Whether you’re a newbie in the business world or you’ve been at it for a long time, there are specific skills you need to learn to be successful in your career. Your relationships with others matter if you want to build a powerful personal brand.
Depending on your location and the kind of business you’re involved in, there are many unwritten rules and expectations about body language, dress code, communication, and even your eating etiquette since you might meet up with people regularly.
Regardless of the kind of business you do, whether you own a company that develops online casino games or you’re into marketing or innovation, here are some general professional etiquettes to follow to leave a good impression on others and run a successful business.
Workplace Etiquette
If you own a company and are in charge of laying down the rules in your workplace, you must ensure that you don’t abuse those rules, even if it’s in your power to do so, and no one is going to reprimand you for it.
For instance, if your workplace regulations state that everyone in the building should wear a safety device, don’t break the rule just because you don’t answer to anyone. This is an excellent example of leading by example because people don’t respect leaders who don’t follow their own rules.
Here are other examples of practicing good etiquette at work.
- Saying hi to everyone you meet. It takes nothing to be friendly. Maintaining a good relationship with your employees can increase their trust in you and make them feel more relaxed, boosting their productivity.
- Actively listen to the concerns of your employees. Don’t just pretend to listen. If a team member files a complaint before you, take the time to find out the issue and the most appropriate way to solve that problem.
- There is no need to overshare at work. Although it is recommended that you are friendly, nobody wants to hear details of your personal life. You should not speak about sensitive topics like religion or politics so as not to piss anyone off.
- Have respect for other people’s time. Do not keep other people waiting without reason, and if you do for some reason, apologize and tell them why you’re late. Let your 10 am be 10 am.
Table Manners and Meal Etiquette
There are so many rules for table manners that it can be challenging to keep track of them all. However, these are the basic rules you should never forget.
- While ordering, observe how much everyone else is spending and stay within that range.
- Don’t eat your food if everyone else hasn’t received theirs.
- Always place a napkin on your thighs before you eat.
- Don’t talk with a mouth full of food.
- Do not pass condiments across the table. Instead, pass them sideways.
- Do not dominate the conversation.
- Don’t snap your fingers to get the attention of the server.
- Don’t blow your nose at the table. Instead, excuse yourself and make your way to the restroom.
- When you’re done with your meal, fold the napkin and place it on the left side of your plate.
It may seem unnecessary, but people notice these mannerisms, and if you’re having dinner with a potential client, it is essential to give a good impression, or you might risk losing the deal.
Professionalism
Professionalism involves many behaviours that contribute to a conducive work environment. To be successful, you must maintain the following professional etiquette:
1. Follow through on your promises
Make a promise or commitment to do something, no matter how small, and follow through. If, for some reason, you won’t be able to keep your word, let the person know beforehand.
2. Always be punctual
There is a saying: “punctuality is the soul of business.” If you don’t respect other people’s time, they can feel insulted and disrespected.
3. Stay calm in heated situations
It can be tempting to flare up, especially if you think you’re right. Resist the urge to escalate arguments.
4. Be kind
You will come across annoying clients and employees. Don’t be rude to anyone, but treat everyone with respect.
5. Dress well
Your appearance speaks before your expertise does. Look your best at all times and follow dress codes when appropriate.
Communication Etiquette
There are different methods of communication in the business world. You can communicate via phone, email, or in person. Here are some communication etiquette guidelines that apply to these situations.
On the phone
- Don’t be too loud or talk over other people when you’re in their presence.
- Keep your tone professional but not irritated. If you’re in a meeting and you’re not contributing to the discussion, keep your phone on mute.
Via email
- Answer all important emails immediately or schedule an appropriate time to reply in less than three days.
- Keep it professional and avoid the use of emojis.
- Check for grammar and spelling errors before sending.
- Do not cause a rift over email.
In-Person
- Don’t make comments about a person’s skin or general appearance.
- Maintain eye contact frequently.
- Be an active listener.
- Don’t speak too loudly.
Meeting Etiquette
You can have in-person meetings and virtual meetings. Here are general etiquette guidelines to follow in a meeting.
- Be aware of time zones so you don’t arrive for a virtual meeting late or early.
- Introduce new members to the rest of the team.
- Test your equipment before the meeting.
- Don’t interrupt other people while they’re speaking.
For virtual meetings,
- Look directly at the camera.
- Stay in a serene environment.
- Dress appropriately
- If you’re in charge of the meeting, ensure everyone is contributing.
Conclusion
Being successful as an entrepreneur goes beyond hard work and talent. You need to form good relationships with people, practice kindness, and treat everyone else with respect to be awarded the same respect. Nobody wants to do business with someone who is rude, uncouth, and disrespectful. If you want your business to become world-class and successful, follow the tips in this article.