BASSETERRE St. Kitts - BUSINESS etiquette is made up of significantly more important things than knowing how to answer the phone professionally. Etiquette is about presenting yourself with the kind of shine that shows you can be taken seriously. It is also about being comfortable around people while making them comfortable around you.
People are a key factor in the success of any business. Many potentially worthwhile and profitable alliances have been lost because of a breach of manners. Most behaviour perceived as disrespectful or discourteous is often unintentional and could have been avoided by practicing good business etiquette.
Many persons have found that most negative experiences with another was unintended, and was easily repaired by keeping an open mind and maintaining honest communication. Basic knowledge and practice of decorum is a valuable advantage, because in many business situations a second chance to make a good impression is not possible.
There are many tips on how to display good business etiquette, but the most important thing to remember is to be courteous and thoughtful to the people around you, regardless of the situation.
Consider other people’s feelings. Address conflict as situation-related rather than a personal ‘stab’ at you, and always apologise when you step on toes.
Avoid raising your voice, using harsh or belittling language toward anyone (present or absent), or interrupting when someone else is speaking. You may not get as much ‘airtime’, but what you say will be much more effective because it carries the weight of credibility and respect.
The only thing you owe your superiors beyond what you owe your co-workers is more information. Be sure that he or she is always aware of what you are doing, is alerted as early as possible on issues that may arise, and is informed of outcomes. Never surprise your boss. It goes without saying that you should always speak highly of superiors within and outside the company.
Speak well of your co-workers and always point out their accomplishments to any interested party.
Whenever meetings are to be held, always be considerate of the participants’ time and ensure that they [meetings] are well prepared. Be sure to thank the attendees for their time and participation, and always demonstrate how their contributions assisted in meeting the intended objectives.
It can be insulting to superiors, co-workers and clients if one shows a lack of concern about appearance. Being unkempt communicates (intentionally or not) that you do not care enough about the situation, the people or the company to present yourself respectably.
Always practice impeccable grooming.
Always return calls. When you initiate a call and get a receptionist or secretary, identify yourself and explain the basic nature of your intention. In that way, you will be ensured of communicating with the right person or department to gather the appropriate information you require.
When you are on the receiving end of a phone call, identify yourself and your department. Answer the phone with warmth. If you are being interrupted, the person on the other end would not know that, therefore, do not be impatient. Not being face-to-face with a person does not make it acceptable to be rude.
Avoid interruptions, if possible, at all times. If interruption is necessary, always apologise. Quickly state the nature of what you need and show consideration for the fact that you are interrupting valuable work in progress, or an important discussion.
It is important to note that etiquette in other cultures requires a bit of adaptation and flexibility. If you are on a business trip to a foreign destination, or have visitors, it is a good idea to learn as much as you possibly can about their culture.
Never treat people differently because of their corporate rank. Always show respect and courtesy to everyone, regardless of their position or the company they represent. Having a consistent demeanour improves your credibility.
There are many advantages to having good business etiquette, and these advantages extend farther than just on the part of the business.
Good business etiquette adds to the goodwill you share in your organisation. Goodwill has always been an asset and it can help you in many ways. It gives you a reputation that you can be proud of, and it increases your value as an employee. It also leads to self-development and professionalism.
Practising decorum helps in being a diligent and hardworking employee whose service will always be in demand. If there is project that needs to be done with a very high degree of perfection, you will be the first person the employers will select. One the other hand, if there have to be lay-offs in your company due to economic depression or any other reason, your employers would want to hold back on employees such as you.
If you work efficiently and with genuineness, your product will certainly be the best. There will be times when you will exceed expectations in the company and set examples for other employees to follow. This will lead to more efficient work, more business and eventually more profits.
There is a reason why decorum in the workplace plays such an important role, and it is your responsibility to ensure it is ever-present. Everyone is liable for the responsibility of doing their work genuinely and this can be achieved by practising good business etiquette.
