The 10 most ridiculous workplace rules exposed

Some say that rules are made to be broken – and according to research from independent job board CV-Library, almost two-thirds (60.2 per cent) of Brits have worked for a company that implemented strange or ridiculous rules.

What’s more, more than half (55.7 per cent) confessed that they weren’t happy about having to abide by these.

The survey of 1,200 professionals looked into the most ridiculous rules that UK bosses were enforcing on their staff and how employees felt about these.

Workers were asked to share the craziest rules that their boss had in place, these included:

1. No food or drink at your desk – 41.1 per cent2. Pay docked for being a few minutes late – 33.2 per cent3. Getting a doctor’s note for any kind of illness – 30.9 per cent4. Time limits when using the bathroom – 27.9 per cent5. No talking to colleagues unless in the break room – 20.2 per cent6. Not allowed to have a beard – 19.3 per cent7. No pictures, plants or anything personal on your desk – 19.1 per cent8. No wearing perfume to work – 13.2 per cent.9. No drinking tea while working – 11 per cent.10. No smoking in your own car on your way to work – 8.5 per cent

“While it can feel frustrating at times, rules are important for regulating the workplace,” says Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library.

“That said, it can be difficult for workers if they feel a lack of trust or respect from their bosses.

“After all, it’s not fair to enforce ridiculous rules that may impact employee’s wellbeing.

“If you feel the rules at your work are unfair, it might be time to discuss this with your boss – especially if they’re making you feel unhappy.

“If nothing changes, it might be time search for a new position with a more welcoming and trusting company culture.”

The survey also asked employees how they felt about these rules. It was revealed that two-thirds (67.6 per cent) of workers believe that bosses don’t have the right to enforce ridiculous and strange rules on their staff.

For more jobs news and career advice, log on to www.cv-library.co.uk