As times alter, so do social standards for individual and proficient behavior, but that doesn’t cruel essential behavior doesn’t matter. We now and then disregard that commerce is almost individuals. There’s no deficiency of competent and reliable individuals within the commerce world and conduct can make the contrast. Wouldn’t you or maybe collaborate with, work for, or purchase from somebody who has tall guidelines of proficient behavior?
Following these 15 time-tested rules of better behavior is a great place to start.
- Introducing Others: Always introduce people to each other when the opportunity arises, unless you know they already know each other. This makes people feel valued, regardless of their status or position.
- Greetings are Still the Professional Standard: Shaking hands is still the professional standard. Besides showing that you are polite, confident, and approachable, it also sets the tone for potential future professional relationships.
- Always Say “Thank You” and “Please”: This should come as second nature, but even in the most casual work atmosphere, these basic forms of politeness are still important. Today, sending a thank you email is completely accepted, but a handwritten thank you note always touches the heart.
- Don’t Interrupt: We have become a nation of “over-talkers,” so eager to offer our own opinions or push our arguments that we often interrupt others while they are speaking. It can be very difficult to refrain from interrupting, especially when the discussion gets heated. Don’t do it. This is rude and shows disrespect for other people’s opinions. Remember, be bold, not aggressive.
- Watch Your Language: Verbal and written communications are often much less formal than in the past, but be careful in choosing your words. Of course, derogatory, rude or offensive language is unacceptable, as is slang. While it may be common in our society, it is never accepted in a professional setting.
- Check Before Sending: While we are talking about communication, always check your emails for spelling and grammatical errors. Since the introduction of spell checker, there is no excuse for typos. Additionally, do a quick read to determine the meaning and tone you want to convey.
- Don’t Enter People’s Offices Unannounced: It is very rude to assume that you have the right to interrupt other people’s work. Knock on the door or say hello if it’s open and ask if it’s a good time to talk. If the discussion will last more than a few minutes, it’s better to call or email and schedule a convenient time for both.
- Don’t Backbite: Sometimes it’s hard to refrain from indulging in a little “harmless” gossip, but the truth is that gossip is never harmless. This definitely hurts the subject of gossip, but it also reflects badly on you. It’s natural to be curious and interested in what others are doing, but talking about someone who isn’t present is disrespectful.
- Don’t Listen to Other People’s Secrets: Everyone has the right to private conversations, whether in person or by telephone. The same goes for email; don’t stand over someone’s shoulder and read their email.
- Acknowledge Others: When someone approaches you, acknowledge their presence. If you’re in the middle of something important, ask them to wait a moment while you finish your work. If you pass someone in the hallway or on the street, but don’t have time to talk, at least raise your hand and say hello. Being busy is not an excuse to ignore other people.
- Avoid the “Big Two” Topics: We have blurred many personal and professional lines, but politics and religion should still be avoided. These topics are a very minefield for the work environment. Leave them at the office door.
- For Better, Timely Business Etiquette: We’re all busy. Compliance shows others that you respect their time. Being late doesn’t mean you’re busier than anyone else; it just means you don’t respect their time.
- No Cell Phones During Meetings: When you are in a meeting, be present. Don’t take calls, send text messages, or check email. This is disrespectful towards other participants, not to mention very distracting. This also makes meetings take longer because participants keep losing focus.
- Don’t Be a Business Card Salesman: Don’t just hand out business cards to everyone you meet. This is a bit aggressive unless you are on a sales call. Ask for someone else’s card, offer to swap cards, or at the very least, ask if you can leave yours behind before you look in your pockets.
- Show Genuine Interest: Maintain eye contact and try to really listen to what the other person is saying. We are so easily distracted in this climate of ever-shortening attention spans; often we can’t wait for someone else to finish so we can move on to the next thing. Resist the temptation of distraction and speed. Take time to ask questions and show interest in other people’s thoughts.
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