If They Had Subway Announcements in the Workplace

For those of us who live in big cities, subways are a way of life. If you’re in New York City, then you are familiar with the ubiquitous automated announcements which intrude on your reading, talking or deep thoughts while riding the rails or waiting on the platform.

Depending on the “mood” of the train you’re on, you could be bombarded by a new “courtesy announcement” every 10 seconds, invading your mental space to remind you of the code of conduct for riding the subway: to keep an eye on your wallet and to give your seat up for the elderly, as well as to not litter, hold the doors, or ride in between or on top of subway cars.

I have to say, I find these announcements to be incredibly intrusive, not to mention unnecessary and rather obvious. We are all aware of the rules of riding mass transit, and don’t need to be reminded endlessly that which we already know.

I wonder what would happen if offices decided to install similar Orwellian “courtesy announcements,” in order to remind employees of proper workplace conduct:

1.  If you are leaving work for vacation, holiday or maternity, turn on your out of office message. Courtesy is contagious, and it begins with you!

1. We are being delayed momentarily by a client who can’t make up their mind. Please be patient.

1. Backpacks and other large containers are subject to ridicule by your co-workers.

1. Dating a colleague is not only unwise; it is unhealthy for your career development.

1. A crowded happy hour is no excuse for a poorly delivered punchline. Please use email when telling jokes.

1. Keep your cubicle belongings in sight at all times. If you see a suspicious activity, do not keep it to yourself. Send an email to HR. Remain alert, and have a safe day.

1. Inform your manager of your status, not your friends – please, don’t use social media in the workplace.

Please leave any others you come up with below! Have a great weekend- and thank you for riding with us! And check TrivWorks out for your next New York City team building ideas!