Break Room Etiquette

A break room can be an excellent place to relax and unwind during the workday as long as some basic rules of break room etiquette are followed.

Take Your Mom to Work Day

Unless a new holiday of taking your mother to work has been instituted in your office, it is best to assume that no one will clean up after you. Even if your mom did work there, you should still cleanup after yourself; this includes picking up trash, wiping up spills, and scrubbing out the microwave after an explosion.

First Come, First Served

If the break room is small and many people are trying to eat lunch at the same time, there may not be enough seats to go around. Try not to linger in a chair if someone else is waiting, and do not save seats for others.

Refill and Restock

If your cup is the one that empties the coffee pot or water jug, brew another batch or replace the jug. This applies to napkins and condiments as well.

Do not Fuel the Rumor Mill

No matter how tempting it may be, the break room is not the place for gossip. It is extremely unprofessional and rude.

Eat What You Bring

If food is not clearly labeled, it is best to assume that it belongs to someone else. Eat only the food that you bring. Labeling is a great way to ensure that your lunch does not accidentally get snagged.

Keep Science Experiments Out of the Fridge

Try not to leave your food in the refrigerator for an extended period of time. If something rots or goes bad, throw away in an outdoor trashcan.

Leave the Fish at Home

No matter how good it tastes, fish leaves a lingering smell, especially when it is microwaved. It is best savored at home.