Basic Etiquette

What is Etiquette?  Etiquette is a set of social codes and manners determined by society. In order to socialize in a proper way we, as individuals within the society must abide to the set of codes that is being dictated to us. Based on our environment we tend to develop our unique set of manners and etiquette. Places such as our home, school and workplace may serve as a major factor in influencing the etiquette we acquire as adults.

How to create a positive impression in the business world? The way you present yourself to others in the business world speaks volumes. People tend to form their first impression about others within seconds of their first meeting. Therefore it is crucial to ensure you are properly prepared to present yourself as a professional. Here are some important tips towards making a good impression.

In the office:

• Posture – Stand up straight, make eye contact, turn towards people when they are speaking, and genuinely smile at people.
• Dress code - Make sure you are in proper dress code, perhaps dressing a step above the norm.
• Portable Portfolio - Your briefcase or bag and the things you carry in them say something about you. Messy items may detract from the image you would like to present.
• Greeting - When meeting someone for the first time, be sure to shake hands palm to palm with a gentle firmness.
• Language - Your colleagues deserve the same respect as clients. Keep the language in emails and other communication grammatically correct.
• Noise/Smells - Don’t forget that sound and smells travel. In an open office, chomping and chewing or reheated lunches can easily grate coworkers’ nerves.
• Help Yourself – Although many co-working spaces value collaboration and debate, near all expect you to be self-sufficient.
• Punctual - Arrive early!

Business lunch etiquette reminders:

• Don’t rush - Don't dig into business immediately, wait until after you've ordered lunch will prevent you from getting interrupted in mid-thought.
• Know what to order - Before you order something, think about how you will look eating it, Avoid foods that are complicated to eat, like spaghetti with a red sauce, barbeque ribs, oversized sandwiches, or lobster in the shell.
• Put your cellphone away - Place your cell phone on the table and then glance down at it every time it pings or vibrates. Silence your device and keep it out of sight until you leave the restaurant.

Pay with card - If you're paying the bill, do it with a credit card, not cash. You will have a record for your expense account and it looks more professional.

                                                                        Amina Adalat

                                                                       Nathalie Jean-Elie