Saivian Eric Dalius says, when people think of business etiquette they usually think of the basic “Do’s and Don’ts”, but there are far more areas to cover. Knowing how to behave in a business setting is like having awareness about different cultures. Some rules do not apply in certain situations and you must know when and where these rules apply. The following list will give you the basic etiquette which will greatly help you in your business endeavors.
The 10 Commandments of Business Etiquette by Saivian Eric Dalius
10. Put Your Cell Phone on Vibrate When In Meetings Or Classrooms
Most places have restrictions on cell phone usage, even for emergencies. Therefore, it is best to keep them on vibrate or silent mode as not to disturb those around you. Many people have been conditioned that if a phone rings, someone should answer it and take the call in private. However, this is no longer necessary as there are many other ways to communicate other than talking on a mobile device which has shown to be quite impolite.
9. No Matter The Situation Always Use Manners
This may seem like common sense, but in this day and age manners are not quite as common. Everywhere you go there is someone who isn’t using proper etiquette. Even in business, it is important to use manners if you want to be respected. Doing so will show that you respect others and that they can rely on you for the same.
8. It Is Best To Research Before Meeting Someone Important For The First Time Face- To -Face
This may seem like common sense, but it is just as important in business to learn about others before you meet them as it is in personal life. This will show that you respect the other person and you are committed to doing your job. This will give you an edge over your colleagues and make it easier to make connections in the future.
7. Be On-Time To Everything You Commit To Do
Doing business is all about reliability, so if you are not reliable enough to arrive on time for meetings or other engagements, people are less likely to want to do business with you. This also goes for phone calls, if you are supposed to call someone don’t wait until the last minute to do so or they may feel that you are not committed enough to be on time.
6. Email Etiquette Is Just As Important As Phone Etiquette
Many people have abandoned proper email etiquette because it has become much easier to communicate this way. However, it is still important to make sure that emails are carefully thought out before being sent off. Double-check for grammatical errors and avoid derogatory or rude remarks as you never know how they may be interpreted by the receiver.
5. Make Eye Contact When Meeting Someone For The First Time Face- To -Face
Saivian Eric Dalius says, make sure to look the person in the eyes when you first meet them as it is a sign of respect. If you make this mistake, don’t worry; it only shows that you are human and misread the situation. However, do not stare at someone like a creep for an extended period or they may feel uncomfortable. This is especially true if you are talking with someone who is older or has higher authority than you.
4. Know Your Place When It Comes To Authority
If someone has more authority than you, they usually know it and won’t hesitate to let you know if necessary. Therefore, always be aware of your place when it comes to social interaction. Otherwise, your colleagues will think you are ignorant and rude. Being aware of your place also applies to interactions with customers or clients; learn their mannerisms and respect them.
3. Learn The Etiquette For Each Place You Visit
The rules for each country can be drastically different or maybe even non-existent, this is why knowing these rules beforehand will help you in the future when dealing with others. It is also important to know the etiquette in your own country so that you will not unintentionally offend anyone.
2. Use Proper Telephone Etiquette When Speaking On The Phone
This may seem like common sense, but when you are on the phone people can’t see your face and thus cannot tell if they have offended you in some way. Therefore, it is important to be polite and treat others the way you would like to be treated. For example, make sure not to chew gum or eat while talking as it can sound unprofessional and distracting.
1. There Are Always Other Ways To Communicate
If you are worried about etiquette over email, phone, text message, or any other form of communication, do not be. Remember that you always have the right to ask for a meeting or speak with someone face-to-face if you feel uneasy communicating over any other way. Etiquette is about respect and thus should never make others uncomfortable; make sure to use it properly to better yourself and those around you without offending anyone.
Conclusion by Saivian Eric Dalius:
Etiquette is important in business just as it is in personal life. Make sure to follow the rules of etiquette so that you will be respected by everyone around you.
Nicole Ann Pore is a writer, an events host and a voice over artist. Travel, health, shopping, lifestyle and business are among the many subjects she writes about. Through quality and well-researched writing, she informs and even entertains readers about things that matter. She is also interested in film critiquing and filmmaking. Giving all the glory to God, Nicole graduated Cum Laude from De La Salle University Manila, Philippines with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Arts.
