Office Water Cooler Etiquette - A Simple Guide

One of the best ways to refresh yourself and blow off some steam is to grab a drink at the office water cooler and chat with your co-workers. Some may think that talking about subjects that are not related to work is unproductive. When, in fact, these conversations build the relationships necessary to maintain the morale in the workplace.

Being friendly and comfortable with your co-workers is great, but some topics should be avoided at office water coolers. To make sure you're on the right track, let's take a look at some acceptable topics and some topics you'll want to stay away from.

1. Do talk about the book you are reading with your book club. Do not bring up any books that have any level of controversy such as books on the environment, politics or religion.

2. Do talk about your latest hiking adventure. Sharing your hobbies and interests is a great way for co-workers to find out who you are away from the office. Do not talk about your church service. Remember, your religious preferences should not be discussed with your co-workers. Proselytizing is definitely off limits. If someone asks you your religion, tell him or her, but do not take it any further than that.

3. Do talk about your life objectives and career goals. Do not share how much you have to make or your salary, this is unprofessional.

4. Do share positive stories about your family and friends. Doing so gives your co-workers insight into who you are. Do not share your personal problems at work. There are plenty of problems to contend with in the workplace. Sharing your personal problems with your co-workers indicates a familiarity level that the majority of co-workers are uncomfortable with.

5. Do talk about the interesting aspects of your most recent vacation. If you travelled to an exotic location or remained home to explore your local area, your co-workers will enjoy hearing about what you have done. Never talk about your sex life with your co-workers.

6. Do talk about the fantastic meal that you had at the new Italian restaurant in town. Do not talk about the four bottles of wine that you drank with your lasagna. You should refrain from sharing information that will cause you to be looked upon negatively.

7. Do discuss a co-worker's promotion, new baby, or other positive news. Just make sure that you have permission from the individual you are speaking about. Do not talk about another co-worker's personal issues. By sharing negative talk you come off as a gossip which means you look negative as well.

The bottom line when it comes to office water cooler etiquette is to keep your chatter cheerful. You can build great working relationships and promote great teamwork with positive chat around the water cooler. Sharing can be a wonderful asset to your work environment, you just need to keep in mind what you should and should not share at office water coolers.

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