Cubicle Etiquette 101

Call Today

Imagine your cubicle as your personal office fortress. It’s your workspace, your little corner of the world. But remember, you’re not alone in this layout. There are other coworkers nearby, and they might have strong feelings about things like noise, smells, and personal space. 

To keep the peace and avoid any cubicle catastrophes, let’s dive into some essential etiquette dos and don’ts. These rules will help you be a good cubicle neighbor and create a harmonious office environment where everyone can thrive. 

Maintain Cleanliness and Organization
Cluttered and untidy workspaces can lead to increased stress and decreased productivity, not only for the individual but also for those nearby. Cleaning and decluttering can do wonders for your mind and body. It can make you feel happier, get you moving, improve concentration, and give you a sense of control over your space. Encouraging regular decluttering and maintenance of personal spaces can help reduce stress and create a more pleasant atmosphere. Employees should also manage their cables and wires effectively to prevent tripping hazards and contribute to a neat, organized shared area. 

Prioritize Health and Hygiene
Germs can spread quickly in an office. If you’re feeling sick, it’s important to stay home to avoid spreading germs to your coworkers. And make sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose or coughing. Wipe down your desk and keyboard regularly and avoid sharing personal items like pens or staplers. 

Honor Personal Space and Boundaries
Cubicles aren’t as private as traditional offices, so it’s important to respect your colleagues’ personal space. Everyone has their own comfort zone, so be mindful of how close you stand to others. Avoid hovering over people or touching their belongings without first asking for permission. If you need to talk to someone, instant message them first or wait until they’re free and approach them politely. 

Personalize Without Invading Space
While it’s important to respect your colleagues’ personal space, adding some personal touches to your cubicle can make it feel more like your own. You can pin up photos, your kids’ artwork, or anything else that makes you happy. Just make sure your decorations don’t spill over into other people’s cubicles or make anyone feel uncomfortable.  

Facilitate Communication and Trust
To avoid misunderstandings and gossip, companies should encourage everyone to be open and honest with each other. Employees should talk to their coworkers or bosses directly if they have a problem, instead of talking about it behind their backs. If people have clear information, they’re less likely to spread rumors.  

Minimize Noise Pollution
Please be mindful of the noise you generate in your workspace. Avoid loud phone conversations or excessive noise from your keyboard or mouse. Even though Screenflex cubicles have noise-reducing panels, it’s important to be considerate of your colleagues. If you need to have a conversation, consider moving to a quieter area, such as a conference room. Companies can also add Haven Acoustic Wall Panels to help increase sound absorption throughout the office.
 

If you prefer to listen to music while you work, please use headphones and keep the volume at a reasonable level. Your colleagues may not appreciate your personal rock ‘n’ roll playlist, so it’s best to keep it private. 

Be Aware of Olfactory Impact
Let’s be mindful of strong scents. Avoid wearing heavy perfumes or colognes. And let’s try to keep food odors at bay. If you’re enjoying a delicious meal, consider eating in a designated area outside your cubicle. Food smells can easily spread and bother your colleagues. Also, let’s discourage storing leftovers or open food in desk drawers, which can attract unwanted pests and mold. 

Encourage Breaks and Ergonomic Practices
Sitting in a cubicle all day can be bad for your health. Companies should encourage employees to take breaks and move around. A good rule is to take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something far away. Having adjustable chairs and encouraging movement can help employees feel better and work more productively. 

Thrive In Your Workspace 

By adhering to these principles of cubicle etiquette, employers and employees can create a more pleasant and productive work environment. It’s essential to balance the need for privacy and concentration with collaboration and social interaction, ensuring that the workplace supports the well-being of all individuals while fostering a positive corporate culture. 

If you need help upgrading your workspace with Officeflex Cubicles or Haven Acoustic Wall Panels, our experts can help.