Business etiquette: more than just a handshake.

• Author: Kulmala, Joan
• Position: Brief Article

Something as simple as using good manners, or as I would like to refer to it in the business arena - business etiquette skills - will complement an individual's personality, credibility and respect within their organization. The exercise of honing and practising this skill is ongoing. With the ever-changing pace of business today, the new attitudes, the new behaviour policies and the expectations, business etiquette may be very intimidating and frightening and often given very little consideration.

Having good manners extends further than just knowing how to act at a social gathering. In business it means how to meet and greet people, how to network, how to handle criticism, what is acceptable attire, communication skills and much more.

The following are some very important tips when meeting and greeting persons within your own work environment. In order to establish a good first impression, take time to acknowledge others with respect and warmth.

GREETINGS AND INTRODUCTIONS

Introduce yourself at business social mixers, meetings, in boardrooms, when overlooked by someone's introductions, when seated next to someone at a luncheon or when someone is having trouble placing you.

Introduce the person with the greater authority or importance, not age or gender. However there is one exception to this rule. The client should always come first.

Stop what you are doing, stand up and come forward to meet and greet the individual. This action only takes a second, and it's a little physical exercise from sitting. It is very important to look at each person as you make the introduction. Don't be afraid to extend a warm greeting and hand shake. Make sure you get the name right. If you are unsure of the pronunciation of the name, just ask. To save time, have a little information to start the conversation. If you are not required to sit in on the meeting, graciously excuse yourself and return to your own office space.

For example "Mrs. Jane Kirk, I would like to introduce Mr. John Smith, our executive director. Mrs. Kirk is here to inquire about volunteering for our upcoming event."

THE HANDSHAKE

In business, a handshake is given when one is offered another hand, upon meeting someone, greeting guests, host or hostess, renewing an acquaintance or saying goodbye.

Shake hands...