Top Ten office etiquettes for a Muslim

4 min read

It is difficult for a Muslim in today’s world to find a halal employment that is ethical, hygienic, and most importantly, provides a halal working atmosphere. The majority of us, particularly those in the West, work in open office spaces, which are largely mixed environments with no clear code of interaction between the sexes. Social dramas, love stories, tensions, and what is now known as “office politics” are all too common in these settings.

The point is, how should a Muslim deal with such a situation if they wish to be productive and representative of their faith? The traditional response is to flee the scene! And locate a halal employment in a halal atmosphere, but one can picture the ramifications of such a response on the Muslim community as a whole.

This question has been on my mind since I was recently thrown into an office atmosphere and discovered that things are slightly different there than in my typical ‘All-Muslim’ workplace. I sought advise from a couple of highly knowledgeable friends, and I’ve included their responses, as well as my own thoughts on the subject, in the top ten ideas below:

• Make sure the job you’re working at is at least halal: It’s terrible enough that you have to go to work in a non-halal atmosphere; at the very least, make sure the money you’re earning is halal.

• As soon as you start working, establish your religious parameters: Friday prayer times Whatever it is, make sure it is clear as soon as you join. Prayer breaks, avoiding shaking hands with individuals of the opposite sex, whatever it is, make sure it is clear as soon as you join. It is preferable not to proclaim these activities, but rather to simply carry them out as if expecting the other person to understand. If they ask any questions, you can give a brief explanation of your religious beliefs and obligations; otherwise, if they show more interest, you can go into greater detail. If you’ve had a rough start to your employment and now demand prayer breaks/Friday breaks/etc., expect some pushback and people saying things like “well, he didn’t pray before!” The best thing to do here is talk to your boss about your new requests and explain how important they are.

• Smile, speak, and be friendly to everyone: Don’t develop mini-groups within the office; you don’t want to be linked with “them over there,” so be neutral. This is especially important if you have a mixed group of Muslims and non-Muslims in your office; treat everyone with respect.

• Never, ever I would want to remind you of the dangers of backbiting by quoting Allah in Chapter 49, Verse 12, who says:

“O ye who believe!” exclaims the narrator. Avoid suspicion as much as possible: suspicion is a sin in some cases: And don’t snoop on one other behind each other’s backs. Would any of you wish to consume his dead brother’s flesh? No, you would despise it… But be wary of Allah. For Allah is Most Merciful and Oft-Returning.” Verse 12 of Chapter 49

Furthermore, in a simple hadeeth, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) stated that a person who leaves what is none of his/her concern alone is a sign of genuine Islam. Never, ever add fuel to the fire if other people start gossiping, try to shift the subject, or simply ignore it!

• If someone begins to regale you with their sexual exploits, night out stories, or chat up thoughts about another member of staff, a half-smile and either a polite withdrawal or excuse to leave is required. Just mentally thank Allah for making you who you are, and pray that he guides the other person to guidance. If you can’t get away, make a mental list of the things you need to do so you appear disinterested but not impolite. You don’t have to join in the laughing at dirty jokes; simply half smile and leave when possible. If you have the option to modify the subject, do so; otherwise, withdraw. If someone asks, “Do you think it funny?” simply respond, “It’s not really my humour” or “Not really.” Don’t forget to grin so you don’t come out as arrogant.

• If someone teases you or makes jokes about your behaviour, such as reading the Quran, just laugh and say, “Well, it’s the best book I’ve ever read.” Half-laughing, half-smiling, shrugging, and saying, “Well, that’s how I am,” does wonders for me. If someone asks directly, rather than during taunting, give a religious explanation.
• If the office is mixed (as it almost certainly will be), and any woman or male starts hitting on you, simply refuse to be drawn and maintain an exceptional demeanour. Never let a woman or man approach you too closely or lead you into a corner. It’s a recipe for disaster. If they do, discreetly reverse. If someone starts becoming too close with you, buying you gifts, food, or hanging around your desk, remain nice but slightly distracted.
• If you find yourself drawn to a coworker (it happens, we’re only human! & Shaytaan is hard at work), seek Allah’s guidance and strength, and begin completing voluntary fasts to push these thoughts away and clear your mind.
• The support workers, such as the post office, reception, and cleaners, are the most crucial people in the facility. Always greet them with a smile and thank them if they empty your bin while you are there; but, if they are of the other sex, keep your grin subdued.

Finally, before you go to work, make sure you do the 2 rak’ah of Duha (minimum 2, but you can pray up to 8 rak’ah if you wish) since it will help you place barakah (blessed) in all you do. At all times, keep Allah in your thoughts, and make dua dua dua! InshaAllah, you’ll be fully prepared to deal with any circumstance that arises in any office.

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Author: Muhammad Faris