Why rudeness is a mistake

YOU may want to think twice before making that cheeky comment about your colleague's garish tie - researchers say that rudeness in the workplace makes you more likely to make mistakes.

Psychology professor Rhona Flin said studies showed that if someone is rude to you at work - or even if you merely witness rudeness - the chances of you making errors increase.

Writing in the British Medical Journal, Prof Flin warned that being polite at work may have greater benefits than simply creating a harmonious environment.

Last year, it was reported that two Northwest Airlines pilots flying from San Diego to Mineapolis became so engrossed in a "heated discussion over airline policy" that they "lost situational awareness" and overshot the airport by 150 miles before being alerted by a crew member.