In the business world, it’s not always what you do—but how you do it. The smallest of gestures can do everything from impress to insult, and in a competitive business environment, you will always be judged on how you conduct yourself.
To avoid business etiquette faux pas, keep these tips top of mind:
- Make sure your business cards are clean, neat or protected in a card case.
- Don’t write on someone’s business card, if not instructed to do so.
- Avoid letting your phone ring during a business meeting or meal, or (worse) taking the call without excusing yourself.
- Always leave your telephone number in voice messages to make it easy to return your call.
- Keep a voice message to 90 seconds or less to be respectful of the receiver’s time.
- Arrive on time—or early—to business meetings, meals or other gatherings.
- Make the conversation about the other person, not you—by using your active listening skills.
- Ask conversational (not controversial) questions to create dialogue or small talk.
- Avoid sensitive topics such as religion, politics and money.
- Know your dining etiquette—including how to properly use dinnerware.
Need more assistance? Dardis Communications’ Professional Presence, Image & Etiquette seminar may be for you!