Office/Business Etiquette
Etiquette is beyond a show of poise, it is about mannerism, consideration, and sensitivity not just to oneself but to those around us. The consequences of what we do or what we fail to do are not limited to us alone, it sometimes has an extended effect on those we share our space with, be it workspace or personal space.
Office Etiquette describes professional behavior in the workplace or in any environment where a business is conducted. It is also a general guideline for manners in professional settings that allow others to feel comfortable and safe at work.
Importance of Office Etiquette
- It opens doors to successful business relationships.
- Practicing business etiquette helps create a positive impression
- Good business etiquette sometimes locks the door of personal shortcomings.
Dimensions of Office/Business Etiquette
Personal Interactions and Language use: If you walk into an office, and the Front Desk Officer asked you, ‘What do you want?’ in an unfriendly tone, would you feel welcome and respected? Conscious efforts should be made to select the choice of language appropriate to the workplace, also the body language should communicate professionally. In professional settings, slangs and foul words are off-limit.
Dress Code: Your dress code is an expression of your level of professionalism. This is your visual resume. What does your dress code communicate to others?
Written Communication/Email-Etiquette: Use formal language and professional courtesy. Make subject line relevant, avoid coping unnecessary multiple parties. Office mail is not for sharing jokes, personal correspondence, or political opinions.
Telephone/Teleconference and Video practices: For a formal call, introduce your self and company, and ask for the name of the person speaking/or ask for the person you would like to speak to. Personal phone calls should not be unnecessarily lengthy neither do your colleagues need to hear what is happening in your personal space. So the idea of putting your caller on the speaker is a NO.
Make a conscious effort to be the very best of you at work whether there is a compliment for it or not.
Implore good Office/business Etiquette.
