Momentum - Business to Business Online Magazine MOMENTUM January 2019 | Page 26

Business Etiquette Business Etiquette: Why It Matters! By: Doreen Hughes Open For Business Consulting, a John Maxwell Partner [email protected] We all have heard the words business etiquette, I know I have. Yes, it sounds like some of those old fashion words my English mother used back in the day. If you think business etiquette is a thing of the past, you couldn’t be more wrong! The lack of good business etiquette could possibly be the reason you may not have been promoted or was given the pink slip. Good business etiquette allows your business to put its best foot forward. It can protect business owners and employees from internal and external conflicts by setting a high standard for behavior, by all. Good business etiquette sets a tone for clients and customers that the business has a productive and successful environment and help the company's profitability. Today let look at the BIG 5! Arrive on Time, it Shows Respect In the business world, it is best to observe the old rule, “Five minutes early is late.” Arriving at a meeting exactly at the appointed time can make you feel rushed and you will look it. Time is a commodity; by being punctual, you show your respect for others. Dress Appropriately While appropriate dress certainly varies from field to field and climate to climate, some things remain the same. Dress for the job you want, not the job you have, is a good rule to follow. When in doubt, ask human resources personnel when you get the job or discreetly ask someone you work with. Show Interest With all our electronic gadgets today, when speaking with someone or being spoken to, show you are truly engaged. Start your own routine to stay in the moment. Depending on the situation, practice putting your phone on silent, place it face down so you don’t see it light-up, then you have the urge to check it. People will remember how you make them feel, nobody wants to feel as if they are being ignored. Mind Your Mouth Using vulgar language is a surefire way to become unpopular in your workplace. Vulgar language includes swear words and judgmental language. Business etiquette requires being constantly mindful of the diverse environment with people you do not know on a personal level. Speak as though someone from HR is always listening. Consume Correctly This is the BIG ONE! With the Christmas holiday season upon us, if you attend an after-hours work or social event, do not drink too much alcohol. People will certainly remember your behavior and they WILL talk and joke about it. This one will haunt you for a very long time, it is embarrassing and you will lose creditability! At the heart of these five basics business etiquette is diplomacy and business relationships. Taking care to treat everyone with care and kindness says a lot about who YOU are as a person! MOMENTUM / January 2019 25