15 Behaviors That Were Once Normal at Work
Here's a look back at workplace habits and customs that used to be common but would feel out of place today.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Office culture has transformed over the years, replacing outdated norms with new standards of professionalism and technology. Many practices that were once standard would now seem strange, inefficient, or even inappropriate. Here are 15 work behaviors that were perfectly normal in their time but have since faded into history.
1. Smoking at Your Desk
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Decades ago, lighting up a cigarette while working was acceptable in many offices. Ashtrays sat beside staplers, and smoke lingered in the air.
2. Long, Uninterrupted Coffee Breaks
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Coffee breaks once doubled as extended social sessions in the break room. Conversations could stretch far beyond a quick caffeine refill.
3. Using Typewriters for All Documents
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Before computers, every memo, letter, and report was typed on a typewriter. Typos meant starting over or using correction fluid.
4. Hand-Delivering Memos
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Internal communication relied on physical memos delivered in envelopes between departments. Inter-office mail carts were a familiar sight.
5. Friday Afternoon Office Parties
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Many companies hosted casual in-office gatherings with drinks to wrap up the week. It was a chance to unwind with colleagues before heading home.
6. Having a Secretary for Every Executive
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Executives often had a dedicated secretary to handle calls, correspondence, and scheduling. This role has largely evolved into shared administrative support.
7. Over-the-Phone Job Interviews
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While still used occasionally, phone interviews were once the primary way to screen candidates before an in-person meeting. Video calls have now taken over this step.
8. Storing Paper Files in Massive Cabinets
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Rows of metal filing cabinets held every invoice, letter, and record. Retrieving a single document could take minutes. Digital databases have made such storage systems nearly obsolete.
9. Wearing Strict Business Attire Daily
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Suits, ties, and dresses were the expected dress code for almost all office workers. Casual Fridays were a novelty. Many workplaces now favor business casual or even fully casual dress codes.
10. Personal Phone Calls at Your Desk
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It was common to take or make personal calls during work hours on the office landline. There was little privacy, and everyone could hear your side of the conversation.
11. Using the Fax Machine Constantly
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The fax machine was once a vital tool for sending contracts, forms, and letters quickly. The whirring, beeping process was part of daily operations.
12. Hanging Motivational Posters Everywhere
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Walls were covered with posters featuring inspiring quotes and scenic images. These were meant to boost morale, though they often became office jokes.
13. Fixed 9-to-5 Hours with No Flexibility
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Employees were expected to be at their desks from 9 a.m. sharp until 5 p.m. No remote work or flexible scheduling was offered.
14. Birthday Celebrations with Sheet Cake in the Break Room
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Colleagues gathered for cake, punch, and a quick sing-along when someone had a birthday. It was a small but regular workplace ritual. Many offices now skip these gatherings or keep them to a few times a year.
15. Using Intercom Announcements
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Announcements for visitors, calls, or reminders were broadcast over loudspeakers. The sudden crackle could interrupt meetings and phone calls.