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Courtesy In The Workplace--"Can You Say,
Thank You?"
By Althea DeBrule
”Thank You” is such a beautiful phrase. When you say, thank you, it makes a
world of difference. Recent research suggests that discourtesy in the
workplace is rapidly becoming an increasing dilemma for businesses and
organizations. Workplace incivility is growing, including an increase in bad
manners, rudeness, coarseness, vulgarity, and a lack of respect.
In 1999, researchers Pearson, Andersson, and Porath at The University of
North Carolina Business School determined that incivility in the workplace
can impact company profits due to lost productivity and employee turnover.
Their studies indicated the significance of this impact as follows: people
who experience rude behavior on the job quit their jobs (12%), lose work
time (52%), and deliberately decrease their work effort (22%). However the
most disturbing result was that over 78% of those surveyed said that this
kind of behavior has worsened in the past decade.
Why Say, “Thank You?”
It demonstrates that you value courtesy and good manners. Saying thank you
for something you have received, no matter how small is a great way to
communicate. It shows understanding and encourages a positive reception and
acceptance.
It promotes good health and a successful lifestyle. Extending common
courtesy to others demonstrates maturity and a healthy self-esteem.
It is fundamental to strong interpersonal relationships and in building
rapport. It really doesn’t take much to be cordial to others by saying
please and thank you as you carry out business and job responsibilities.
How to Form a Thank You Habit
Learn and practice proper work etiquette. Get back to basics and focus on
how you can make your workplace a more pleasant environment for all—bosses,
workers, and customers. Acknowledge in some way each person you meet even if
it is only with eye contact, a nod or smile.
Concentrate on creating pleasant and agreeable experiences for everyone who
interacts with you. Be gracious and considerate. Watch for uncivil behavior.
Every day you are presented with situations that allow you to show common
courtesy and consideration to others. Be proactive and take advantage of
every opportunity to be cordial.
Minimize any “It’s-All-About-Me” tendencies. Instead “Do unto Others as You
Would Have Them Do Unto You” by displaying empathy and finding opportunities
to increase your connection. Remember how it feels when someone insults you
or is rude to you. Think about what you can do to improve civility in your
work unit, team or department. Then, just do it!
Be sincere and genuine. Your efforts must be honest and heartfelt. Being
courteous comes not from your head but from your heart. If your actions do
not match your words, then your efforts will be in vain.
Never underestimate the power of a Thank You! Take time to acknowledge and
extend courtesy to someone today!
About the author:
Althea DeBrule, entrepreneur & seasoned human resources executive, has
helped people achieve their career goals for more than 30 years. She is
recognized for her bottom line and practical application of career
transition & development strategies in a way that compels action. To
discover how Althea can help you take your career to a new level, visit
http://www.extreme-career-makeover.com/
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Karen Porter, The Administrative Professional Job Performance and Career Success Coach™