Assalamu Alaikum,
We spend a third of our lives at work, and it's amazing how we sometimes forget that what we do or say at work will also be taken into account on the day we stand in front of Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala).
The work environment is full of situations that can tempt a person to gossip, lie, backbite, or simply be ill-mannered. Yet we need to keep in mind our role model, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him), who said: "I have only been sent to perfect good manners".
It is hard sometimes to be polite and well-mannered especially in a stressful work environment, and with the social pressure to be like everyone else can make it difficult for you to stand out with your exceptional good manners. But in the end, on the Day of Judgement, when we stand in front of Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala, our work environment and colleagues won't help us, we'll need to help ourselves.
You might ask what does having manners have to do with being productive at work? The better your manners are at work, the less stressed you'll be, the more likeable you become, the easier it is for you to focus at work and for others to work with you and collaborate on projects together. All these factors and more improve your workplace productivity.
So here are 3 practical tips to boost your manners at the workplace:
Be conscious of your manners. Ask yourself: If the Prophet (Peace be upon him) as here with me today, would he approve of the way I behave and carry myself? Reflect on each day at work and how you handled yourself at different situations.
Be quick to apologize: If you've slipped or made a mistake or said something that was inappropriate (even if you're right), be quick to apologise to the person(s) you've hurt. Even if it's not your fault. Be the first to apologize.
Go the extra mile: Let your manners be exemplary. Be the first to say Salam and Good Morning when you walk in. Ask about people's well-being and about their families and how well they are doing. Write Thank You cards to those who've helped you or supported you. Bring small gifts and share with your colleagues at work. Keep your tongue clean of any evil saying and make it only say what's good and pleasant to hear.
May Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala) help us all follow the example of our Prophet (Peace be upon him) and perfect our good manners Insha ALLAH.