What Does Business Etiquette Mean?

In business, a good working relationship is built and strengthened as each of you observes business etiquette. Ignoring the rules of business etiquette can damage your reputation and company.

You need to develop the right type of relationship with coworkers, customers, business associates, and anyone else you come into contact with while you're at work. If you come off as arrogant or rude to a customer, their negative experience could influence potential clients, affecting your bottom line.

You want others to see you and your company in the best light, here are some fundamental guidelines to help you understand what good business etiquette looks like.

5 Basics of Good Business Etiquette

1. The Name Connection

If your job has you meeting new people on a daily basis, it can be a challenge to remember the name of everyone you meet. But remembering a client's name or the name of a networking connection starts the business relationship off on the right foot.

By remembering the person's name and using it as you talk to him or her, you show that you're paying attention and that they're important enough to remember. Not to mention that if you call them by their name, they're more likely to remember yours in the long run.

2. The Three Rs

Different situations call for different responses, and it can be tough to know what to do or say and when. But following these three Rs can keep you on track for keeping your business interactions professional.

• Recognize: Greet customers, coworkers, and business associates kindly, making it a point to acknowledge and welcome them.
• Respect: Treat everyone with respect, no matter who they are or what they look like. Apologize when something is your fault, and don't talk poorly about others, even when they're not around.
• Respond: Try not to keep people waiting. Whether it's a complaint, question, or friendly email, try to reply quickly.

3. Dress to Impress

Make sure that what you're wearing is appropriate. You don't want to meet a client or business connection dressed in a dirty t-shirt and jeans. For most situations, professional attire is a good fit, like the outfit you'd wear to an interview. If your company has a uniform, keep it clean and neat.

Even if you'll be attending a relaxed event, remember that your outfit is the first impression you'll make. Stay away from anything less than a smart-casual outfit.

The same principle goes for your hygiene. If your hair is dirty and you have body odor or unbrushed teeth, it will turn people away. Keep yourself clean and well-groomed for work every day, especially if you're going to a networking event.

4. Filter Your Jokes

Jokes can be a great way to lighten the mood and help people feel at ease, but they can also damage your business relationship if you're not careful. Be aware of what jokes are appropriate and when. When in doubt, ask a friend or co-worker first. Avoid jokes that center around sensitive or offensive topics, including race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.

If you tend to be more sarcastic in your regular conversations, be cautious. If they don't follow along, you might accidentally offend someone.

5. Gratitude

Be polite to everyone. Saying a genuine 'thank you' and showing gratitude paves the way for better communication in the future. It makes others feel appreciated and valued. This is especially true when someone has gone above and beyond to help you.

No one wants to be in a thankless relationship, especially in the business world where time is money. Take time to show your coworkers or associates that you appreciate them. Remember them on holidays and be aware of dates that are important to them.

Make a Lasting Impression

Business etiquette is not a dying art. It's still alive and thriving -- the key to climbing up the workplace ladder. Following rules of good business etiquette can preserve your company's good reputation, invite repeat business, and develop lasting professional connections.