fully understand that you may want to maintain professional boundaries in an office environment. While cleaners are an integral part of the office and there is no need to avoid them completely, I will offer some suggestions on how to politely limit interactions: 1. **Simply nod or smile**: When you encounter a cleaner, give a friendly nod or smile to show that you appreciate their presence. This is a respectful way to acknowledge their presence without engaging in a long conversation. 2. **Avoid small talk**: While being friendly, you can avoid starting small talk. This means not asking them personal questions or engaging in non-work related conversations. 3. **Keep interactions work-related**: If you need to ask a cleaner for a favor or ask a question, keep the interaction work-related. For example, you could ask them when they will come in for extra cleaning in a specific area or to drop off supplies. 4. **Respect their time**: When interacting with cleaners, remember that their primary responsibility is to keep the office clean. Avoid excessive conversation with them or asking them to do things that are not part of their job description. 5. **Use professional communication**: If you need to arrange special cleaning services or report an issue with a cleaner, use professional communication methods (such as email or speaking to the facilities team). 6. **Consider their schedule**: Be aware of your cleaner’s schedule and try to interact with them when they’re not busy or performing their daily duties. 7. **Be considerate and appreciative**: Show appreciation and consideration for the cleaner’s efforts in keeping the office clean and comfortable. Some phrases to avoid that may make the cleaner feel uncomfortable or underestimated include: * “You’re just here to clean, right?” * “Why are you there?” * “Can you handle this?” (unless it’s a work-related task) * Using slang or terminology that could be construed as disparaging Remember, it’s crucial to always be respectful, considerate, and professional when dealing with cleaners (or any office staff).