Are do not disturb signs inappropriate for an office environment?
Nov 01, 2006 by Tim | Posted in Etiquette
I have a sign on my office door and when I close the door the sign says what I mean. Is that inappropriate?
As long as you aren't keeping the door closed all day, I don't see a problem with it. You do need time to get some things done, and you can't do certain things with another standing in your doorway. And there are plenty of things that don't belong in the gossip pool at the office water cooler. Some things are private, and you are smart to keep them that way.
welches_grape_jelly | Nov 01, 2006
No.
origamimark | Nov 01, 2006
Well, depends on what your job is. If you really need privacy (doing payroll work, personnel records, etc.), then it's appropriate. If co-workers need your input throughtout the day though, take it down.
MusicMan5537 | Nov 01, 2006
Nope, it means you don't want to be disturbed because you are busy.
Webballs | Nov 01, 2006
Of course it is. I'd respect it.
erudite | Nov 01, 2006
No, how you going to sleep if people keep disturbing you?
snagelfritz | Nov 01, 2006
If you don't have a receptionist to run interferance for you, then such a sign might be the only way to get uninterupted time. However, you must balance your need for uninterupted time with the need to make yourself available to your co-workers. Perhaps it would be better to post a sign, warning your collegues in advance that you will not available during certain hours? Is it an option to do this sort of work away from the office?
kill_yr_television | Nov 01, 2006
Why no just post "Leave me the Hll Alone".
Simply closing your door should suffice.
C J | Nov 01, 2006
Not at all, you need privacy for certain work things such as conference calls, meetings and just plain concentration. I think is is ok defiantly.
sweetness24772000 | Nov 01, 2006
It depends on your position within the company and the level of privacy your position requires. If you're not in management and do not perform tasks requiring security and secrecy, then the sign is rude and inappropriate. Try to find another way to deal with intruders that's not quite so "in your face".
If you have the approval of upper management to use this sign, then I don't see the problem.
Rembrandt11 | Nov 01, 2006
I agree with MusicMan5.
♥JayCee♥ | Nov 01, 2006
I think it is a great idea as long as you are working behind closed doors and not having sex with your co-workers...
Some job are hard and need all your thoughts I think I would have to say that it is not inappropriate. Be sure though that it is not a gauty sign, be sure it is presentable in an office setting!
sophia_of_light | Nov 01, 2006
probably inappropriate unless the whole office uses signs like you do. I do know what you mean though there are always office gabbers who would rather be talking in your office than in their own getting their work done. It makes it hard to work and you want to lock your door when you see them coming.
bramblerock | Nov 01, 2006
NO, it's fine. If they need you let them send you an email.
Classy Granny | Nov 02, 2006