• Course Introduction

        • Time: 6 hours
        • Free Certificate
        Whether you work on a construction site or in a medical facility, the professional world is full of challenging situations, such as conflicting personalities, miscommunication, and cultural differences. In this course, we explore how workplace etiquette protocols, communication standards, and cultural awareness strategies can help you navigate common obstacles to create a healthier, more inclusive, and more productive work environment. We begin by introducing professional manners, respect, and common courtesy. Then, we discuss effective communication in terms of verbal, nonverbal, and virtual communication techniques. Finally, we investigate diversity and how we should respond to and respect cultural differences to create a friendlier and more inclusive workplace.

        • Course Syllabus

          First, read the course syllabus. Then, enroll in the course by clicking "Enroll me". Click Unit 1 to read its introduction and learning outcomes. You will then see the learning materials and instructions on how to use them.

        • Unit 1: Workplace Courtesy

          Everyday courtesies include holding the door for the person behind you, privately and publicly thanking colleagues who help you, encouraging your co-workers, and treating others as you would like to be treated. Neglecting these courtesies can damage your relationships, cause hurt feelings, and lead to misunderstandings that are difficult to repair. In this unit, we will explore workplace manners and the positive behavioral qualities most employers seek in their employees.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

        • Unit 2: Workplace Communication

          Employees are regularly expected to interpret information correctly and communicate with their colleagues, customers, and clients in a respectful manner. Effective communication can increase motivation and create a positive work environment. Even so, one of the leading causes of conflict in the workplace is a lack of adequate or clear communication. Miscommunication can arise from a number of sources, including poor listening skills, misinformation, and misinterpreting verbal, nonverbal, and virtual messages. In this unit, we explore ways to avoid communication errors, since they can lead to disastrous results if left unrecognized and unchecked.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 3 hours.

        • Unit 3: Diversity in the Workplace

          Organizations that encourage their employees to share new and creative ideas to get a competitive edge. Practices that foster diversity and inclusion increase employee satisfaction by making everyone feel like a valuable member of a team working together toward a common goal. Bringing people who have different ideas and experiences together creates a diverse community that can harness the talents of each individual for the good of the whole. While many companies have a diverse workforce, it takes effort and understanding to create an inclusive environment where everyone feels like they are valuable and appreciated. In this unit, we explore diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

          Completing this unit should take you approximately 1 hour.

        • Course Feedback Survey

          Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses.

          If you come across any urgent problems, email contact@saylor.org.

        • Certificate Final Exam

          Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.

          To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt.

          Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate.