Do not waste people’s time

Manners, it has been said, can make or break a business or business deal. The very nature of the world of business demands not just astute manners but appropriate dress codes, and respect for people’s time. Remember that old adage, “time is money?”

• While it is considered inappropriate to boast in social circles you will have to be able to sell the strengths of the business and yourself in professional circles. Inappropriate boasting, criticism and complaining will be remembered for a long time.
• Do not waste other people’s time. Time is important and it is very, very rude not to respect this. Your time is not more important than anyone else’s.
• Respect House Rules: Some businesses designate rooms as “technology free zones” in the same way as areas are designated “no smoking.” Respect these house rules.
• Naming skills: Learn the skills to remembering names. This is often done by association. Do not use first names until given permission to do so.
• Business Dress: Be smart at all times even when casual dress is the norm. Informal dress shows disrespect and laziness. It is possible to be both smart and casual without being informal! A businessperson should dress properly even on dress down Fridays, that’s if there are any of those left. How is a client or customer to know it is a dress down day? Be aware of your accessories, it is often the most noticed aspect of your dress. Pens and watches are especially important as are ties and cuff links.
• Professional Dress: Some professions have different dress codes. People in the media or health and beauty professions are expected to be dressed in the latest fashions. People in the high tech and creative industries have to also demonstrate in their dress codes that they are up to date, imaginative and right on the leading edge breaking down the barriers! So the dress code conformity of business suits, short hair and quiet accessories is quite inappropriate here.
• Be confident and respectful. When talking to clients, customers or colleagues you must use proper language, no slang words or swearing, no love, dear and chuck. All of these are generally considered offensive.
• Keep a professional outlook. There is no need to be the clown. Business is not a game. It is a serious enterprise. To be professional, know where to draw the line between business and leisure. Let your business colleagues get to know you as a social colleague if you like but away from the business environment.
• Keep your temper under control. Exercise self-control. Cut down on the swearing, it is offensive.
• Avoid being rude, practice good manners, simple politeness, common courtesies and always be assertive not aggressive.
• On business occasions try 60 percent Listening and 40 percent Talking. Remember listening skills are survival skills, they allow you to absorb useful information and information is good for business. Pay attention to your own non-verbal messages.
• How we respond to each other takes its lead from the top. If you are in a position, use it to set standards of behaviour.