It’s always fun to dress up your office a bit and show off your sense of style. Even if you work in a cubicle, it’s sometimes nice just to add a little color to the drab gray that tends to dominate office settings. There are lots of ways to have functional cubicle décor that’ll brighten your day and mood, but there is also such a thing as cubicle etiquette. Whether it’s managing your cubicle behaviors or managing the cubicle scene, here a just a few things that your cubicle neighbor would appreciate you leaving at home.
- Over-the-Top Seasonal Décor
You may be the biggest Halloween fan in your neighborhood, but the office is the space to keep that obsession at bay. If the gray cubicle color is hidden because of the mass of orange and black covering your cubicle walls, there’s a problem. Generally speaking, anything flashy is bad. Don’t even think about bringing anything that talks, screams, moves, or sings when someone walks by it. Your poor neighbor doesn’t want to be forced to listen to that noise each time someone new comes around the corner. - Giant Plants
Plants are generally acceptable for the office, but that doesn’t mean it should invade your neighbor’s space. A great rule of thumb is to not buy plants that are higher than the cubicle walls. It also shouldn’t be so wide that it takes up the width of the desk. Big plants look tacky when they overtake the cubicle, and it can also possibly increase your neighbor’s allergy suffering. - Sparkles, Sequins, and Neon
Always think to tone down the flashiness. Your office is supposed to be functional. While it’s totally fine to add some personality to your space, also remember that you’re in a professional setting. Anything bright and flashy like sparkles or sequins or neon sends an unprofessional vibe. The less you look like a 13-year old girl, the better. - Religious Décor
Everyone is entitled to their own religious beliefs, but unless you work for a religiously affiliated organization or company, consider leaving your scriptures and Jesus candles at home. Like it or not, this kind of décor often makes your coworker feel uncomfortable and can prevent open communication based on assumptions and stereotypes. - Anything Offensive, Inappropriate, or Scandalous
You and your close friends might have had some really great times in Vegas last summer, but those vacation pictures shouldn’t appear on your cubicle walls. Additionally, any artwork that contains nudity should stay at home, too. Cursing may be tolerated in your workspace, but think twice before displaying offensive words. Your space is still a representation of your company, and just because you’re comfortable with a display, doesn’t mean your coworker (or your employer) is comfortable with it.
