We all strive to showcase only our best and most diligent selves at work and to be seen as this. So, we play by the rules, do our jobs, and go home. However, certain things can hinder our productivity in the workplace. These things could be attributes, qualities or behaviors, and for the business and its employees to thrive, they should not be allowed. This article is dedicated to highlighting these harmony-hating qualities in a bid to promote a professional and supportive work environment.
1. Discrimination and Harassment
At the top of the list is discrimination and harassment, and rightfully so. Workplace discrimination and harassment is not just utterly wrong and prohibited; it is illegal. This means the aggrieved party can always file a lawsuit seeking compensation for the reproach.
Workplaces need to be inclusive and safe for everyone, irrespective of gender, race, religion, or sexual orientation. This means there should be zero tolerance for derogatory remarks, jokes, or behaviors that make employees feel uncomfortable, threatened, or less valued. If an employee is experiencing discrimination or harassment, they must take it to their superiors, who must then dish out the appropriate consequences.
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Smoking
We get it. Sometimes, you get stressed at work and need a hit of your cigarette. However, smoking recklessly within office premises can lead to health concerns. It also causes discomfort among employees, especially those who are sensitive to smoke or are trying to quit with a vape juice or a nicotine patch. So, it should not be allowed since it is also a significant distraction that degrades the quality of indoor air. However, there’s a way around it. By transitioning to vaping, a healthier alternative, and creating designated vaping areas away from the workspace, companies can support their employees’ lifestyles without having to compromise the health of others.
2. Noise Pollution
Excessive noise is disruptive to a corporate environment. It is distracting and hinders one’s productivity. Sure, it’s not like people would bring and use a megaphone in the office. Still, loud personal phone calls, constant notifications from devices, or even repetitive loud discussions are just as disruptive and diminishing. Noise pollution in the workplace can be curbed by encouraging the use of headphones, setting up designated quiet zones, and having sound-absorbing materials to block out the noise.
3. Strong Scents
Perfumes, colognes, scented candles or even strong food odors can be overwhelming in a shared environment. For individuals with allergies or sensitivities, these scents can trigger adverse reactions, making it difficult to focus or even stay in the workspace. To prevent the workspace from being an allergy incubation center, management can introduce policies encouraging the minimal use of scented products, as this will help create a comfortable atmosphere for all.
4. Personal Clutter
A cluttered desk will not only reflect poorly on one’s professionalism and hygiene but also affect the mental clarity and productivity of not just them but their colleagues as well. Workspaces overrun with unnecessary personal items can lead to inefficiencies and a generally untidy office environment. This creates a bad impression for potential clients or investors and should not be tolerated. So, management should facilitate regular desk clean-ups and provide adequate storage solutions to keep the office neat and orderly.
5. Unprofessional Attire
Dress codes vary from one office to the other as the company’s culture and industry influence what the employees wear. This is why bartenders and those in the service industry dress more comfortably than, say, the tellers at the bank. However, if the workplace is a corporate one, then overly casual clothes, such as flip-flops, shorts, or tank tops, can take away from the professional image of a business and might even be inappropriate. For this reason, management should have clear guidelines on acceptable office wear.
6. Inappropriate Use of Technology
With the ubiquity of smartphones and the internet, the boundaries between personal and professional use can blur. Excessive personal browsing, use of social media, or non-work-related streaming can not only impact productivity but strain company resources and increase the risk of cyber vulnerabilities. So, implementing and enforcing policies on technology use during work hours is crucial.
7. Pets in the Office
Although pets in the workplace can reduce stress and increase job satisfaction, unless they’re approved service dogs, they are not suitable for office environments. Issues such as allergies, phobias, and potential disruptions make it important for businesses to consider these factors before allowing pets into the office.
Conclusion
The key to a productive and positive workspace lies not just in what is brought in but also in what is kept out. By setting clear, enforceable boundaries around these disruptive elements, businesses can cultivate an environment where all employees can feel respected, focused, supported and motivated. Remember, a successful workplace doesn’t just feature great amenities and perks but also fosters a culture that promotes professionalism and respect for all.
