Appropriate workplace conduct is important and can be determined by various entities. Employers often address inappropriate behavior in employee handbooks and contracts, with consequences such as written notices, overlooked promotions, or dismissal. Improper conduct can negatively impact the employer and other employees.
Appropriate workplace conduct refers to actions and behaviors that are acceptable in a workplace. The effects of inappropriate behavior may be limited to the person exhibiting it or it may reach further and negatively impact the employer. There are generally consequences that can be imposed on people who act inappropriately in the workplace. While each act may be unspecified, etiquette both proper and improper, they are commonly addressed in employee handbooks or contracts along with the procedure for handling violations.
Many people understand that there are things that need to be done at work and there are things that shouldn’t be done. While much of workplace etiquette is a matter of common sense, employers still tend to address inappropriate behavior in employee handbooks and contracts. Such articles often include appearance regulations such as not wearing sexually provocative clothing, wearing facial piercings, or wearing clothing that displays offensive images or writing. Behaviors such as using profanity, physical confrontations, and attempting to steal customers are also commonly prohibited.
What is considered appropriate workplace behavior can be determined by a number of entities including government, professional associations and business owners. The government tends to limit its involvement in these affairs to issues that could potentially be harmful to society, such as workplace discrimination or consumer fraud protection. Professional associations can help contribute to a degree of consistency in conducting standards by outlining the factors that influence professionalism.
The ability of individuals to determine which workplace etiquette is appropriate often leads to workplace conduct that is appropriate in one setting that is viewed differently in another setting. For example, a large commercial bank may find it inappropriate for employees to dress casually or address customers by their first name. A local bank may find that casual dress and first name interaction is beneficial to the business.
Improper workplace conduct issues are usually handled by supervisors or managers. There are several consequences that a person who exhibits inappropriate behavior in the workplace can be subjected to. These include written notices, overlooked for promotions and dismissal.
The actions of individuals who act inappropriately can also impact other employees. Increasing attention is being paid, for example, to people creating hostile working environments. Inappropriate workplace conduct, when disclosed to clients, can also result in loss of business or lawsuits.
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