Recently, it was announced the average sized cubicle is 6 feet by 6 feet. The majority of American office workers spend their day in a space that is barely bigger than they are.

If you have a job or have had a job where you are in a cubicle, you know how annoying it can be to have a noisy neighbor. Here are 10 tips from etiquette expert Gloria Starr to help make your “neighborhood” a little nicer and you can just hope your co-workers take your cue. If you are the manager, you might think about passing these tips along to your folks too.

• Respect others’ privacy and try not to listen to conversations.
• Snacking in your cube can be noisy and the smell may offend others – think about taking a quick break to the coffee area or lunch room.
• If you need to have a confidential conversation, move into a conference room or walk outside the building. Treat your workspace as if you are having an open conversation at all times.
• Wait to be invited into a cubicle. Don’t try talking over the walls – you may be disturbing someone even if you think you are being more efficient.
• Avoid speaker phone – the ultimate in disrespect to your colleagues. Speak softly; your voice does carry no matter how quiet you think you are being.
• Even sign language communication while someone is on the phone is an interruption. Wait for them to get off the phone.  
• Use minimal decoration in your cubicle –excessive photos and mementos can be a distraction.
• Listening to music, an iPod or your cell phone is not appropriate for a cubicle.
• Avoid making personal calls in your cubicle – not everyone is interested in your love life or personal issues.
• An organized cubicle free of clutter and mess is respectful to your co-workers and puts forth a better impression for your supervisor.

For more etiquette tips, please visit Starr’s website at www.gloriastarr.com.