Business etiquette isn't a complicated puzzle. Basic manners and respect are simple and straightforward, but there are more ways to enhance the way you interact with your clients and team members professionally. We want to give you a friendly reminder on the ways that you can enhance and maintain your professionalism through your business as National Business Etiquette Week rolls in.
Whether you're working in-person or remote, explore our five tips for maintaining professional business etiquette.
1. Make sure to be punctual
Being on time is crucial for maintaining professional business etiquette. Whether it's for a meeting, opening your shop, or attending an appointment, punctuality demonstrates respect for others' time and commitment. When you make it a habit of consistently arriving on time, you'll have a positive reputation for yourself and instill trust from others. Planning to arrive at least 5 to 10 minutes earlier gives you a buffer to account for any unexpected delays as well. In regards to remote work, it would be appreciated if you could join the meeting room 5 minutes early, ensuring that all participants are ready to start on time. Remember, time is your ally!
2. Practice effective communication
Communication as a whole represents your professionalism in various ways. From active listening to maintaining eye contact, these actions convey your respect for the other person while demonstrating your attentiveness. Communication is more than just talking as your body language and actions speak volumes about your business etiquette. Even the simple gesture of offering a handshake before and after meeting someone will affect their impression of you. When communicating online, consider muting yourself when others are speaking to prevent external noises from disturbing the conversation. A simple rule of thumb is to be friendly and present in the moment when greeting or talking to others.
3. Maintain phone etiquette
Business etiquette extends to every aspect of your interactions and connections you have with your business. Answering calls promptly, maintaining a polite tone of voice, and clearly identifying yourself are essential parts of professional phone etiquette. Additionally, when you speak to clients over the phone, it's important to refrain from using slang and instead speak with clarity. Whether it's over the phone or in-person, your clients are sure to appreciate your business when spoken to with respect.
4. Proofread for typos and grammar
One way to show that you're serious about your business is to proofread for any grammar and typo errors before you hit send. Catching these mistakes will help you avoid any misunderstandings and demonstrate respect for the person reading your message or content. These errors can pop out anywhere, from emails and chat messages to business flyers and newsletters. It may seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in how you're perceived in the digital scheme of business.
5. Remember your team members' names
This tip may appear obvious, yet it can have a significant impact on your relationships and team dynamics. Few things are more frustrating than repeatedly being called the wrong name or having to remind someone of it multiple times. Paying attention shows that you're making an effort to correctly address team members, and it's definitely the bare minimum.
Don't overthink it! Being yourself on top of respectable business etiquette is the key that holds everything all together. You should feel comfortable in your own skin while understanding the principles of professionalism and respect. This balance shows that you're authentic in your interactions and love for the business that you run.
Author: Gary Wong
How do you practice positive business etiquette?
Feel free to let us know in the comments below!
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About Stingray Advisory Group LLC: Stingray Advisory Group LLC is based in Grand Rapids,
Michigan, and is a proud member of People First Economy and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. We help businesses thrive. By improving our client's sales over 60%, reducing their expenses and boosting their engagement by 40% or more, we enable our clients to refocus on what they love.
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