Professional Etiquette and Mutual Respect

Micro-Aggressions and Inappropriate Teasing

Much of workplace toxicity comes not from major scandals, but from the accumulation of "micro-aggressions."

These are subtle behaviors, often disguised as humor, that denigrate a person.

Comments about a colleague's accent, physical appearance, choice of food, or marital status, under the guise of "we're just kidding," erode dignity.

Professional etiquette demands a standard of behavior where humor is not at the expense of another's identity or vulnerability.

Companies must educate about the difference between laughing with someone and laughing at someone; the former unites, the latter is violence.

Gossip and Rumorology as a Risk Factor

Gossip is one of the most destructive forces in any human group. Spreading unverified information about a colleague's personal or professional life is a form of passive aggression that can ruin reputations and careers.

Whoever starts the rumor and whoever spreads it are co-responsible for the deterioration of the work environment.

An ethical culture promotes direct communication and discourages triangulation.

Leaders must nip in the bud hallway conversations that seek to undermine others, making it clear that integrity is demonstrated both in the presence and absence of people.

Civility and Ground Rules of Coexistence

Sometimes conflict arises from a lack of basic civility. Not greeting, not asking for things please, constantly interrupting in meetings, or using an imperative and disrespectful tone of voice, are behaviors that, although they may not be crimes, create an unbearable environment.

These breaches of civility, if repeated and directed, can escalate into workplace harassment.

Boundary management involves remembering that hierarchy does not exempt good manners.

A safe environment is built on universal courtes