Business Class

How often have we had to hear a co-worker recounting his or her weekend excesses, holding forth about drunken escapades, pick-ups and hangovers—usually told with a liberal dose of profanities?

Professionals know one should never be rude or crude in the office, but in today’s world, where Fear Factor reality TV and shock movies are mainstream, how does one define "rude" or "crude"? My rule of thumb is that if you shouldn’t say it in front of your respectable grandmother, you probably shouldn’t say it in front of co-workers. Profanity is never acceptable in the office. Not only does it reflect poorly on you, it could lead to sexual harassment complaints.

Some personal information is appropriate in the workplace. Almost everyone likes to share in weddings, birthdays, graduations and other celebrations, and it’s natural to talk about some of life’s ups and downs with officemates. However, it’s best to create boundaries. If you share too much information, people could lose trust in you and your ability to do the job. Don’t offer details about dates, divorces or personal finances. Steer away from tales of sexual encounters. Don’t rant about your ex’s new significant other, talk about Uncle Pete’s gambling debts or crow about your latest gains in the stock market. And be aware that not everyone wants to hear about your child’s potty training.

Talking about medical conditions can be problematic, too. A serious medical condition that could affect your work should be confided to your human resources department, not discussed within earshot of the gossip in your neighboring cubicle.

Sharing personal information to be friendly is fine, but don’t spend too much time chatting, and don’t disturb co-workers who are trying to work. You are there to do business, and sharing too much information about your personal life won’t help you finish the task at hand or earn respect for your professionalism.