Business Etiquette: Why is it so important?

Etiquette, in simple words, refers to good behavior that distinguishes humans from animals. Business etiquette is a means to maximize your business potential. How you present yourself to others speaks volumes about your personality. Behavior matters as much as talent or skill does.

What does Business Etiquette entail?

Business Etiquette is a combination of many factors.

Here are a few of them:

1. General Corporate Etiquette

Every employee needs to maintain the decorum of the organization they work in. Corporate Etiquette entails how an individual should behave while they are at work. Listening with attention, not interrupting when others talk, and always being mindful of the tone and language are some examples of general corporate etiquette.

2. Dressing Etiquette

Dressing etiquette refers to dressing as per your company's dress code. Wearing business attire demonstrates professionalism and creates a positive impression on others. Dressing plays an important role in maintaining your business etiquette. Business clothing should be clean, ironed, well-fitted, and suitable for a professional setting.

Employees should avoid casual, extremely loose, or flashy outfits. Such clothing reflects badly on the employee, their team, and the business they're working for.

3. Electronic Etiquette

These days, most of the business communication is done through digital media. Electronic etiquette refers to the proper and professional use of such electronic communication tools. These tools can be messaging apps, video communication clients, and emails.

Here are some tips to follow electronic etiquette:

• Emails: Email should have a proper subject line, greeting and a concise message body.

• Messaging: Use clear language and avoid slang, informal language, emojis, or all caps when messaging colleagues, seniors, or even subordinates.

• Video Conferences: Logging in on time and muting when not speaking in video meetings is good professional etiquette.

4. Table & Meeting Etiquette

Meeting Etiquette refers to the mannerisms one needs to adopt when they are attending a meeting, seminar, or presentation.

Lets discuss some tips to follow meeting etiquette.

• Always listen to what the other person has to say before asking your query.

• It's advisable to enter the meeting room with a notepad and pen to jot down important points for future reference.

• Individuals must also follow certain decorum while eating in meetings. For example: Don't make noise while eating. Don't leave the table unless and until everyone has finished eating.

5. Cultural Etiquette

As business goes global, it becomes crucial to learn the cultural practices of the countries. This is necessary to respect and build trust with people of diverse countries. Knowledge and practice of cultural etiquette help avoid misunderstandings and foster positive relationships.

For example, direct eye contact shows confidence in some cultures. In some other cultures, it translates to disrespect. Hence, it is important to learn about the culture and values of the nation you're doing business in.

6. Values-based Etiquette

Value-based etiquette comprises honesty, respect, fairness, integrity, and accountability. These values should be followed by everyone in an organization – whether a team member or a team leader. Such value-based etiquette builds trust, enhances the company culture, and supports long-term professional relationships. These are some of the most important sets of etiquette that reflect your personality in the business.

Summing Up

Business etiquette is nothing but a set of accepted behaviors in a professional setup. Something as simple as being punctual and dressing well are practices of good business etiquette.

Respecting cultural differences, using polite language, and replying promptly are important for effective communication. Good etiquette is essential to build trust and strengthen relationships that play an important role in career success.