International Business Etiquette

Business Etiquette Tips

Although culture and customs may differ, I find it helpful to remain respectful with international business manners. It is better for you to be the gracious one to accept minor 'setbacks' rather than be at the apologetic end.

Here are the summary of what is expected in all business practices:

At a meeting or interview

Always be on time! I cannot stress more.

Depending on how important the meeting is, aim to be there half an hour early. If it is really important, get there an hour early.

If you are late, even by a minute. Please call.

Make no mention of it and appear calm and composed if you are less than five minutes late.

If you are more than five minutes late, you should have called and apologize when you arrive.

Business Etiquette

Making networking contacts

Especially at a party or some social event.

I know some are not used to this idea, especially those who network for a living and are used to going to networking events.

I make an effort to embrace this idea as a norm for the new century, but a part of me find it rather distasteful.

Networking seems an aggressive gesture for personal gain. It almost looks greedy.

Some people talk to you first to get to know what you do, who you work for and how you can help them advance their careers, grow their business or increase their social status. Then during the conversation, if they conclude and don't think you are useful for their networks, they excuse themselves and almost forcefully break into other conversations. It is ruthless and in-your-face.

Let's just excuse this behaviour and limit them to networking events where everyone arrives with a purpose to find connections in their business.

Business Etiquette

Asking, Giving and Receiving Business Cards

Give with both hands and receive with both hands.

When you receive it, pause a moment and look at it before you put it away.

Do not put the card in your wallet.

Do not write anything on the business card.

Elegant Woman At The Office

If you are the boss, don't try to bond with your subordinates like friends. Be warm and friendly but maintain a professional distance.

Don't try too hard to make your co-workers like you. Don't be over-friendly. Remain professional. Do not get tempted to listen to office gossip. Just go about your business.

If your boss ignores you or isn't particularly fond of you, don't ingratiate yourself by making unnecessary conversation, asking about his or her weekend or suggest lunch.

Don't stare. Keep your eyes glued to your computer screen or the papers on your desk. Be professional and business like.

Do your work quietly and efficiently. Don't tell anyone how hard you've worked, or stay late in the office to try to impress people.

Use make up, it does wonders. Don't look haggard or disheveled from having to come in to the office early or stay late the night before.

Dress if you have a date after work. Co-workers and bosses are actually more impressed by well-rounded people who get their work done during business hours and have a healthy social life.

A Good General Supplementary Video

You might be interested in:

Cell Phone Manners
Proper Business Card Etiquette

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Tags: business etiquette tips, business meeting etiquette, proper business etiquette, international business etiquette, business dining etiquette, business manners

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