Discover 10 simple workplace etiquette tips to build trust, improve relationships, and stand out in the office.
Hey there,
Is it just me, or does it feel like the remote/hybrid work era is slowly slipping away? Just last week, three of my friends were told their offices are fully reopening, with everyone expected to be on-site every weekday—so it’s goodbye, two- or three-day flex schedules. It’s a big shift; honestly, I’m unsure how to feel about it. What do you think?
One thing’s for sure: it’s bound to shake things up (in-office employees are 24% more likely to be promoted than those working remotely). This suggests that as we transition back to the office, face-to-face engagement may lead to more significant opportunities for advancement.
But, spending more time in the office means everyone will need to re-learn how to navigate workplace relationships, especially in a post-pandemic world. The unspoken rules of office culture can feel a little… fuzzy. However, thriving in this “back-to-office” era hinges on how well you connect with your colleagues.
The good news? Standing out as the coworker everyone respects and trusts isn’t rocket science. It just takes a few thoughtful tweaks to how you show up and interact.
That’s why we’ve put together 10 simple workplace etiquette tips that’ll help you build stronger relationships, earn respect, and make your office days (dare we say?) enjoyable. Ready to thrive?
But first, ever heard of the ambiguity effect? It might be stopping you from unlocking career and life-changing opportunities. More on that after these quick office tips.
10 Workplace Etiquette Tips to Be the Most Likable Person in the Office
1️⃣ Your calls = your business. Keep them private.
Nobody needs to hear about your weekend plans or dentist appointment. Step into a private space for those chats.
2️⃣ Need to escape a convo? Play the matchmaker.
Stuck in small talk? Introduce your chat partner to someone new with, “Have you met [Name]? They’re awesome.” Seamless and polite.
3️⃣ Write emails that don’t stress people out.
Use the GROW framework: Goal, Reality, Options, and What’s next. Clear, concise, and action-oriented emails save everyone’s time.
4️⃣ Inside voice, always.
Even if it’s an important call, keep it low. No one wants an accidental eavesdrop.
5️⃣ Lunch is not a desk decoration.
Finished eating? Clean it up. A fresh desk = a fresh mind.
6️⃣ Reply to emails within 24 hours.
A quick response says, “I value your time.” It’s one of the easiest ways to build trust and reliability.
7️⃣ Pop into happy hours.
Even if you’re not the social butterfly type, showing up (even briefly) shows you care. 30 minutes won’t hurt.
8️⃣ Stop broadcasting your stress.
Bragging about your busy schedule doesn’t win points. It just makes you look unorganized.
9️⃣ Give shoutouts often.
A kind email, a thoughtful compliment, or recognizing milestones can brighten someone’s day. It also goes a long way in building goodwill.
🔟 Don’t work-talk at happy hour.
Leave deadlines and project updates at the door. Use this time to connect on a personal level.
Spotlight Story: Are You Letting Fear Hold You Back?
Imagine this: You have two job offers on the table. One has clear pay, benefits, and a predictable career path. The other? It’s a wild-card startup—big risks, bigger potential rewards. Which one are you picking?
Most people go for the safer bet. It’s called the ambiguity effect—our brain’s way of avoiding the unknown.
But here’s the catch: sticking to “safe” can cost you huge opportunities.
Want to learn how to break free from this bias and make smarter choices? Dive into our latest article here.
👉 Overcome the Ambiguity Effect Now
Off-Topic…
🎵 Ever Wondered How Much Money Mariah Carey Makes From “All I Want For Christmas Is You”?
I have! Every year, the internet always talks about her getting that annual bag from the iconic festive soundtrack— and I’ve finally found out just how much she rakes in. Summary for the lazy: it’s A LOT!
- Lifetime Earnings: The song has reportedly generated $103 million globally since its release.
- Annual Revenue: Experts estimate it rakes in $2 million to $4 million each year.
- 2022 Paycheck: Mariah earned between $2.7 million and $3.3 million from streaming, downloads, and publishing rights alone.
Carey’s triple threat as the performer, co-writer, and co-producer means she takes home a bigger slice of the royalties. And with copyright laws keeping the song protected for decades, it’s the gift that will keep on giving.
Your Move:
Put these tips to the test this week. Try introducing a colleague to someone new or leaving your desk spotless at the end of the day. Small changes lead to big impressions. And if you’re wrestling with a decision at work, take a moment to reflect on the ambiguity effect—what opportunity might you unlock by embracing the unknown?
ICYMI, last time we looked at how to get more leave days at work.
Stay sharp,
Dami from SimplVest 🚀 🚀 🚀
