Business etiquette

2. • A fancy word for getting along with
others
• Politeness
• Poise
• Confidence
• A code that governs the
expectations of social behavior

4. Make a Good First Impression
You meet a colleague for the first
time. How do you introduce yourself?
A. Give them a big hug
B. Say “What’s up dude…cool to meet
you.”
C. Say “I’m (name), nice to meet you.
D. Offer a firm handshake and make
eye-contact
E. Both C and D

5. Always introduce people to others whenever the
opportunity arises, unless you know that they’re
already acquainted. It makes people feel valued,
regardless of their status or position.

6. Cubicle Etiquette
• Imagine an invisible door. Don’t just enter someone’s
cubicle.
• If they look deep in thought, leave them alone.
• If they are on the phone, don’t try to get their attention
with gestures.

8. Always say “Please” and “Thank you.”
This should go without saying, but even in a very casual
professional atmosphere, this basic form of courtesy is still
imperative. Today, sending a thank you e-mail is perfectly
acceptable.

9. Don’t interrupt
Don’t interrupt own opinions in others mid-sentence. It can be
tongue-bitingly difficult to force ourselves not to interject,
especially when the discussion is heated. Don’t. It’s rude and
shows disrespect for the opinions of others. Remember, be
assertive, not aggressive.

10. Watch your language
Verbal and written communications are often much less
formal than in times past, but be careful to choose your
words wisely. Of course, derogatory, rude or offensive
language is unacceptable, but so is slang. While it may be
commonplace in our society, it’s never acceptable in a
professional atmosphere.

11. Don’t gossip
It’s so hard sometimes to resist engaging in a little “harmless”
gossip. But the reality is that gossip is never harmless. It is
most certainly damaging to the subject of the gossip, but it
also reflects poorly on you. It’s natural to be curious and
interested in what other people are doing, but talking about
someone who is not present is disrespectful.

12. • View the event as an
opportunity to
network.
• Prepare some small
talk in advance.
• Go easy on the food
and drink.
• Seek out the host to
show appreciation for
the event.
• Don’t overstay your
welcome.
• Remember, people
are taking notes.
Don’t give them a
performance they
will remember
forever.

13. • Eat from the outside in
• Liquids to the right, solids to the left
– 5 letters: D-R-I-N-K / R-I-G-H-T
– 4 letters: F-O-O-D / L-E-F-T
• No elbows on the table
• Don’t talk with your mouth full
• Use your napkin properly
• Pace yourself – Don’t eat too fast or slow
• Don’t use your cell phone
• Pass correctly – Don’t reach over people.