The basics of business etiquette

The basis of business is to build good working relationships and smooth communication. But that can be hindered with behaviour and ignorance to social customs that are uncalled for. Here are some etiquettes we canobserve to make our offices more conducive.

Call people by their names: Saying things like, “You there,” or “Hey!” without properly addressing the person by name is rude and uncivilised. If you can’t remember the name, you can politely ask them quietly to remind you, or ask someone nearby to tell you.

Reply emails: Acknowledgement is very important. If you receive an email, it is only proper to respond to say the message has gotten across. Also, if it is a chain email, remove all those that were CC’d and reply the sender alone. There’s no need to continue the chain and clutter all the other inboxes.

Be diplomatic: Being sensitive and giving proper thought to what you say before you say it is important. Being diplomatic in your speech and thinking before speaking will save you a lot of clashes with colleagues.

Don’t interrupt: When your colleague is speaking, interrupting will give the impression that what they are saying isn’t important to you. Being a listener shows mutual respect.

Dress well: Your dressing says a lot about you, and to an extent, speaks for you. Dress appropriately when coming to the office or your place of business. Don’t wear something glittery or sparkly when you know you are not going to a dinner party. Smart casual or formal should be the code, depending on where you work.

Don’t gossip: Gossiping and eavesdropping on personal phone calls or any conversation in general is wrong. It spreads negativity in the environment; and honestly speaking, places of business are not for it.