Business etiquette

Business etiquette is, at its core, about building relationships with people. In the business world, it is people who influence your success or failure. The label, and in particular the commercial label, is simply a means of maximizing your commercial potential.

If you are comfortable with someone and vice versa, better communication and mutual trust will develop. This comfort zone is accomplished by presenting yourself effectively. Business etiquette helps you do this.

Business etiquette revolves around two things. First, carefully consider the interests and feelings of others, and second, minimize misunderstandings. Both depend on self-conduct. Business etiquette polishes this behavior.

The trade label varies from region to region and from country to country. For the international entrepreneur, too much focus on international business etiquette would not leave time for business. However, there are a few key pillars on which good business etiquette is built.

Behaviour

Your manners and attitude will speak volumes about you. They will target your inner character. If you find yourself selfish, undisciplined, or rude, your relationship is unlikely to prosper. Proper business etiquette promotes positive traits.

Honesty

A reputation for delivering what you say you will deliver is a big help in the business world. Remember, a reputation for integrity is slowly earned but quickly lost. Understanding the business etiquette of a particular country provides a framework in which you can work without fear of crossing borders in terms of agreements, promises and contracts.

Character

Your character refers to what you, as an individual, bring to the business table. Proper business etiquette allows you to show off your positive qualities. For example, knowing when to be passionate and unemotional or self-confident without being arrogant. Just by learning someone else’s business etiquette, you demonstrate an open mind that will earn respect.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity and consideration are the foundation of all good business etiquette. Being prepared for foreign ways and methods and responding carefully is accomplished through experience and knowledge of business etiquette. By avoiding misunderstandings and misinterpretations through business etiquette, you lay the foundation for a strong business relationship.

Diplomacy

Avoiding thoughtless words and actions protects you from negative consequences. Impulse often leads a business person astray. Business etiquette encourages careful consideration of the interests of others and the choice of acceptable forms of expression.

Appearance

Dressing appropriately, standing and sitting in the right place at the right time, good posture, and looking physically presentable are all elements of making a good impression. Business etiquette teaches you how to present yourself properly and what to avoid.

Analyzing, understanding, and implementing the above will help you recognize what business etiquette is and how it should be used in the business world.

For the business of the international business person, the label acts as a key. It closes the doors on miscommunication and misunderstandings and opens the doors to successful business relationships.