Business Etiquette -- More Than Just a Handshake
by Joan Kulmala, Image Coach - Totally-U Image Communications
Something as simple as using good manners or, as I would like to refer to in the business arena -- business etiquette skills -- will complement an individual’s personality, credibility and respect within their organization.
The exercise of honing and practising these skill is on going. With the everchanging pace of doing business today, the new attitudes; the new behaviour policies and the expectations; it may be very intimidating and frightening and often given very little consideration.
Having good manners extends further than just knowing how to act at a social gathering. In business it means how to meet and greet people, how to network, how to handle criticism, what is acceptable attire, communication skills, and much more.
The following are some very important tips when meeting and greeting persons within your own work environment. In order to establish a good first impression, take time to acknowledge others with respect and warmth.
- Greetings and Introductions
When: At business social mixers, meetings, boardrooms, when overlooked by someone’s introductions, when seated next to someone at a luncheon, or when someone is having trouble placing you.
Whose First: Introduce the person with the greater authority or importance, not age or gender. However there is one exception to this rule. The client should always come first.
Names are not enough: Stop what you are doing, stand up and come forward to meet and greet. This
action only takes a second and it’s a little physical exercise from sitting. It is very important to look at each person as you make the introduction.
Don’t be afraid to extend a warm greeting and hand shake. Make sure you get the name right. If you are unsure of the pronunciation of the name -- just ask. To save time have a little information to start the conversation. If
you are not required to sit in on the meeting, graciously excuse yourself and return to your own office space.
ie. Mrs. Jane Kirk, I would like to introduce Mr. John Smith, our Executive Director. Mrs. Kirk is here to inquire about volunteering for our upcoming event.
- The Handshake
When: In business, a handshake is given when one is offered another hand, upon meeting someone, greeting guests, host or hostess, renewing an acquaintance or saying good bye.
How: Shake hands with confidence! Make sure your handshake is firm but not too strong. The web of your hand (area between your thumb and your pointer finger) should meet the same area of the extended hand. Do not hold the shake for a long period and do not pump the life out of the receiver’s socket. Once completed, invite your guest to be seated.
Anything more than this type of greeting is unacceptable. Touching is taboo. Be very careful to not cross over the boundaries of acceptable behaviour.
Some people interpret various actions differently. If you keep to the simple rules of greeting, you will leave no room for questions or innuendo.
A good example of a person who practices this is Rosie ODonnell. If you have ever watch her show, she always gets up from behind her desk and walks around to meet and greet her guest by extending a welcoming hand which is accompanied by an infectious smile. It’s a nice ice-breaker for some individuals who may be nervous. Her job is to put her guests at ease, to make them feel comfortable and special. Thus, with all parties feeling at
ease the dialogue begins. This technique can be transferred to any business environment.
Poor business etiquette skills are something you can change by practising and learning to be more aware of how you relate to others. Be more conscious of how you greet others.
Is it the way you would like to be greeted? Use common sense and take the time to consider the feelings of others. By honing this skill it can make all the difference in your bid for an advancement in your career or as a leader of others.
This is your investment both professionally and personally to polishing up on this simple skill of meeting and greeting.
It’s your opportunity to be totally-you.
© by Joan Kulmala. All rights reserved.
"Remember, Have Voice Will Travel, it’s my opportunity to share the Totally You Experience"
TOTALLY-U IMAGE COMMUNICATIONS
Joan Kulmala -- Image Communicator
Email: [email protected]
Web site: www.totally-u.com
Tel/Fax/ 1-807-683-8855
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