Business etiquette in the workplace is important for several reasons, say etiquette consultants at Ravenwerks, a global etiquette-training firm. Good manners and proper protocol make the workplace more comfortable for a diverse population, help co-workers take others more seriously and serve to maintain high morale among employees.
Function
Workplace etiquette involves more than just saying "please" and "thank you." The function of business etiquette is to avoid adding to the stress in the office, which often builds from sensory overload. Consultants at Advanced Etiquette remind workers to be aware of sounds, smells and visuals that affect fellow workers. Proper workplace etiquette requires paying attention to the volume of your voice and limiting the personal nature of your conversations. Strong cologne and food smells can bother fellow workers, and shared workspaces and common areas should be left neat and clean so as not to inconvenience others who use the spaces.
Types
Business etiquette is vital in meetings to make and maintain a positive impression. Avoid dominating meetings and interrupting others who are speaking. Avoid using acronyms and colloquialisms when addressing groups to make sure everyone understands you. In meetings and in business correspondence, use full sentences and avoid the shorthand used in social networking communications. Introduce yourself at functions that involve newcomers or guests.
Features
Because of the rapid pace of business due to technological advancements, you never know whom to impress, so all fellow workers should be treated as if they were the bosses. Proper business etiquette requires employees to avoid disparaging bosses or fellow employees.
Electronic advances bring other considerations to the workplace etiquette discussion. Think about whom your emails may get forwarded to, and write all electronic correspondence as if the executive team will read it, as it very well may.
Considerations
Fellow workers often are insulted by sloppy or inappropriate dress in the workplace, report Ravenwerks consultants. Showing up to work sloppy, unshaven or unwashed is disrespectful and portrays a lack of concern for the company. One of the considerations of etiquette is to portray yourself as a serious, competent individual, of which dress can play an important role. Additionally, dressing appropriately for work helps others feel comfortable in the workplace environment, one of the main roles of business etiquette.
Warning
It's easy to make mistakes when it comes to etiquette, as the rules vary in many environments. Company culture, local nuances and new situations often bring unpredictable rules for acceptable behavior as workplaces become more diverse. Consultants at Ravenwerks suggest that employees stick to the basics when they encounter unfamiliar situations. By maintaining a level of awareness of others' reactions and common consideration of those present, most mistakes can be avoided or quickly amended.
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