In the midst of assignments, projects and deadlines, those in a working environment may forget to act courteously and politely. However, any successful business must foster an environment of respect for colleagues and clients. In order to promote respectful, well-mannered behavior in your business, you must practice business etiquette. Routinely observing proper etiquette will boost morale among colleagues and ensure success for your business in the long run.
Displaying good manners with kindness means you’re sincere in your actions. Treating others with kindness strengthens relationships between coworkers and shows them gratitude. Be attentive to your colleagues’ needs by asking how they are or if they need anything. Strive to leave personal problems out of the workplace so you don’t misdirect anger or frustration toward a coworker. Additionally, promote an environment of respect in the workplace by greeting and thanking janitors or security guards. Actively strive to practice etiquette rooted in kindness to cultivate a positive, thoughtful workplace.
Thoughtful actions show that you’re a team player and display selflessness. By practicing simple etiquette, you’ll develop patterns of polite behavior. Aim to be a few minutes early to meetings to show gratitude to the other person. Clean up the microwave if your lunch makes a mess. In addition to practicing good manners, try to go above and beyond to help others. When making a copy, ask a neighbor if they need one, too. Offer to pick up a coffee for others if you’re heading that way. By acting thoughtfully, you outwardly express gratitude and respect for your colleagues.
Attitude and outlook have the power to change someone’s day, for better or for worse. Make a special effort to show encouragement, like leaving uplifting notes for colleagues or thanking them for their time. By smiling at someone or greeting them with a friendly hello, you spread positivity in any environment and represent your business favorably. Start small by changing negative thoughts into positive ones. For example, if a client runs late for a meeting, view it as an opportunity to show compassion and understanding instead of becoming frustrated. Though problems and difficulties occur often, remaining positive will help you persevere while encouraging those around you.
Because the way you speak reveals your character, displaying etiquette in speech indicates respect for others. When speaking to coworkers, consider their communication style and act accordingly. Some handle straightforward communication well, while some prefer a softer approach. For example, giving a direct command to a timid coworker may offend them, so say a sincere hello before asking a favor. Including “please” and “thank you” in your vocabulary also has a great effect in the eyes of others. Speaking clearly and thoughtfully demonstrates respect for coworkers and displays effective communication in the workplace.
Poor nonverbal cues can cause any message, no matter how eloquently spoken, to be lost or misunderstood. Consequently, body language plays a huge role in workplace communication. Make eye contact and keep an even, upbeat tone of voice when speaking to others. Additionally, actively remain outwardly composed in any situation. For example, if a coworker says or does something unusual, mind your facial expressions to refrain from offending anyone. Establishing positive nonverbal cues produces excellent communication skills while improving business etiquette.
Everyone makes mistakes and encounters bumps in the road. However, using good manners to navigate a sticky situation guarantees positive results. When an issue occurs, aim to rectify it quickly and civilly. Resolving workplace issues swiftly prevents colleagues from developing hostile feelings and tensions. Remain calm, and clearly communicate the problem to those involved, focusing on a solution rather than the problem itself. By showing composure and courtesy in the face of opposition, you demonstrate excellent etiquette while remaining a team player.
In addition to face-to-face interaction, it’s imperative to incorporate business etiquette online and over the phone. When writing an email, use correct grammar and punctuation to avoid any miscommunication. When making a call, refrain from calling after business hours or at night. These manners transfer to responses as well. Reply to emails within 48 hours to keep recipients from getting frustrated. Always read and re-read emails before sending to ensure your point is correctly conveyed. This way, you’ll practice excellent business etiquette in person and over phone or email.
Observing proper workplace etiquette results in a better workplace environment for everyone. Colleagues who respect each other strengthen relationships, boost morale and work effectively together. By displaying polite behavior to colleagues and clients, you’ll paint your business in a positive light while upholding excellent standards of etiquette.