It is critical to have workplace etiquette rules to build a cultured environment in
a professional company. The set of standards on business etiquette essentially boils down to civilized conduct with those in professional relationships. All it means is being polite and treating others with respect. Just as there are etiquettes in a physical setting, there are online etiquettes. The companies that enforce the rules on etiquette tend to enhance their reputation and also minimize the internal conflict. The professionals that comply with norms on etiquette tend to positively influence their career growth.
Here’s what you need to know about workplace etiquette.
1. Meeting Someone
When you meet someone first, you leave the first impression. Often, this is also the lasting one. Whether or not you smile or make eye contact while shaking hands with them has a lot to speak about you. You can be viewed as rude or dishonest or someone lacking confidence if you do not smile or make eye contact.
While introducing yourself, you must give your first and last name clearly. You must also remember the name of those you have met to avoid an awkward situation. The name of a person should be pronounced correctly. If you are not sure, ask them. If you greet even if, with a smile or nod, you tend to make the work environment a friendly place. It breaks the ice, facilitates communication and builds rapport.
Complimenting someone for their work and engaging in friendly conversations creates a friendly workplace environment.
2. Dress Code
“A book is not judged by its cover” may be the high point of idealism, but in the real world of corporate culture, you are judged by the way you dress. People read the message in the way you dress. They judge your professionalism through this nonverbal communication.
These days many companies are relaxed with dress codes. Yet, try to dress smartly as it reflects on your professionalism. The casual dress could also be handled with grace, and dignity when they are well maintained and clean without offensive logos and messaging.
When employees are dressed smartly it is known to boost productivity.
It is best to ensure the required dress code in advance when attending business meetings or events.
3. Phone Use
Excessive phone use can be perceived as disrespectful or rude.
It is certainly very rude when you are seen fiddling with your phone during meetings. Phones should be kept in the silent mode and even out of sight when you are conversing with someone or interacting with customers.
4. Online Best Practices
A large share of work is done online now including having to write and respond to emails. A high degree of professionalism is expected in online communication because that’s the only perception the communicator on the other side can have of you.
You need to be mindful of grammatical and spelling errors. Poorly written emails leave a poor impression and develop mistrust on the other end. Every email sent out should have a clear and purposive subject line. People do not have the time to guess what your email is about and may likely overlook the emails without a subject line.
5. Respect Your Co-workers
When you share your work with your co-workers, you will begin to interact with them and engage in conversations. It is important to be mindful of the topics you talk about at work. Personal and relationship issues are sensitive issues likely to create an awkward atmosphere. These issues should be avoided. Politics and religion are also divisive topics. You should be mindful of the topics you pick up for conversation.
While engaging in discussions with your co-workers, you must never forget that you’re in a professional setting. There are other workers who need not be disturbed. So speak softly.
Clutter and mess on your desk can annoy your fellow workers and should be especially avoided if you share your workspace with someone else or the same space is used by other workers in different shifts.
An untidy workplace will distract your clients or colleagues who may draw a negative conclusion about you.
6. Dining Etiquette
There are occasions when business extends into mealtimes. The first thing to note is when you invite someone for lunch or a meal, you pay the bill.
Avoid talking while dining with your mouth full. Avoid phone calls and keep your phone in the silence mode. When you are invited to dinner or lunch, honor your business partner by ordering something similar to theirs and avoid ordering expensive meals. If you have an overseas meeting at a restaurant, respect the dining culture of the host. If you need to do some homework in advance, you must do it to avoid embarrassment later.
Conclusion
When you and your company follow business etiquettes, you stand out among the competitors. It makes the difference in how external stakeholders perceive you. You will attract better business associations including sales, while the internal conflicts will be reduced. If you are mindful of etiquette, your co-workers will respect as their role model.