Why Cubicle Etiquette Matters

Cubicles and partitions give the illusion of privacy—but they’re often just thin walls between coworkers. What you say, do, or even eat can affect others. A bit of awareness goes a long way in keeping the workplace productive and positive.

According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), observing basic etiquette in open office settings is essential for maintaining focus and morale.

Tips for Working Well in a Cubicle

• Keep your space clean and organized: Your cubicle reflects your professionalism. A tidy space gives others a positive impression.
• Limit eating at your desk: Strong food smells can distract coworkers. If possible, eat in shared kitchen or break areas.
• Take sensitive conversations elsewhere: Use private rooms for critical discussions or confidential topics.
• Limit personal calls and social chats: Occasional conversations are fine, but frequent calls or drop-ins from colleagues can be disruptive. Take personal calls during breaks or when nearby coworkers are in meetings.
• Don’t enter uninvited: Respect personal space. Always knock or announce yourself before stepping into someone’s cubicle.
• Avoid non-verbal interruptions: Don’t use hand gestures to get someone’s attention while they’re on the phone. Wait until they’re available.
• Watch your volume: Laughing loudly or speaking over speakerphone can interrupt others. Ask yourself—can they hear me? If yes, it might be too loud.

At TrainingCourseMaterial.com, we recommend including cubicle etiquette in your onboarding programs. A few simple rules can help create a culture of mutual respect and reduce daily friction between teams.

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Looking for a full training session on workplace professionalism and etiquette? Check out the Business Etiquette Training Material Package — fully editable resources to help trainers deliver high-impact sessions.