Etiquette At The Workplace

Vivek joined a reputed MNC as a Client Servicing Manager and within a very short span of time he became everyone's favorites.His amazing charismatic personality and demeanor attracts everyone working around him.He is assiduous,competent,smart and possesses the professional outlook which makes him stand apart in the group. In-fact, he was bestowed the "Employee of the month" award by the organisation.The most important question is how he was able to carve a niche for himself in such a competitive environment and that too in a short span of time???? Vivek's success at the workplace can be attributed to the exceptionally good professional etiquette he possesses and has transcended the ordinary intelligence.In today's world of business, professionals need to know how to conduct themselves within the business world.One of the best ways to do is to practice good professional etiquette.Practicing professional etiquette is necessary for professionals in the emerging business scenario.In the intensely competitive global environment of today, an organisation look for those candidates who possess manners, demeanor and the ability to converse appropriately with business colleagues and clients.

Etiquette can be defined as the fine art of behaving in front of others.They are the rules indicating the proper and polite way to behave.To be successful once is easy but to remain perpetually successful at the workplace is difficult. Being corporate professional, it is imperative to follow some basic etiquette tips that would be beneficial for you to go up the ladder.Following are some of the basic etiquette required at the workplace.

COMMUNICATION ETIQUETTE

Communication etiquette involves a courteous and well thought out interaction between individuals or group that involves informed speech, attentive and active listening and a sincere grasp of what is being communicated.Communication plays a pivotal role particularly at the work place. It calls for the ability to communicate one's thought in a coherent manner.

1. Always speak politely and in a humble manner. Listen to others carefully. An active listener is always liked by every client.
2. Speak only when the other person has finished speaking, avoid interrupting in between as it will cast a negative impression.
3. Show interest in what other people are doing to make them feel good. It can be done even by nodding to maintain the decorum of the conversation.
4. Question the other person in a friendly, not in an aggressive manner.
5. Whether you are on the phone or talking to a colleague refrain from being loud.
6. Turn-off your cell phone during the business meeting else use it in a silent mode.
7. Be polite and avoid talking in a belligerent manner.Maintaining your sobriety and politeness is very essential.
8. Always maintain an eye contact to give the other person an impression of your being confident.

HANDSHAKE ETIQUETTE

Etiquette begins with meeting and greeting.A handshake is more than just a greeting. It is an important tool of making a positive first impression. A firm handshake is also a message about your personality and confidence level. It gives the impression of your being confident and assertive.

1. Before extending your hand,always rise when introducing yourself or being introduced to someone.
2. A thumb rule is always shake hands with your right hand, unless you have a reason to use your left hand.
3. A business handshake should be brief and to the point.Hold it for few seconds and pump up and down only twice or thrice.
4. Avoid offering a fish limb grip as it gives a very wrong impression in business instead shake hands firmly and with one squeeze only but it should not be crushing.
5. If you shake hand with the someone who has sweaty palms, dont wipe your hands immediately as this will make the other person feel awkward.You can do it after some time.
6. Always maintain an eye contact while shaking hands as this will exhibit the positive side of your personality.

DRESSING ETIQUETTE

Most organisations have a predefined dress code that has to be strictly followed.The essence of dress code is that a person should be appropriately dressed to give an immaculate appearance. The first and the foremost consideration with regard to dress code is to present a smart appearance. Knowing what to wear or how to wear something, is key to looking great within any organisation. An impressive personality to a large extent depends your style of dressing.Its a human tendency that people tend to draw an inference about us by our attire.The way you dress is one of the key component of shaping your professional image at the workplace. Your attire should project a positive image in the corporate environment.

1. Always wear neat and nicely ironed formal clothes. Choose corporate shades which matches your persona.
2. Men need to keep their hair neatly trimmed and well brushed.
3. Ties for men should compliment as ties are the barometer of respect. 
4. A smart appearance to a great extent depends on the personal cleanliness.Keep your hand and nails clean.
5. It is advisable to wear clothes in which you are comfortable in. This is a prerequisite condition while you are in a business meeting or client presentation.
6. Women should avoid sporting heavy ornaments and makeup at the workplace. They should wear formal dresses and avoid opting for exposing dresses.