Good Behaviour by Decree?

How a simple contract can motivate employees to create a kinder, gentler (more prosperous) workplace

Consider the things coworkers do  that you wish they wouldn’t.

Allison, for instance, chews gum—loudly—when she’s on the phone with customers. Calvin consistently forgets to turn off his cell phone at critical times. (Last week it burst into a rousing chorus of It’s a Small World during an important meeting with potential investors from China.) And Joshua’s tendency to aggressively share his religious and political views creates a palpable tension in the office, particularly during an election. None of them are bad employees, but they do have bad habits that can irritate clients and coworkers alike. You can encourage good behaviour and the vast majority of employees will be glad you did.