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What is proper Office Cubicle etiquette?

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Even though a cube farm has more privacy than does a completely open workspace, employees in a cube farm still have a great deal of communication and interaction with co-workers. Employees are constantly walking by and seeing into co-workers� cubicles or holding conversations that can be heard by the whole floor. It is important, therefore, to keep common office courtesy in mind.

Keep the noise down: If you are having a conversation in a cubicle (whether yours or someone else's) or in the hallway, lower your voice. If you are listening to music in your cubicle, use headphones or keep the volume low. Loud noise distracts your co-workers and forces them to overhear your conversations and music.
Limit your cubicle conversations: Be kind and courteous, but remember that you are at work to get a job done. It is easy to stop by a co-worker's cubicle because the door is always open, but be careful not to overstay your welcome. Have long, personal conversations in common areas or at other times.
Guard your privacy: Cubicle arrangements make it easy for co-workers to hear your conversations (including conversations on the phone) and to see into your workspace. Don't be paranoid, but be aware that what you say and do is easily overheard and seen. In addition, it is easy to become distracted while working in your office cubicle. Work with your back toward the cubicle entrance if that helps or use headphones to eliminate distractions.
Be friendly: Cubicle arrangements make for extensive interaction with co-workers. Take advantage of this opportunity to build strong relationships with your co-workers by smiling when you pass them in the hall, offering to bring them paperwork they need, and showing an interest in their personal lives. Nothing takes away the impersonal nature of a workspace like personal co-workers.

The general rule in cubicle etiquette is the Golden Rule: treat your co-workers as you would want them to treat you. Respect their workspace and their privacy, but be kind and helpful towards them.

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