Carrie Tuck, Strasz Business Development
November 17, 2014
Face time and water cooler talk leads to solid support and teamwork between colleagues, while developing interpersonal relationships and camaraderie. However, it’s important to remember that some topics of conversation are strictly taboo in the workplace. As a friendly reminder, we’ve put together a short list of water cooler do’s and don’ts. Remember: share between colleagues…but don’t share too much! 😉
While I am a believer in telecommuting, I am also a fan of establishing an office presence. Face time and water cooler talk leads to solid support and teamwork between colleagues, while developing interpersonal relationships and camaraderie.
Some of my best ideas and business relationships have been built while talking with co-workers as we casually sip coffee in the break room. Sharing stories with each other—sans the stress of role responsibilities, due dates, and tasks—can allow colleagues to relax and recharge their creative minds, permitting key business ideas to flow at the most unexpected moments!
My suggestion, whether you are a remote worker or a 9-to-5 office employee, is to take the time to participate in water cooler talk with your co-workers. Friendliness can go a long way, and will ensure a pleasant and productive office environment.
However, it’s important to remember that some topics of conversation are strictly taboo in the workplace. As a friendly reminder, I’ve put together a short list of water cooler do’s and don’ts. Remember: share between colleagues…but don’t share too much! 😉
DO:
- Talk about the conference you just attended including your favorite events or sessions.
- Gush over your colleague’s cute child in their new school picture.
- Engage in conversation about the great book you just read. Who knows? Maybe this will lead to a company book club!
- Brainstorm work teambuilding events.
- Wish your co-workers happy birthday or happy anniversary (after you check the office calendar).
- Offer your co-workers chocolates on your desk when they stop by.
DON’T:
- Divulge private details about your life such as court battles, pillow talk, financial details, or medical issues.
- Tell your coworker that the reason you are adding Alka-Seltzer to your water is because you think you are still drunk from the night before.
- Gossip….about anyone! Just because “she” uses too much perfume or “he” spends too much time on the Internet doesn’t mean you have permission to talk about them behind their backs.
- Ask your peer how much their salary is.
- Mention any disagreements or arguments you had with a co-worker or superior. Other than the person you squabbled with, nobody needs to know!
Carrie Tuck, Strasz Business Development
November 17, 2014
Face time and water cooler talk leads to solid support and teamwork between colleagues, while developing interpersonal relationships and camaraderie. However, it’s important to remember that some topics of conversation are strictly taboo in the workplace. As a friendly reminder, we’ve put together a short list of water cooler do’s and don’ts. Remember: share between colleagues…but don’t share too much! 😉
While I am a believer in telecommuting, I am also a fan of establishing an office presence. Face time and water cooler talk leads to solid support and teamwork between colleagues, while developing interpersonal relationships and camaraderie.
Some of my best ideas and business relationships have been built while talking with co-workers as we casually sip coffee in the break room. Sharing stories with each other—sans the stress of role responsibilities, due dates, and tasks—can allow colleagues to relax and recharge their creative minds, permitting key business ideas to flow at the most unexpected moments!
My suggestion, whether you are a remote worker or a 9-to-5 office employee, is to take the time to participate in water cooler talk with your co-workers. Friendliness can go a long way, and will ensure a pleasant and productive office environment.
However, it’s important to remember that some topics of conversation are strictly taboo in the workplace. As a friendly reminder, I’ve put together a short list of water cooler do’s and don’ts. Remember: share between colleagues…but don’t share too much! 😉
DO:
- Talk about the conference you just attended including your favorite events or sessions.
- Gush over your colleague’s cute child in their new school picture.
- Engage in conversation about the great book you just read. Who knows? Maybe this will lead to a company book club!
- Brainstorm work teambuilding events.
- Wish your co-workers happy birthday or happy anniversary (after you check the office calendar).
- Offer your co-workers chocolates on your desk when they stop by.
DON’T:
- Divulge private details about your life such as court battles, pillow talk, financial details, or medical issues.
- Tell your coworker that the reason you are adding Alka-Seltzer to your water is because you think you are still drunk from the night before.
- Gossip….about anyone! Just because “she” uses too much perfume or “he” spends too much time on the Internet doesn’t mean you have permission to talk about them behind their backs.
- Ask your peer how much their salary is.
- Mention any disagreements or arguments you had with a co-worker or superior. Other than the person you squabbled with, nobody needs to know!