Office Etiquette That Didn't Exist Five Years Ago

Understanding proper etiquette is essential for success in any industry. Following the rules of office etiquette will help you avoid embarrassing faux pas and maintain your reputation as an experienced professional. Although many office etiquette rules have been the same for decades, advances in technology have made it necessary to create new rules for dealing with things such as cellphones, instant messaging apps, and social networks. These rules of office etiquette didn't exist five years ago, but they are necessary for your success in today's business world.

It may feel like you've been using social media forever, but some channels are fairly new. Pinterest didn't enter its closed beta testing phase until March 2010. Google made its Google+ network available to adults on September 20, 2011. These networks have revolutionized personal and professional communication, but using them in a professional setting can get tricky. If you plan to share photos you take at work, don't post pictures of your colleagues unless you have their permission. Unless you manage your company's social media network, you should never post photos that have your company's name or any proprietary information in the background.

Apple released the first iPad in 2010, and the device quickly became an essential tool for business professionals. If you use your iPad to take notes during meetings, there are some office etiquette rules you must follow. If you have permission to take notes on your iPad, sit in the back of the room. This will help you avoid distracting other participants. Don't use your tablet to play games or check email. If you are charged with supervising millennial employees, make sure they understand these office etiquette rules.

The MIT Technology Review named temporary social media one of the ten breakthrough technologies of 2013. Apps such as Snapchat make it possible to send a photo that self-destructs after just a few seconds, which can improve spontaneity and eliminate some concerns about communication privacy. Unfortunately, temporary social media is a sticky wicket for those charged with creating new office etiquette rules. Never send an inappropriate photo from your workplace, even if you are off the clock. Keep your company's name out of your social media photos. Do not use your company's Internet connection to share photos. Instead, use your cellphone carrier's network or wait until you get home to send pictures.

Following the rules of proper etiquette will help you demonstrate your professionalism in the workplace, but you must stay informed about tech-related rules. If you plan to share photos of your colleagues, get permission first. Sit in the back of the meeting room if you plan to use your tablet to take notes. Never use your employer's network to share pictures or chat with friends. Adhering to these rules of office etiquette will help you enjoy technology without losing your job.

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