The Etiquette Edge

INTRODUCTION

The Case for Courtesy

Today’s workplace is a more complex environment than it was just a couple of decades ago. Organizations have benefited from the richness of diversity and reduced hierarchy, but the resulting cultural complexity and diminished structure have created considerable confusion about accepted conventions of conduct and interpersonal relationships.

Customs vary, and language and social differences can make effective interaction in the workplace, as challenging as it already is, even more daunting. The old rules don’t seem to work anymore; we need new practical guidelines to avoid confusion, or even chaotic behavior.

Unfortunately, since the late sixties and early seventies, many people have considered courtesy old fashioned ...