Etiquette is simply practicing the “golden rule”. We have come to accept a general set of rules that defines who is and who isn’t polite. Business etiquette is a slight variation of that.
For those who think that etiquette doesn’t matter, then your career will be short-lived.
Increasingly people are realizing the importance of good manners
Person of highest rank is introduced to others: ie Mr. Senior, I would like you to meet VP, Mr. Junior. Mr. Junior, this is Mr. Senior, President. Clients are always introduced first Shake hands from the elbow with the web of thumbs meeting. Use a firm grasp but not a bone crusher. Look the person in the eyes.
Be interested in others and what they do for a living Do not pretend to be an expert on topics that you are not Do NOT correct another’s grammar or pronunciation in public Gracefully accept compliments given to you Do NOT ask for professional advice or information at a social function
Have them printed on quality paper using readable sized print Only use clean cards Don’t write on a card in the presence of the giver, but make notes later
Luncheon napkins are completely unfolded, large dinner napkins are left folded in half Pass salt and pepper shakers together Pass food to the RIGHT When asking for something, say “please pass the _____”
Answers 1. Water glass 2. Champagne glass (flute) 3. White wine glass 4. Red wine glass 5. Sherry glass 6. Cocktail fork 7. Soup spoon 8. Fish knife 9. Dinner knife 10. Salad knife 11. Salad fork 12. Dinner fork 13. Fish fork 14. Dessert knife 15. Dessert fork 16. Dessert spoon 17. Butter knife 18. Bread and butter plate 19. Place plate 20. Napkin
Less formal than previous slide In a place setting your FOOD is to the left (4 letters each word) your drink is to the right (5 letters each word) Do not replace used or dropped silverware on the table
Address people by name Use paragraphs Punctuate Don’t type in caps Make the subject line specific Clean up forwards Sign messages
Even knowing this, people often become involved with colleagues Keep it private