Always in Style, Business Etiquette

by Jill Crossland

Etiquette isn’t something that is out of date or why would it have reinvented itself as netiquette? You do business with many people that you will probably never meet face to face. Their only impression of you is through your emails, phone calls, letters or web site. These are the conduits through which you project your professionalism, ethics and experience.

I have seen that this in an area where a lot of businesses are failing. They are not taking the time to handle colleagues, customers, clients or even basic inquiries with professional courtesy.

The Right Way to Handle Everyday Business

• You genuinely don’t have time to deal with a concern or issue.
  Don’t ignore the person; quickly email a date when you will get back to them.
• You need to discuss something at length with a business associate.
  Schedule a time for the phone call that is convenient for both of you. If something urgent comes up, phone but ask first “Is this a good time?”
• You say “I’ll call you on Wednesday” or “I’ll get back to you” but they never hear from you.
  Some people are under the impression that this makes them appear important & busy. It doesn’t. If something does prevent you from calling when you said you would; pass on a brief & genuine apology, then reschedule.
• Someone unknown to you is making general inquiry or a competitor needs some information.
  Respond promptly and be helpful; you don’t always have to get something tangible back for your time.
• You receive exceptional service from another business.
  Say ‘thank-you’ even if it by email.

Whether you call these business tips, professional courtesies or just good communication skills by incorporating them into your business day, you will be using a key tool toward your business growth.

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