To serve clients successfully, employees tend to develop an individual working style. But if your actions impede on your co-workers’ duties, it detracts from a pleasant, productive office environment.

Want to be a great co-worker? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Mind your manners. Always say “please” and “thank you.”

Be approachable. Smile at others when you pass in the hall.

Learn your job and use your authority. Avoid asking others questions when you should know the answers.

Give positive feedback. Acknowledge your co-workers for doing well.

Practice respectful meeting etiquette. Be on time, be prepared and participate by listening and responding. Turn off all electronic devices during meetings. If you need to take a call, leave the room.

Stay on topic. Don’t waste your co-workers’ time, whether it’s work-related or personal.

Use proper phone etiquette. Do not use a speaker phone in an open workspace. Answer the phone no later than the third ring and silence the ringer on your mobile phone.

Pay attention to the way you speak. Keep your voice low so you don’t disrupt others. Speak only as loudly as necessary for the other party to hear you. And avoid swearing—it’s unprofessional.

Don't whine or gossip. If you have a complaint, speak to someone who can do something about it, whether it’s your boss or another person in charge. Always try to offer a solution if you can.

If it’s broken, fix it or tell somebody. If you find electronic devices, office furniture or building issues that need repair or attention, take the initiative to report it.

Practice considerate break room etiquette. If you make a mess, clean it up. Do your own dishes, close cabinet doors and, if you take the last cup of coffee, make more.

Minimize personal calls. Set boundaries with family and friends based on your availability.

Keep an odor-free workspace. Don’t eat anything smelly at your desk, and don’t overuse personal fragrance.

Respect the space of others. Do not use someone’s phone, computer or work area without their permission.

Leave your private life at the door. Don't reveal too much information about your personal life to co-workers—save it for family and close friends. And keep your views of politics, religion and social issues to yourself.

Be a model for the behavior you want your co-workers to have. Timeliness, accuracy and courtesy are just a few best practices.

Circulate this article via email or post it in the breakroom as a reminder to yourself and others. Staying focused on what you’re at work to do will help everyone avoid friction in the workplace.

Emily Huling, author of “Great Service Sells,” “Selling from the Inside” and “Kick Your ‘But,’” helps the insurance industry create top-performing sales, service and leadership organizations.