What is business etiquette?

- Is a set of manners that is accepted or required in a profession. Often upheld by

custom, it is enforced by the members of an organization. Those who violate
business etiquette are considered offensive or unprofessional.
- Business etiquette is important because it creates a professional, mutually
respectful atmosphere and improves communication, which helps an office serve as
a productive place. People feel better about their jobs when they feel respected, and
that translates into better customer relationships as well.

Office Etiquette
a. Keeping a Professional Demeanor
- Positive Attitude
o Using pleasant tones in talking (not using foul languages)
o Engaging with peers, especially those who are new
- Polite
o Answering messages and calls ASAP
o Acknowledging messages/emails
o Advising not only the workforce but also your clients when you are on
leave or taking a vacation.
- Respect
o Open your mind to other people’s ideas.
o Usage of formal corporate language in emails or communications
- Showing good judgement
o Being on time
o Know when to use the company’s name
- Dressing Appropriately
b. Emotional Intelligence
- Keep personal emotions out of the office.
- Do not take emotions expressed during work hours personally.
- When getting to work, better leave your personal feelings at the door.
- Learn how to manage your feelings and if something is bothering you
(personal or professional matters), contact HR
c. Personal vs. Professional
- Avoid sharing personal matters where everyone could hear you, during work
hours. May it be through phone conversation or talking with a colleague.
o This may distract others and may lead to a gossip that you cannot leave
your domestic matters at home.
d. Qs are OK
- Do not be afraid to ask questions.
- It is normal to have questions. Especially when you are new to the company
or profession. Being curious could give you an upper hand in adapting
quickly.
- There is nothing wrong with teaching your colleagues how to fish.
o Give them specific instructions they could use as reference the next time
they encounter that situation.
e. It’s all in the details
- Give importance to details.
- Have a notebook/notepad handy as a reference on minutes of the meetings
and write a to do list
- Be conscious on details stated in emails and during meetings.
- Developing strong attention to detail makes you more effective in the
workplace, increasing your productivity and reducing the likelihood of error.
Because attention to detail and quality of work are often closely linked, it is a
skill that is desirable for companies.