Professionalism and ethical behavior in the workplace can benefit your career and improve your working environment. Understanding examples of professional and ethical behavior can help you to develop your own effective work habits. Be conscious of how you treat co-workers and your workplace attitude and you can improve your productivity and effectiveness.
Meetings:
Business meetings are regular occurrences in the corporate world, and by following meeting etiquette you can improve your professional image. Be prepared to contribute to the meeting by reviewing the agenda in advance and arrive on time. Recognize each speaker that has the floor and do not try to talk over someone else. Be respectful of the meeting chairperson and follow the format of the meeting, which would include using the proper times to ask questions.
Communication:
Ethical treatment of your co-workers and managers means being respectful of the need for efficient and accurate communication. Follow the instructions on company memos and ask questions only after you have thoroughly read the information. Asking questions about information that is clearly marked on company correspondence is unprofessional and presents the image of someone who does not follow instructions. Refrain from repeating office gossip, as helping to spread false or demeaning information regarding a co-worker is considered unethical.
Time Management:
Be early to work so that you can settle into your job duties, say hello to co-workers and get coffee before your shift is scheduled to start. Follow the lunch and break schedules by leaving when you are scheduled and returning on time. Check out and in when you leave for breaks and lunch.
Employee Safety:
It is the responsibility of each employee to report suspicious people in the office or misconduct committed by company employees. Company policies are designed to create a safe workplace. By reporting violations of company policy, you are doing your part to maintain a high standard of ethics in your office that will keep employees and visitors safe. For example, fire exits that are not properly maintained should be reported immediately for repair. Employees that do not follow the regulations in regard to proper disposal of cigarettes in the break area could be causing a fire hazard and that should be brought to the attention of management.
