There are norms of business etiquette that should never be broken. Some of them may appear obvious, but you could be shocked to learn how often you have overlooked an error. The basic rules of proper business etiquette from the best book of etiquette are following:
1. Handshake and Make Eye Contact:
Always greet people in business with a handshake and create direct eye contact. The ability to provide a solid handshake is still viewed favorably. A negative one is a weak one. Although the more senior person is expected to extend their hand first, you are free to do so as well. When you shake someone’s hand, make sure to make eye contact and smile. People who avoid looking at anything are stereotyped as being dishonest and insecure.
2. Introduce Yourself and Others:
You can usually tell when people have forgotten your name or title. If this sounds like you, it’s time to make an introduction or refresh people’s memories. Utilize the time to speak about yourself to your coworkers if you happen to be with a new hire. Having a pleasant coworker can make a big difference in how you feel about spending time there.
3. No Mobile during Meetings:
Put away your phone in off mode or in silent mode and pay attention in meetings. Ignore all incoming calls, texts and emails. It’s obnoxious and rude to the other people in the room. Because people continually losing interest in meetings and end up going on for much longer than necessary.
4. Do not Interrupt:
We have become “over-talkers,” cutting people off in the middle of their sentences to share our thoughts or make a point. When the conversation is hot, it can be extremely challenging to hold your tongue. Don’t. It’s impolite and displays a lack of consideration for other people’s feelings. Be confident, but not aggressive.
4. Be Polite and Professionals in all Form of Communications:
Always have a professional demeanor, whether you are speaking with someone in person, over the phone, or by electronic mail. The general vibe of voice, facial emotions, and other nonverbal indicators are lost in a text-only conversation. Always keep this in mind when composing an email. Keep your messages clear and to the point, but avoid saying anything you would not say face-to-face.
5. Always Be on Time:
Be punctual for everything you do, from showing up to work and a meeting to reaching deadline. Every second counts, when one team member misses a deadline, the rest of the group may be forced to make up for their absence. Everyone in the team needs to contribute equally. Without keeping close tabs on your progress, it’s possible to grossly underestimate how long it will take you to finish a given task or project.
Use a time monitoring program, such as Toggl Track, to see how long it takes you to finish projects. When you are late, you show a lack of respect for the time and needs of others. Be on time. If you know you won’t be able to make it on time, it’s important to let them know as soon as possible. Also, try not to be late. It’s best to get there around 5-10 minutes early for your appointment.
6. Avoid Gossips and or Eavesdropping:
Do not engage in gossip or eavesdropping, these actions are unprofessional and have absolutely no place in the working environment. Do not spread office gossip that you may have overheard.
While the originator of a rumor may not always be known or remembered, the person responsible for spreading it always will be. If you enter into a room and no one acknowledges your presence, be sure to introduce yourself to avoid overhearing any private conversations.
