BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

HANDLING BUSINESS SITUATIONS.

Your boss enters the room while you are meeting with an important client. How do you introduce the two?

Answer Introduce your boss to your client, the client is always most important person. Example: Mr. [insert name here] I'd like you to meet our Director of staff, Ms. [insert name here].

You forget/miss an important meeting with a business associate. What do you do?

Answer Call, apologize, and ask if you may set up another appointment.

You meet with the CEO of a major business at a social function. Do you give him your business card after a brief chat?

Answer ONLY if he asks for your business card or gives you his. If he does not ask for your card, or does not give you his, then you may not exchange cards.

Working with colleagues. Some of the best ways to develop good relationships with your colleagues is to keep the following elements in mind. Self-respect Mutual respect Compassion Co-operation Mutual trust Commitment

DINNER ETIQUETTE.

Things to remember while attending a business dinner Arrive on time. Call ahead if you know you'll be late. A business meal is a test of your social skills, and your level of sophistication. Your interpersonal skills, including your treatment of the wait staff, are on display. Wait for all parties to arrive before beginning any part of the meal.

Table etiquette Do not place any bags, purses, cell phones, briefcases on the table. Keep utensils in the same order they appear on the table. Do not rearrange to accommodate yourself if you are left-handed. Keep elbows off the table.

Ordering Don't order the most expensive item. Avoid finger foods or difficult to eat foods. Don't order alcohol at a business meal. Order simply.

Table setting Forks, butter plate, and napkins to your left. Glasses/cups, knives, and spoons to your right. Rest all utensils at their correct location. Whether basic or formal place setting, use your utensils from the outside in.

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THE EFFECTS OF CLOTHING.

It is very important to always dress appropriately. The way you dress highly effects people's impression of you. You want to dress for the position you aim for, not the position you have. Your wardrobe reflects who you are, so don’t let it say the wrong things. Always stay professional when it comes to clothing.

GUIDELINES FOR DRESSING BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL

JACKETS, SHIRTS, AND PANTS.

Suit/blazer, nice dress pants/slacks (for men or women)

Tailored skirt suits in dark colors, i.e. black, navy, or charcoal gray (if applicable).

Blouses should be simple in style, white or soft color

Casual Can also be called “informal.” Essentially, this means that anything goes...almost. You should still be tasteful and avoid worn out clothing with holes, tears, and stains if possible.

Business Casual Women should wear a skirt or dress with a hem past the knee, or tailored dress pants with a button-down or blouse. Men should wear dress pants or khakis, with a collared shirt and a belt.

Business Formal Men should be in a suit and tie, and women should be in a tailored dress or pantsuit. Think a more dressy form of business appropriate clothing.

Black tie optional For men, this means that a tuxedo isn’t required, but a dark suit and tie is considered appropriate for the occasion. For women, a dress or pantsuit in a dark, neutral tone is acceptable. Even a cocktail-length dress can be perfectly fine as long as isn’t too colorful or flashy.

Black tie Men should wear a tuxedo with a black bow tie, cummerbund, and a nice pair of leather dress shoes. Women should wear a long evening gown or cocktail dress in a dark, neutral color like brown or black.

White tie Men should wear a white bow tie, black coat with tails, and a white pique vest over a white formal dress shirt. Women should wear long, formal evening gowns, and gloves when enjoying cocktails and dancing (then removed during dinner).

SHOES

Shoes should be formal leather shoes, or…

Pumps or medium heels (if applicable)

Accessories Have a portfolio, suitcase, or messenger bag. No backpacks, fanny packs, or purses (optional). Watches are great if they match the style of your outfit. Rings and bracelets can be worn in moderation, one ring is most appropriate. Earrings have become acceptable to both sexes, although it’s mostly more appropriate for females during interviews, career fairs, etc.

References dress-code-terms-really-mea

Learning Outcomes On completion you will be able to: Appropriate the correct protocols for a range of business scenarios. Know how to appropriately dress for any business occasion. Dine like a business professional.