Cubicle etiquette is a set of unwritten rules that exist in the workplace. Cubicle etiquette guidelines should be adhered to by both workers in the cubicle and people in adjoining work spaces. Many employees can get very disgruntled if these guidelines are not respected. One of the main factors in cubicle etiquette is privacy.

Although employees are usually part of a larger workplace, they sometimes regard their cubicle as their own office. For all intents and purposes, the cubicle should be viewed as an individual’s office. When entering, do not just barge in and begin talking; the employee may be concentrating on something important. Stand at the entrance to the cubicle and make your presence known until the worker is able to talk.

Privacy should also take noise levels into account. The rules of cubicle etiquette exist in order to make the workplace a harmonious place. While talking on the phone, keep conversation volume to a normal level. No one likes to hear constant chattering or high pitched laughing. Just because you are in a cubicle does not mean that sound will not travel to surrounding areas. Remember this before employing the use of a speakerphone.

Confidentiality should also be taken into account as part of cubicle etiquette. Thin cubicle walls will not prevent people from hearing client discussions. This should be remembered when talking on the phone or discussing confidential client information in person. If a conversation or meeting is confidential, it may be more appropriate to conduct it in a private office.

One rule of cubicle etiquette that most irritates people if it is broken is that of odors. Eating strong smelling food in a cubicle can be very off putting to other workers. People may also be put off by visiting a cubicle that constantly smells of a certain food. If smoking is allowed, then the same rule should be applied.

Keeping a cubicle clean and tidy is another facet of cubicle etiquette. A disorganized cubicle can reflect poorly on the employee’s level of professionalism. Space in a cubicle is usually limited, and covering every possible inch with personal items may not gain any merit points from an employer who visits.

Although cubicle etiquette covers the rule of privacy, it is a good idea to get out of the cubicle now and again. Work colleagues should not feel apprehensive when approaching another cubicle. Keeping a fine balance between privacy and accessibility will improve relations with colleagues. If cubicle etiquette is respected, the workplace should become a more productive and harmonious environment.