I’d like to talk about a former colleague of mine named Arthur, who used to manage the administrative office at a community college where I worked a couple of years ago in Bristol.
What really stood out about Arthur from the day I joined was his impeccable manners. In a busy office where people were often stressed and snappy, he was always unfailingly courteous. He had this wonderful habit of giving people his full, undivided attention whenever they spoke to him, he never checked his mobile phone mid-conversation or interrupted anyone. Even when dealing with frustrated students or demanding tutors, he’d listen patiently, validate their concerns, and respond with remarkable tact. Outside of formal meetings, he’d always remember to ask about people’s families, held doors open without making a fuss, and even sent handwritten thank-you notes after major projects wrapped up.
Naturally, people responded to him with immense warmth and respect. Even the most difficult personalities in the staff room seemed to soften around him, simply because his calm demeanour disarmed any tension. You always felt valued and listened to in his presence.
I suppose what makes his politeness so striking is that it never feels like a rehearsed performance. These days, a lot of workplace etiquette feels a bit superficial, but with Arthur, it genuinely stems from deep empathy and respect for others. I think he was brought up with traditional values where consideration for other people’s feelings was paramount, and he’s carried that throughout his life. He made the whole workplace a far more pleasant environment.