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WHAT IS ETIQUETTE

Etiquette is variously defined as politeness, consideration, thoughtfulness, good manners

and behavior. It is treating others as you would like to be treated with consideration and
thoughtfulness and courtesy. It is being polite and caring.

The word etiquette is believed to have been derived from the French word une equitte
(a ticket or placard). In the court of King Louis the XIV of France popularly known as the
Sun King there was an exhaustive list of rules of behavior for every action and
situation encountered in court. Failure to conform or follow the rules could mean
banishment from court.

To a great extent companies and organizations are judged by the manner its executives
conduct themselves.

Companies have begun to appreciate the importance of etiquette and several employ
etiquette trainers whose job it is to teach good manners to their executives. .

Etiquette is, do unto others as you would like others to do unto you. Etiquette is about
good manners.

Lady Mary Wortley Montagu said in the 19th century civility costs nothing and buys
everything

Business and Social Etiquette

There are two kinds of etiquette business and social. Social etiquette is based on
chivalry on the concept that the lady, the aged and the weak have to be protected
whereas business etiquette is based on hierarchy and power. In business, gender is no
longer an issue. Doors are held for superiors, for clients, for peers or for anyone loaded
with packages regardless of gender

Business etiquette is the manner

You dress
You greet people
You introduce people
You address people
You behave with people
You talk
You look
You entertain and be entertained and
You handle other business imperatives

Your business etiquette will get you noticed and can and will have a tremendous effect on
your career.