Urban Business Etiquette: The New Rules

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Sun, 21 Oct 2018 - 05:22 GMT

BY

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 - 05:22 GMT

Photo courtesy of Dina El Selmy

Photo courtesy of Dina El Selmy

Being the smartest person in the room while lacking courtesy can sabotage our entire business. Whether your workplace lives on stringent procedures or is flexible enough that anything goes, whether you work at a corporate or run your own business; there’s always a certain level of refinement that you should strive to maintain.

Business etiquette is more than just saying please. It’s a way of presenting yourself in business and social situations to ensure you are taken seriously.

So here are the five urban etiquette rules walk that very fine line and stand out from the crowd.

1. Workplace attire: What is the best dress code for an interview?
The way you dress gives a huge impact on where you land in terms of your career and plays a crucial part in the way you are perceived by others professionally.

The appropriate attire is always dictated by the culture of the organization that employs us. Whether in a buttoned-up suit, a uniform, or a hoodie, we dress to meet expectations, not to defy them. Subsequently, the first step is asking yourself how you know about the company that just contacted you to schedule and interview. Do your research.

I’d recommend choosing between “Strictly Business” dress code, or “Cocktail Dress code,” depending on the organization’s culture.

Avoid going for a solid-black outfit. You can never go wrong with the black suit, but black can be seen as unapproachable and give an impact that you’re wearing a uniform. Also, do not try to match different black fabrics to ‘make’ a suit.

2. Handshakes: Should you wait for the lady to initiate the greeting?
In business situations, gender is irrelevant, so don’t wait for the lady to extend her hand first. In a business setting, the person in a higher rank should be the one to extend a hand first. But if you make a mistake and initiate it, don’t withdraw your hand because then you would be rude. Always follow through with a handshake. Smile and continue with the introductions. Don’t apologize.

3. Email Courtesies: The battle between the “Dear” and the “Hi”
Sending an email, especially a work one, can be a real challenge. You want to sound kind, yet professional, formal, yet not aggressive. So how do you set the tone? It is a reflection of your manners and social etiquette. The best way to start your email without wasting time stressing over your greeting is “Hi.” It is simple, safe, and yet professional. If you want to sound more formal, simply follow it with a Mr. or Mrs. Starting your email with “Dear” shows endearment.

4. Business card etiquette:
Your business card is the first item someone receives from you, and so it is your first chance to make an impression on that person. It typically reflects on you, and your business. Avoid appearing to rush business by offering your business card too soon, and instead wait to be asked for yours. If that isn’t happening, ask the other person for a card. Reciprocity generally follows.

5. Meetings:
Running all the day from one meeting to another can take its toll on your awareness, affecting your ability to keep up with manners and social etiquette. But by following these simple hacks, you will master it:
•Confirm your attendance
•Have a calendar
•Prepare ahead, with all necessary materials and date
•Arrive 15 minutes earlier than you should
•Be ready with your agenda, keeping a logical sequence and realistic times
•And yes, you can sip tea and coffee during the meeting

You can contact Urban Ettiquet at +201111126599
Instagram:

@dinaelselmy


Facebook: @EtiquetteByDina

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