Etiquette and good manners are often associated with a ball room dancing, white gloves, and cotillions. Some might even say it’s old – fashioned. Etiquette is a timeless practice, as its purpose is to show respect and make everyone feel valued, comfortable, and at ease. Good manners enabled me to be extremely successful in Corporate America and is the inspiration behind my Etiquette consulting business, Manor of Manners. I can’t help but think of this quote by Etiquette expert, Jeanne Nelson, “degree will get your foot in the door, good manners will open it.” In the US we refer good manners as good business and consider soft skills as a management tool. In fact, according a recent Stanford University study, 85 % of our success is based on our social skills. Honing one’s soft skills is a crucial element of achieving professional success. This week marks National Business Etiquette Week and I am honored to share 5 essential business etiquette tips. These tips will help you present yourself and your business with ease, class, and confidence.
1. Communication – is one of the most important skills you will have as a business professional. Your non-verbal communication skills need to convey a positive, professional, warm approach, because the client or business partner might not remember your name, but surely they will remember how you make them feel. Also, your verbal skills need to meet the necessary criteria for a business professional. Use polite words, do not use slang and bad language. While slang and the occasional curse word can give the illusion that you are relaxed, it often makes others uncomfortable.
2. Punctuality – In some countries, punctuality is not considered an essential element of professionalism but in the U.S. this is one of the most important components of a successful business. The U.S. believes time is money so being on time, shows your dedication to your job, business partners and clients. And respectively, indicates that you are capable of handling responsibilities. Let’s face it, who wants to work with a person, who doesn’t project a sense of commitment?
3. Proper attire – American culture values a relaxed look and formalities (especially in dress) can often seem outdated, especially here in San Diego. But how you dress has a meaning. Our attire reflects our presence and personality. Also, your attire demonstrates that you value and respect others and their events. There are basic guidelines for business attire, and we need to stay within them. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding what to wear to a certain event.
4. Cyber civility and social networking – we realize that over 300 million people are using Facebook and this number is growing. We really need to be aware about the posts we share, and always need to ask ourselves, “is this appropriate?” or “is it possible this post could hurt somebody’s feelings?” People should be able to exchange thoughts and ideas in a very civil manner, without being a target of abuse. Be sure to distinguish your personal profile from your business’ page.
5.Competition and conflict – Competition is an inevitable part of business. The way we handle competition and conflict reveals our true colors. While competition can leave a bad taste in your mouth, let’s try to look at its silver lining. Also, try replacing competition with collaboration. I collaborate with my competitors and as a result, we are able to refer clients and work to one another. Collaboration and “healthy” competition shows maturity and demonstrates that your passion trumps the need to win. No matter the case, conflict has to be handled with grace and dignity.
Learn more about my passions and expertise by visiting my website, ManorOfManners.com.
Mary-Anne with her Young Gentlemen’s program graduates.
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This guest blog was written in observation of National Business Etiquette Week by Mary-Anne Parker, Etiquette, Protocol, Communication, Leadership Consultant & Founder of Manor of Manners.
