Business Etiquette
is that the name of the person being introduced is mentioned last, and the person to whom the introduction is made is mentioned first. It is also critical to remember that the client is the biggest priority, even if he/she holds a lesser title. In the business world the handshake is the accepted physical greeting which accompanies the introduction. With the entrance of women into the business world came kissing. This has caused confusion in male-female business etiquette, therefore, men and women should be treated equally by using the handshake. In order to shake hands properly the thumbs are up and the webs touch before wrapping the fingers around the other person’s hand. Although, in social etiquette the woman is to extend her hand first. In the business arena it is of no concern. Nametag placement is also important so that it becomes easy to read while shaking hands. The nametag is to be placed high on the right shoulder, so that when shaking hands, the eye follows the arm line to the other person’s right side. Effective Telephone Communication is a Must Effective telephone communication is a must in the business world. At home, “hello” is a proper greeting when receiving a phone call. However, in the business world the word hello would not be appropriate. When answering a business call it is appropriate to identify yourself and the company or corporation you work for. For example, “Good afternoon, Deskjet International, John Doe speaking.” One of the most crucial mistakes made while answering the phone is to ask, “Who is calling?” This alerts the caller that calls are being screened and in a rude way. If calls must be screened, “He/she has just stepped out may I get your name and number?” would be more courteous. The best way to avoid someone asking you “Who is calling?” is to state your name. “This is John Doe with Deskjet Inc.” Another important rule to follow during phone conversation is to keep your call short and to the point. When you call someone at work it is keeping him or her from doing their job. A Thank-You Letter: Your Last Impression Writing thank-you letters to your customers or associates is another aspect of proper business etiquette. The key in writing thank-you letters is similar to making phone calls. When writing thank-you letters do not waste the person’s time by using wordy phrases that are not needed. Be precise and sincere in your gratitude. For example, “Thank you for your help with our fund raiser it was greatly appreciated.” By using specific references you avoid rambling and wasting the person’s time. Common Courtesy in the Workplace While working in the office it is important to use proper business etiquette. The main complaint by secretaries is that their boss ignores them until the boss requests something. This leaves the secretary feeling unappreciated and belittled. A boss should acknowledge people as soon as he/she walks in the office. Common courtesy and personal manners can go [next page]