These 19 Workplace Practices from the 1960s Would Get You Fired Today
The workplace of the 1960s was a different world compared to today. Many practices that were considered normal back then would be completely unacceptable—or even illegal—today.
From casual sexism to lack of safety regulations, the office culture of the past was riddled with behaviors that would shock modern employees. Let’s take a look at 19 workplace practices from the 1960s that would never be allowed in today’s work environments.
Smoking Indoors
In the 1960s, smoking at your desk or during meetings was the norm. Ashtrays were common office supplies, and it wasn’t unusual to see a haze of smoke indoors.
Today, strict regulations ban smoking in workplaces, prioritizing employee health and safety.
Openly Sexist Job Listings
Job ads in the 1960s often specified gender, with many roles exclusively for men. Women were typically offered secretarial or clerical roles, reinforcing gender stereotypes.
Modern labor laws ensure job listings cannot discriminate based on gender.
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Casual Sexual Harassment
Comments about appearance, unsolicited advances, and inappropriate jokes were commonplace. Back then, such behavior was often brushed off or ignored.
Today, sexual harassment is taken seriously, and workplaces enforce strict anti-harassment policies.
Pay Disparities Based on Gender
In the 1960s, it was common for women to earn significantly less than men for doing the same job. Equal pay laws were not enforced, and the wage gap was blatant.
Today, while the pay gap still exists, legal frameworks protect against pay discrimination based on gender.
Mandatory Office Socializing After Hours
Employees were often expected to attend after-hours events like dinners or drinks with coworkers. This was seen as part of building camaraderie, even if it meant neglecting personal time.
Today, employees are more mindful of work-life balance, and after-hours events are not mandatory.
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No Parental Leave for Fathers
In the 1960s, parental leave was rare, and it was strictly for mothers. Fathers weren’t granted any time off to bond with their newborns.
Today, many companies offer paternity leave and encourage fathers to take time off for family.
No Air Conditioning in Offices
Air conditioning wasn’t a given in every workplace, especially in older buildings. Employees often endured hot, uncomfortable conditions during the summer months.
Now, air conditioning is a standard feature in most office environments to ensure employee comfort.
Unregulated Work Hours
The concept of a 9-to-5 workday was loosely followed in many places. Employees were often expected to work long hours without overtime pay or compensation.
Today, labor laws enforce regulated hours, overtime pay, and limits on how long employees can work.
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Lack of Workplace Safety Standards
In the 1960s, many workplaces lacked proper safety regulations. Employees often worked in hazardous conditions without protective gear.
Today, strict occupational safety laws and regulations are in place to ensure the well-being of workers.
Women Required to Wear Skirts
Office dress codes for women were strict, often requiring them to wear skirts or dresses. Pantsuits were considered unprofessional for women in many workplaces.
Today, most workplaces allow women to wear pants, and dress codes are more flexible and gender-neutral.
Drinking Alcohol During Work Hours
It wasn’t uncommon for employees to have a drink or two during lunch or even in the office. Office parties often featured alcohol during work hours, without concern for productivity or professionalism.
In today’s workplace, drinking during work hours is generally unacceptable and could lead to disciplinary action.
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Lack of Racial Diversity in the Workplace
Racial discrimination in hiring practices was widespread, and many offices were predominantly white. Equal opportunity employment laws didn’t exist to protect against racial discrimination.
Today, diversity and inclusion initiatives are standard in most workplaces, and discrimination is illegal.
Secretaries Expected to Do Personal Errands
It was common for secretaries to run personal errands for their bosses, like picking up dry cleaning or buying gifts. This role extended far beyond work-related tasks.
Now, personal errands are considered outside the scope of professional duties and are no longer acceptable.
No Privacy in Open Workspaces
In many offices, privacy was nonexistent, with employees working in large open spaces without cubicles or personal space. Personal phone calls and discussions were overheard by everyone.
Today, even in open offices, there are designated private areas for personal conversations.
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No Anti-Discrimination Policies
There were few, if any, policies to protect workers from discrimination based on race, gender, or age. Employees had little recourse if they faced discrimination in the workplace.
Today, anti-discrimination policies are a legal requirement in most workplaces.
Hiring Based on Appearance
Attractive applicants, especially women, were often hired based on their looks rather than their qualifications. Appearance was frequently prioritized over skills for certain roles.
Today, hiring based on appearance is considered discriminatory and highly unethical.
No Sick Leave
Many employees in the 1960s didn’t have the luxury of paid sick leave. They were expected to come to work even when they were ill, spreading germs to others.
Today, most employers offer paid sick leave to prioritize health and prevent workplace illness.
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Smoking in Meetings
In the 1960s, it wasn’t just individual workspaces where smoking was allowed—people would light up during meetings. This created an unhealthy and uncomfortable environment for non-smokers.
Smoking is now strictly prohibited in meetings and office spaces in most countries.
Accepting Bribes or Gifts from Clients
In some industries, it was common for employees to accept bribes or extravagant gifts from clients or business partners. Today, such practices are considered unethical and could lead to legal repercussions.
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