Business Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts
The Do’s and Don’ts of Business Etiquette
We live in a world where business is about relationships. We do business with people that we like. People that we know and trust. It is therefore imperative that we present ourselves authentically, with honesty and integrity but also take into account the simple yet profound practice of business etiquette. Etiquette, in its basic form, is practicing good manners; knowing how to behave in a given situation and knowing how to interact with people in a way that shows respect for them. Proper etiquette helps you make a great first impression and stand out in a competitive market. We’d like to discuss with you some of the ‘rules’ that matter. One of these that quickly springs to mind for many people when asked is punctuality. Richard Cecil said: “If I have made an appointment with you, I owe you punctuality; I have no right to throw away your time, if I do my own.” Some other points to consider in terms of business etiquette, include giving those you are in a meeting with or speaking to, your undivided attention. In other words, focus on the face, not the screen. It is a digital world and can be challenging not to be distracted with the plethora of devices at our disposal. There also seems to be a pervading consciousness that says we have to multi-task in order to feel efficient and productive. It is really more effective to pay attention and be fully present. Remember that the so-called ‘old-fashioned’ virtues of common courtesy and manners will go a long way towards presenting yourself positively, in your professional as well as personal capacity. Simple things such as saying ‘Please’ and ‘Thank-you’, making eye contact and shaking hands warmly and firmly, smiling - all convey a confidence and self-respect which in turn inspire others to respect you. Business etiquette is like a key – it locks the doors of poor communication and misunderstandings and opens doors to successful business relationships.
We live in a world where business is about relationships. We do business with people that we like. People that we know and trust. It is therefore imperative that we present ourselves authentically, with honesty and integrity but also take into account the simple yet profound practice of business etiquette. Etiquette, in its basic form, is practicing good manners; knowing how to behave in a given situation and knowing how to interact with people in a way that shows respect for them. Proper etiquette helps you make a great first impression and stand out in a competitive market. We’d like to discuss with you some of the ‘rules’ that matter. One of these that quickly springs to mind for many people when asked is punctuality. Richard Cecil said: “If I have made an appointment with you, I owe you punctuality; I have no right to throw away your time, if I do my own.” Some other points to consider in terms of business etiquette, include giving those you are in a meeting with or speaking to, your undivided attention. In other words, focus on the face, not the screen. It is a digital world and can be challenging not to be distracted with the plethora of devices at our disposal. There also seems to be a pervading consciousness that says we have to multi-task in order to feel efficient and productive. It is really more effective to pay attention and be fully present. Remember that the so-called ‘old-fashioned’ virtues of common courtesy and manners will go a long way towards presenting yourself positively, in your professional as well as personal capacity. Simple things such as saying ‘Please’ and ‘Thank-you’, making eye contact and shaking hands warmly and firmly, smiling - all convey a confidence and self-respect which in turn inspire others to respect you. Business etiquette is like a key – it locks the doors of poor communication and misunderstandings and opens doors to successful business relationships.