Many 1960s workplace norms would be unthinkable in today’s offices.
The workplace has come a long way since the 1960s. Back then, office environments were worlds apart from what we see today, with practices that would now trigger lawsuits, social media outrage, or at the very least, some serious HR interventions. What was once considered normal—like smoking at your desk or blatantly discriminatory policies—is now viewed as outdated, unsafe, or downright unacceptable.
The cultural and legal shifts over the decades have redefined what is acceptable in professional settings, focusing on safety, equality, and respect. It’s a fascinating (and sometimes cringeworthy) look back at how much has changed—and a reminder of how much better off we are today.
1. Employers openly discriminated in job postings.
It wasn’t uncommon to see job ads in the 1960s that openly specified gender, age, and even appearance requirements, as outlined in Democracy Uprising. Listings for secretarial roles often requested “attractive young women,” while physical labor jobs were bluntly labeled “for men only.” Employers felt no need to disguise their biases, and such discrimination was widely accepted as standard practice. This blatant inequality shut out countless qualified candidates simply due to their gender, age, or race.
These days, such discriminatory language would violate equal employment opportunity laws. Job postings now focus on skills and experience, promoting inclusivity and diversity. The shift reflects not only legal standards but also a broader cultural push toward equity and fairness in hiring. While biases still exist, at least they can no longer be spelled out in black and white for everyone to see.
2. Smoking at your desk was totally normal.
Ashtrays were as common as staplers in 1960s offices, as History Facts reminds us. It wasn’t just allowed—it was practically expected. Smokers would light up during meetings, in shared spaces, and even while typing away at their desks. The smell of cigarettes hung in the air, and non-smokers had little choice but to breathe it in. Complaining about it would have likely gotten you a raised eyebrow, not a smoke-free space.
Nowadays, smoking in the workplace is not only frowned upon but also banned in most indoor environments. Health regulations and the rise of workplace wellness initiatives have shifted attitudes drastically. Today’s offices prioritize clean air, and employers focus on promoting healthier habits rather than accommodating a cloud of secondhand smoke.
3. Sexual harassment was often dismissed as “just office banter.”
The 1960s office culture was a minefield for inappropriate behavior, much of which was brushed off as harmless fun. Male bosses and colleagues felt free to make lewd comments, flirt aggressively, and even grope female employees without much consequence. Women were expected to smile and go along with it, as speaking up could lead to losing their jobs. Says Sasha Cohen writing for Time Magazine, “The turning point finally came in the mid-1970s, as the women’s liberation movement began to challenge a justice system — as well as a culture at large — that failed to recognize women’s consent.”
In today’s workplace, this behavior is considered sexual harassment and is taken very seriously. Companies have strict policies, mandatory training, and clear reporting processes to protect employees. The #MeToo movement helped push this cultural shift forward, emphasizing the importance of safe and respectful work environments. What was once normalized is now recognized for what it truly is—unacceptable and illegal.
4. Pregnant women were often forced to resign.
Pregnancy in the workplace was often seen as an inconvenience in the 1960s. Many employers had unwritten policies requiring pregnant women to leave their jobs as soon as they began to “show.” The rationale was often based on outdated notions of propriety or misguided concerns about workplace productivity. Some women were even pressured into resigning voluntarily to avoid the appearance of being fired.
Today, pregnancy discrimination is illegal under laws like the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978. Employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations and protect the rights of pregnant workers. Maternity leave policies and supportive workplace practices are now common, promoting an environment where women can balance work and family without fear of losing their livelihood.
5. Workplace safety was an afterthought.
Hard hats and safety protocols weren’t always part of the 1960s workplace. Many industries, particularly construction and manufacturing, had minimal safety regulations. It wasn’t unusual to see workers operating heavy machinery without proper gear or employees in offices surrounded by unsafe conditions like exposed wiring or asbestos-filled walls. Injuries were frequent, and there was little recourse if something went wrong.
Today, stringent safety regulations enforced by organizations like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) have transformed workplace environments. Employers are required to provide safety training, maintain hazard-free workplaces, and ensure that protective equipment is available. The shift toward safety-first cultures has saved countless lives and reduced workplace injuries significantly.
6. Women were routinely paid less than men for the same work.
While the gender pay gap still exists, it was far more blatant in the 1960s. Women often earned significantly less than their male counterparts, even when performing the same tasks. Many employers justified this disparity by suggesting that men were the breadwinners, while women’s incomes were considered “extra” or secondary.
The fight for equal pay has made strides since then, with laws like the Equal Pay Act of 1963 setting legal standards for pay equity. Though disparities remain, the push for transparency and fairness in wages has created more accountability and progress. It’s a stark contrast to the days when unequal pay was not just tolerated but openly practiced.
7. Workers could be fired for being LGBTQ+.
The 1960s were not a safe time to be openly LGBTQ+ in the workplace. Many employers had policies or unspoken practices of firing workers who were suspected of being gay. Discrimination based on sexual orientation was widely accepted, and there was little legal protection for those targeted.
Fast forward to today, and workplace protections for LGBTQ+ individuals have strengthened significantly. Many companies not only enforce non-discrimination policies but also actively support diversity and inclusion initiatives. While challenges remain, the progress since the 1960s is undeniable, offering safer and more supportive workplaces for all.
8. Drinking during work hours was a regular thing.
Having a few drinks during lunch—or even at your desk—was not unusual in the 1960s. Many offices, especially in industries like advertising and finance, kept fully stocked bars. After-hours drinks often started before the clock even struck five. It was seen as a way to build camaraderie and close business deals, often leading to blurry lines between professionalism and excess.
Today, workplace drinking is generally limited to occasional social events or after-hours gatherings. Companies now focus on maintaining professionalism during work hours, with stricter policies on alcohol consumption. The shift reflects a broader move toward maintaining healthy work environments and promoting productivity.
9. There was little work-life balance.
For many in the 1960s, work was expected to come first—always. The concept of work-life balance hadn’t really entered the conversation yet. Long hours, weekends at the office, and a lack of paid time off were often the norm. Employees were expected to be available at all times, with little regard for personal life or mental health.
Today, work-life balance is a priority for many businesses. Remote work options, flexible schedules, and mental health support are becoming standard. Employers recognize that a balanced, well-rested employee is more productive and engaged, leading to healthier workplaces and happier workers.
10. Racial segregation was a real thing.
The Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum in the 1960s, but many workplaces were still slow to integrate. It wasn’t uncommon for offices to segregate employees by race, limiting opportunities for minority workers and maintaining discriminatory practices. The racial divide in promotions, roles, and pay was stark and institutionalized.
Modern workplaces strive to promote diversity and inclusion, implementing policies and practices to support equity. While challenges persist, the shift from segregation to inclusion is one of the most significant cultural advancements in workplace history.
11. Physical punishment was sometimes used in training.
In certain industries, particularly manual labor and apprenticeships, rough “hands-on” training could cross the line into physical punishment. Supervisors might use force or intimidation to correct mistakes, a practice that would be unthinkable today.
Modern training focuses on education, respect, and support. Physical or verbal abuse is not only unacceptable but also illegal in professional settings. The emphasis is on creating a safe learning environment where employees can develop skills without fear.
12. Menial tasks were often assigned based on gender.
Women in the 1960s office environment were often relegated to tasks like making coffee, taking notes, or managing the office’s social calendar—regardless of their actual job title. Men, even junior staff, rarely performed these duties. It was just another way the workplace reinforced traditional gender roles.
Today, assigning tasks based on gender would be a quick path to an HR complaint. Modern workplaces emphasize equality and fair distribution of responsibilities, helping to dismantle outdated stereotypes and create a more balanced work environment.