Assignment 1a An Introduction to Business Etiquette and ...

Assignment 1a

An Introduction to Business Etiquette and Professionalism:
A Few Rules

Quite simply, etiquette means treating others the way you would like to be treated or
proper behavior in either a business or social setting. Some refer to etiquette as applying
the “Golden Rule” philosophy-do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Today’s work world is a busy, complex place and those who take the time to apply rules of
business etiquette and pay attention to detail are well on their way up the slippery ladder of
success! Listed below are a few rules for proper business etiquette in today’s work place.

Rules of Twelve in Business Etiquette!

• Always use a form of thank you in the first 12 words you speak
before and after a job interview and in the letter you write after the
interview. The thank you letter should be written no later than one
day following the interview.

• The first 12 inches from your head down should be well groomed
and wear a smile.

• The first 12 steps you should take should be taken with your head
up and walk with confidence.

• The last 12 inches from the floor to your mid-calf should be
impeccable.

• It takes 12 seconds to make a first impression and the rest of your
life to change it, if it’s a bad one.

Avoiding the 10 Most Commonly Made Business Etiquette Faux Pas

Assuming that all business associates want to be called by
their FIRST name.

• Sending out sloppy looking or poorly written
letters, memos, or other correspondence.

• Mistreating secretaries, assistants, or co-workers
of business associates.

• Displaying a cavalier attitude on the phone.

• Being lax about making and keeping business appointments.

• Smoking in the wrong places. Please ask if you may smoke except
in designated smoking areas.

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• Giving conflicting signals about who picks up the business lunch
bill. The one who initiates the meal, pays for the meal.

• Talking only about business at a business and social event.

• Inviting superiors out socially first.

• Failing to put “thank you’s” in writing.

Guidelines for Business Introductions:

• Stand up.

• Smile.

• Always shake hands, and do so firmly.

• Make eye contact.

• Repeat the other person’s name in
conversation.

• Introduce the person in a lower rank to a
person of a higher rank.

• Introduce a customer to a supervisor. Say the customer’s name first.

Example: “John Smith, I would like you to meet our
department head, Sue Jones.”

• Introduce your supervisor to a job candidate. Say the supervisor’s
name first.

Example: “Bill Jones, I would like you to meet Wendy
White, who has just graduated from ABC University.”

• Anyone who is introduced to another person
should stand to shake hands. Going out from
behind your desk is even more gracious.

• When you shake hands, look the other
person in the eye and smile. Doing so
demonstrates friendliness and openness.

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Telephone Etiquette Tips:

Using this form of technology is a skill. When talking with others, the way you conduct
yourself on the phone can be a key factor in their decision to work with you.

• Be prepared – Always have paper and pencil
within your reach and when you place the call,
always have any information to be discussed
readily at hand.

• Answer promptly -- NO later than the third ring.

• Be pleasant -- Project your best self on the
telephone. Have a smile in your voice.

• Identify yourself -- Whenever calling or
answering. State the reason for your call when you are the
calling party.

• Respect others’ time -- Ask if the person has a minute, or if this
is a good time to talk. Asking is especially important if the
conversation includes a lengthy discussion.

• Getting your calls returned -- Say when and where you can be
reached. The more specific you are, the more professionally you
will be perceived. When you leave a message leave all pertinent
information. And never forget to leave your telephone number
even if the person has it already. They may not be in their office
when they return your call

• Ask rather than put someone on hold -- Ask permission, such as
“May I put you on hold?” NEVER leave someone on hold for
more than 30 to 60 seconds. And never let yourself get
distracted and forget someone on hold.

• Be respectful -- Let the person know that you appreciate his or
her patience. When returning to the line, say “Thank you for
waiting…”

• Call waiting -- This device is only as good as the person who
uses it. Be selective in taking another call when you are talking
to someone.

• Screen call appropriately -- "Who’s calling please?” or “May I
tell her who is calling?”

• Use good speech habits -- Say “One moment please”, “She is
not available right now,” “Goodbye.”, “Thank you,” etc.

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