The following post is from Meg T. who interned with Reynolds this summer.

When at work, being diligent and productive is priority number one. So, when non-work-related topics arise in conversation, the following do’s and don’ts will help you stay professional in the workplace.

DO chat with your co-workers on your way in and out of the building.

Get to know your co-workers as you arrive and leave work every day. This time before and after work and away from your desk is a good time to ask your colleagues how they are and check in with them about their lives and interests.

DO talk about your day at lunch.

Use the lunch hour to chat about your day and your co-worker’s day and get to know people on a deeper level. At Reynolds, many associates eat lunch in the dining room, which also allows them the opportunity to network across departments.

DO take midday walks around the building.

Midday walks get you moving, help clear your mind, and break up the day. We’ve all heard the warning that sitting in your chair for eight hours straight is bad for your health, so you should get up and stretch. Take a brief walk around the building with a co-worker and discuss your latest project or ask for advice on work situations.

DON’T enter into inappropriate work topics.

Regardless of when you speak to your co-workers, make sure the topics you discuss are work appropriate. Just because you are on your lunch hour does not mean you can delve into inappropriate topics. Remember where you are and the professionalism you should display, no matter the time of day.

DON’T talk loudly between your desks.

Yelling back and forth between desks to share information is rude and unproductive. If you need to talk to someone, even in the next cube over, get up and go over there to chat with them. Your conversation won’t disturb others and will remain far more private.

DON’T stand in the break room for twenty minutes.

It is okay to strike up a conversation about last night’s football game when you’re in the break room. But, be mindful not to spend extended periods of time hanging out instead of doing your work. There is a difference between taking a short break to help increase your overall productivity and simply procrastinating or killing time.

Remember you are at work and your time is important and should remain productive. Maintaining professionalism and building rapport with colleagues will be easier to do when you follow workplace etiquette.