Rudeness in the workplace affects productivity

If asked whether people are more rude today than 20 or 30 years ago, you can imagine there would be an overwhelming response: yes.

The Emily Post Institute conducted an interview of 1,053 people in 2013 and 77 percent indicated that they had been treated rudely. This is up from a similar survey conducted by the Flagler Institute at the University of North Carolina in 2000, in which 55 percent of the 1,400 people interviewed indicated they experienced rudeness by a co-worker.

Rudeness in the workplace has a staggering effect on productivity. Lost work time avoiding the instigator was the experience of 28 percent of those interviewed by UNC and 18 percent from the Post Institute. The survey goes on to point out that the instigator is more likely someone of higher status or a valued talent.

Another reaction to rude behavior is loss of work time because of worrying. This reaction was experienced by 53 percent surveyed from UNC and 31 percent from the Post Institute.

Incivility results in a loss of productivity, lower profits and leads to poorer retention and difficulty in recruiting.

On the other hand, when civility and proper business etiquette is used at work, employees respond favorably to it and say that it is among the top things people look for when seeking employment.

Business etiquette is about one thing: building relationships.

It’s knowing the proper response in the right situation so that a working relationship can develop. It’s about removing all the distractions so that business can take place.

Emily Post describes etiquette this way: “Whenever two people come together and their behavior affects one another, you have etiquette.”

It is also important to understand that etiquette is not about codes and rules; it’s how people’s lives touch one another.

Sometimes it’s important to go back to the basics regarding business etiquette. Here are some key principles to consider:

▪ Think before acting. This is the start to success. People are not always rude intentionally. Sometimes taking an extra few moments to consider how the other person may receive your action or response may be the difference in landing a major contract or updating your resume.

▪ Make choices that build relationships. Remember business etiquette is about relationships, so when making choices consider the action or words that will most likely make everyone feel as good as possible about the situation, even if it’s not best for you.

▪ Do it sincerely. Sincerity is vital. A false smile or sarcastic “thanks” can do damage to a relationship. If you are believable and genuine, then they will have confidence in you.

Etiquette is the fuel that powers relationships. It is also the difference maker: Job skills or organizational capabilities open doors; personal skills get you the job, contract or promotion.

With better training for executives and managers regarding business etiquette, you will see a major shift in civility in the workplace, which will in turn affect your bottom line.

This story was originally published September 30, 2015 at 3:25 PM with the headline "Rudeness in the workplace affects productivity."