So you have got a new job or maybe, a promotion. Congratulations to you! You will probably move to a new office (or cubicle), handle more responsibilities and possibly, meet new colleagues. This is a new chapter in your life and you are eager to shine in your new position.

Well, it’s good to shine and aim to be an outstanding employee but remember, it’s not a good idea to annoy your coworkers. There may be competition in work but don’t let it be a reason for the lack of harmony in your office. Below are some behavious which we should avoid so as to maintain civility in the workplace:

1. Blasting your personal stereo
Unless you have your own sound-proof room, do not turn up the volume of your stereo or computer speakers. Even if your company allows you to listen to music or the radio during office hours, do try to minimise the volume. Be considerate to others in the office.

2. Talking loudly on your phone
Unless your colleagues are stalkers, they are probably not interested in your private conversations. Do speak softly on the phone. And if you are speaking on your handphone, do be discreet or find a quiet spot in the office.

3. Dressing scantily to the office
No hot pants or midriff baring clothes! Never wear revealing clothes that will make you the talk of the town (or office). Always dress appropriately for work even if you are heading to a party after office hours.

4. Taking credit for others’ hard work
From time to time, one may need to work with several colleagues on any particular job or assignment. Should it happened that you were praised for a job well done, it would be good to share the glory with your team mates. If you make it look like you did it all on your own, your colleagues would probably avoid and dump you for good the next time you need their help.

5. Sharing dirty jokes
It’s fine to tell a joke occasionally but not dirty jokes, especially to the opposite sex. It’s not funny to find yourself accused of sexual discrimination by your colleagues one day.

6. Talking down to your colleagues
Even if you are a manager, do not talk down to your colleagues or subordinates. Your condescending attitude will cause them to resent you.

7. Spreading rumours or badmouthing your colleagues
Refrain from saying unpleasant things about your colleagues to others, especially if they are untrue. This is unprofessional and totally lacking in class.