Australian workplace etiquette is governed by the workplace health and safety law of Australia. It’s important to understand workplace etiquette when in Australia, as it will help you navigate the workplace with ease. In this blog post, we’ll go over some common workplace manners that are essential for Australian office environments!
Always arrive on time for your workplace.
When you arrive at the workplace, always be on time. You might think that arriving late is no big deal; however, doing so can negatively impact others in the workplace and could lead to disciplinary action against you. In Australia, being late is frowned upon.
Being late is not only impolite, but it’s also potentially dangerous. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), tardiness can cause accidents on Australia’s roads and at work sites each year.
For instance, in 2018 alone there were over 1 million reported road crashes resulting from lateness or driver distraction that resembled driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol according to a report by The Guardian.
This statistic highlights how important punctuality really is for Australians who value their safety as well as those around them when commuting through busy streets during traffic time periods.
Respect your boss but not be intimidated by them
In Australia, the management structure of most companies is flatter than in many other countries. It means that there are fewer layers from top to bottom and managers have a more equal footing with their employees.
Being a good manager means not only working with the people you directly supervise but also showing an interest in those who work under them. If everyone feels like they are being heard and appreciated by their managers it will improve morale throughout your department or company as a whole.
Always shake hands
When you meet someone for the first time at work, make sure to shake their hand. This is a simple way of showing respect and making them feel more comfortable around you as well.
Avoid discrimination
Jokes about race, gender, sexuality and religion are not acceptable because they perpetuate discrimination. You could get in trouble for making jokes about race, gender, sexuality or religion.
Exchange business cards with people you meet
When you meet someone new, try to exchange business cards with them. You can still make a good impression if they don’t give one to you – this doesn’t mean that the person is being rude or disrespectful in any way.
If it makes sense within your conversation and time frame, introduce yourself by name first rather than asking for their name right away- something like “Hi I’m [your own full name], nice meeting you! What’s yours?” Use first names when addressing people and show respect by doing so as well!
Don’t be afraid to ask
Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you do not understand something! Especially in a work or school environment, asking questions can help us navigate tasks and challenges with ease. It is better to ask a few clarifying questions than begin an assignment without any direction; this will ensure we are on the same page as our collaborators and that all parties involved have understood their roles.
Don’t gossip
Don’t get a bad rep for spreading rumors about your coworkers. It comes off as unprofessional and people will begin to distrust you; even if what you said was true, keep it in the office because gossiping is uncalled for.
Visit Australia to better understand the country’s workplace etiquette. Contact https://www.perthbusandcoach.com.au/ to help you arrange your schedule.