Mind the Aroma
The golden rule of office lunches is simple: if you can smell it from ten feet away, you probably shouldn't be eating it at your desk. Strong-smelling foods are a top complaint in shared workspaces. Foods like fish, reheated broccoli, cabbage, asparagus,
and anything with a lot of onion or garlic can create powerful, lingering odors that are unpleasant for those not eating them. The same goes for certain curries and fermented foods like kimchi. While delicious to you, these potent scents can be distracting and even nauseating to others. When packing your lunch, opt for less fragrant options like salads, sandwiches on non-pungent bread, or soups that don't have a heavy aromatic base. If you absolutely must have your fish or curry, consider eating it in the designated breakroom or even outside to keep the peace.
Keep the Noise Down
It’s not just smells that can irritate your colleagues; sounds matter, too. Constant, loud crunching on carrots or chips, slurping soup or drinks, and vigorous chewing with an open mouth are common grievances. In an open-plan office, these noises can be incredibly distracting for those trying to focus on work or take a phone call. Be mindful of how you eat. Chew with your mouth closed, avoid slurping, and if you're eating something particularly crunchy, perhaps take smaller bites. Even the sound of ice rattling in a thermal cup can become an annoyance when heard repeatedly throughout the day. A little self-awareness goes a long way in creating a more peaceful environment for everyone.
The Cleanliness Code
Your mother doesn't work here, so it's on you to clean up. Desks can harbor hundreds of times more bacteria than a toilet seat, making them a questionable dining surface to begin with. Leaving behind crumbs, sticky spots, or scattered wrappers is not only visually unappealing but can also attract pests. Always wipe up any spills or messes immediately. Use a plate or container to catch crumbs, and make sure all your rubbish ends up in the bin. At the end of your meal, give your desk area a quick wipe-down with an antibacterial wipe to keep your space, and the office, hygienic.
Navigating the Shared Kitchen
Your responsibility doesn't end at your desk. The communal office kitchen is a space that requires everyone's cooperation to remain functional and pleasant. A sink full of dirty dishes is a universal office pet peeve. Wash your dishes promptly or, if there's a dishwasher, rinse them and load them in. When using the microwave, always cover your food to prevent splatters. If a mess happens, clean it immediately. The refrigerator is another potential battleground. Label your food with your name and the date, and don't leave items to languish for weeks. Respect that it's a shared space by not taking up an entire shelf with a week's worth of groceries. And if you use the last of the coffee or paper towels, be a good citizen and either replace it or notify the office manager.
