The Unwritten Rules of Canadian Workplaces
From weather small talk to lunch culture and meeting code words, here’s a newcomer’s guide to surviving Canadian workplace etiquette.
The Unwritten Rules of Canadian Workplaces
Congrats on the job! Now comes the tricky part: fitting in. Canadian workplaces have rules no one tells you.
Weather = Safe Small Talk
Every Monday starts with: “Cold enough for you?”
This isn’t boring—it’s bonding. Join in.
Meetings = Understatement Olympics
- “We’ll circle back” = “This is going nowhere.”
- “Interesting idea” = “Probably not.”
- “Let’s keep this in mind” = “We won’t.”
Learn the code.
Lunch Culture
- Microwave fish and curry at work? Bold move.
- Stick to sandwiches, salads, or leftovers that don’t smell.
- Yes, people eat at their desks—but if invited to group lunch, go. It matters.
The Bottom Line
👉 Tip: Casual Friday is casual, not lazy. Jeans are fine. Pajamas? Not so much.
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