Appropriate Work Behavior

Appropriate work behavior is straightforward at both ends. Nobody needs guidance on abuse, and nobody needs permission to be polite. Almost every complaint originates in the middle.

The middle is recognisable. Humour that lands differently depending who hears it. Feedback that is accurate and delivered publicly. Persistence that reads as enthusiasm to one person and pressure to another. Physical closeness that is normal for one culture and uncomfortable in another. Messages sent late at night with no expectation attached, and read as expectation anyway.

None of that is misconduct in itself, and all of it becomes a complaint when it is repeated after someone has signalled discomfort.

That is the practical rule worth teaching. The behaviour is rarely the problem. Continuing it after a signal is.

The Australian Human Rights Commission covers the employer duty. This is general information rather than legal advice, and obligations vary by state and territory.

See Sentrient’s respect at work training and code of conduct training.