplace comedies, where everything that can go wrong does, offers a unique perspective. While these shows often exaggerate for comedic effect, they also highlight the importance of good manners in a fun and relatable way. So, grab some popcorn and enjoy a few episodes of your favorite workplace comedy, all in the name of research!
The Do’s and Don’ts: Workplace Etiquette
Navigating the professional world requires more than just expertise in a particular field. The way we interact with colleagues, superiors, and clients plays a pivotal role in shaping our professional journey. Here’s a look at some of the manners to uphold and pitfalls to avoid.
5 Bad Manners To Avoid At The Workplace
While the list of workplace etiquettes is extensive, here are five common pitfalls that every professional should be wary of:
- Speaking loudly: A loud conversation can be distracting. Always be mindful of your volume, especially in open office spaces.
- Being late: Consistent tardiness not only reflects poorly on you but also disrupts others. Always aim to be punctual.
- Leaving a mess: Whether it’s the pantry, the meeting room, or your own desk, always clean up after yourself.
- Not putting your phone on silent: During meetings, a ringing phone can be a significant distraction. Always remember to put it on silent.
- Borrowing without asking: Whether it’s a charger, a pen, or even someone’s lunch, always ask before you take.
Why We Love Bring Your Manners To Work Day
This day isn’t just about highlighting good manners; it’s a celebration of the positive work environment that these manners foster. Good manners lead to better communication, increased respect among colleagues, and a more collaborative work setting. It’s a day that reminds us that in the professional world, how we say something is just as important as what we say.
10 Mind-blowing Facts about Workplace Manners
| Fact Number | Fact |
|---|---|
| 1 | Over 70% of employers value soft skills, like manners, as much as hard skills. |
| 2 | A simple “thank you” can increase job satisfaction by 50%. |
| 3 | Employees with good manners are 35% more likely to get promotions. |
| 4 | Workplace conflicts due to bad manners cost companies millions annually. |
| 5 | Over 60% of HR managers have rejected candidates due to bad manners. |
| 6 | Proper email etiquette can increase response rates by up to 30%. |
| 7 | Teams with courteous members have a 40% higher retention rate. |
| 8 | Over 80% of people admit to being passive-aggressive in emails. |
| 9 | A handshake can make or break a deal; it’s that impactful. |
| 10 | Good manners reduce workplace stress by up to 20%. |
FAQs: All You Need to Know
- When is Bring Your Manners to Work Day celebrated? Celebrated on the first Friday of September every year.
- Why was this day initiated? To emphasize the importance of good manners in the professional world and foster a positive work environment.
- How can one effectively practice good manners at work? By being mindful of one’s interactions, being respectful, and adhering to workplace standards.
- What’s the significance of online etiquette in today’s remote working era? With the rise of virtual interactions, online etiquette ensures clear communication and respect in the digital realm.
- Are there any workshops or courses on workplace manners? Yes, many institutions, including The Protocol School of Washington, offer courses on workplace etiquette.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Good Manners
Celebrate and Reflect
“Bring Your Manners to Work Day” is more than just a day; it’s a philosophy. As we celebrate, let’s also take a moment to reflect on our interactions and behaviors. Let’s aim for continuous improvement, ensuring that our professional journey is not only successful but also respectful. After all, in the grand tapestry of our careers, it’s the threads of good manners and mutual respect that make the most vibrant patterns.
