There are some things that cannot be compromised in the In corporate culture
Here are five key business etiquette tips every working professional should know.
Be on time: This is non-negotiable. Being on time is the foundation principle for anyone who wants to be an efficient working professional. It can pretty much make or mar your professional image. Being on time shows that you respect your work as well as other people's schedules. It's the key quality for any professional at any level of corporate hierarchy. Occasionally, being late for work is understandable if unavoidable situations arise and everyone in the team or your office is informed about the same. If you are meeting a client or business delegates, be well-prepared to get there on time. Late arrival is not an option. Even bad traffic cannot be an excuse for being late in this situation, as it will show your lack of efficiency.
Communicate politely: Being polite in your communication - whether via email or face-to-face - is a credibility enhancer. Communication with a smile or using kind words like 'please' and 'thank you' gets the job done even more promptly. Polite communication shouldn't be misunderstood for being gullible. Professional communication should be authoritative, yet kind. It's challenging, yet extremely important to demonstrate this during adversities. But a rude gesture cannot be taken back and is inexcusable, even in the heat of the moment.
Fight superior attitudes: Demeaning behaviour or superior attitude is a business etiquette faux pas, simply because it doesn't build relationships. Humility, empathy and compassion are key elements for leadership. Taking pride in or advantage of your superior authority is against the principle of business etiquette. Successful leaders and C-suite executives must have those three values mentioned above.
Work to build relationships: Think before acting, and act to build relationships - even if, at a given moment, the situation won't work in your favour. Applying the three principles of etiquette - consideration, respect and honesty - before addressing a challenging situation in hand will prove how you handle crises. Putting relationship-building before your need to get your way shows your maturity and your credibility as a business professional.
wknd@khaleejtimes.com