Business Etiquette for Tough Economic Times

In today’s uncertain financial climate, it is more important than ever to approach business and social situations with grace and thoughtfulness. We need to be mindful of others’ circumstances and add value to everything we do. Whether you have experienced a change in your financial security personally, or you are one of the fortunate individuals experiencing “life as usual,” a conservative attitude is the order of the day.

First and foremost, be a value to your place of business. Start earlier, stay later and skip lunch now and then. Kicking it up a notch will not go unnoticed by your management, and you will likely be rewarded for your loyalty and hard work down the road.

Be a positive force in your environment. Never complain, whine or speak poorly of the company. Be sensitive to management’s position. It is probably not a good time to ask for a raise, but you can always ask for a commitment to “revisit” the conversation when things improve.

It is always in good taste to spend your company’s money wisely. Approach any financial decision at the office with the same frugal attitude you would use at home. At firstPRO we have cut back on many of our monthly internal events, opting for every other month instead.

Do NOT bring your financial worries to the office. It is never polite to air your problems to your co-workers; it is always better to find your support system outside of the office.

In the end I believe that there is an upside to any situation, and the upside to a down economy is that we are developing conservative habits that will stay with us for a lifetime.

Business Travel Etiquette

An important part of doing business is conducting yourself in an appropriate manner, and traveling is no exception, whether it is business or personal.

With the holiday season upon us and passengers packed into airports and planes, delays are inevitable and tempers start flaring. It can be a challenge to stay patient and maintain your manners, but during these busy times it is crucial to remember that everyone is going to get to the same place at the same time. The best way to alleviate this stress is to take a deep breath, be prepared and keep an attitude of cooperation.

It is always polite to assist someone with luggage if necessary, or to move so that travelers can sit with companions. Once seated, share your space and arm rests, and try not to get up to use the restroom when your seat mate is fast asleep or just settled down with a tray of food.

If you are next to a super chatty traveler and you do not want to talk, it is not rude to simply say, “Please don’t take offense but I’ve been waiting all day to read this article.” And if you are the chatty traveler, be open to the subtle signs that someone wants to be left alone. If a meal is served and you are both eating, however, it is polite to participate in some light conversation.
Like it or not, travel has changed dramatically over the years, and today it is geared towards the masses.

Things will (and do) go wrong, so traveling with a realistic attitude is key. Many factors can control whether a flight is on time or has available seating, so be patient, be prepared and be polite. Everyone wants the same thing…to get from point A to point B in the most pleasant way possible. Traveling with good etiquette will only ensure a successful venture...in business, through the holidays, or any other time.

The Business of Entertaining

Conducting business in conjunction with a social activity can be a great way to network and build rapport. These events typically coincide with a meal; they can be anything from a breakfast, lunch or dinner with just a few people to a much larger function.
I also like to adhere to the following rules when attending a business function:
• Always arrive on time or within 15 minutes of the start of the event.
• Locate your host, and when possible, say hello and thank them for the invitation.
• Do not to take phone calls during a meal or an event.
• Always wear nametags at the right shoulder.
• Never arrive to a buffet or cocktail reception when you are starving. If you are, make a plate and eat quickly before getting a drink. It is always easier to navigate without a drink and a plate in your hand.
• Do not stand at the buffet table and graze. Use cocktail napkins when eating, and carry one with your drink so you are not shaking hands with a wet hand. If you are juggling food and a drink and are being introduced or have a mouthful, it is appropriate to nod your head and smile.
• If the event is a seated dinner, do not rearrange place cards for your own reasons. If seating is open, ask someone already seated if you may join that table.
• Always write a thank you note, especially if your guest is a potential business client.
Look at these events as an opportunity to polish your networking skills. Avoid potential hot topics, be a good listener and come prepared with some safe subjects that you can use as conversation starters.
Remember that the goal of these events is to expand your horizons and get to know new contacts. How you approach business entertaining, whether as a guest or a host, is so important, and in today’s competitive business climate, a ‘business as usual’ approach simply does not suffice. If you can excel at this, it will surely get you noticed by potential customers and higher ranking individuals in your own organization. I guarantee it.