Etiquette Tips from Polished Peyton
Business Etiquette 101
Often in the business world, our first instinct is to impress everyone with the fanciest of everything. We believe we must “out-do” the next guy to gain a new client or partnership. What people may lose sight of is the importance of making people feel comfortable and appreciated. I’m often asked, “What’s the BEST place in town to take my guests/clients?” My response is to ask questions about what they like, where they’re from, what hobbies they enjoy. Why? Because the answers matter.
Our first inclination may be to impress our guests and spend whatever it takes to do that. But that’s not always the best route. If you have a client flying in from Texas who loves BBQ, walked off the plane in jeans, and asked if he should have brought a tie, don’t take him out for a five course dinner. He’ll be more comfortable at the local spot you loved in college where he can sit down, relax and be himself. The meal might only cost you $20, but it’s exactly what he wanted. On the flip side is the lady from a small town driving in to show you her latest designs. You are thrilled to meet this up-and-coming “It Girl” face to face. She is excited and nervous. Did you do your homework? She loves seafood, but is allergic to shrimp. She likes a nice, quiet place and a salad with seared tuna is her favorite. Good food, low fuss. Find that. Bottom line: when it comes to business associates, it’s their show. You just need to set the stage to enable the best performance.
Business Etiquette
Some general guidelines for business meetings/dinners: Dress for the job you want. If your goal is to be the CEO of the company you are interviewing for, dress like it. Always arrive on time. Always. Never look at your cell phone while at the table. Don’t drink at all or limit yourself to one alcoholic beverage.
Conversation tips: Be informed so you can engage in polite conversation. Watch the news that morning or read the paper. Know what’s going on in the world. Engage everyone in conversation and be a good listener. Inquire about how they started the business, ended up in their recent position, or their latest projects. Use their name in conversation. People love to hear their name. Introductions are important. Introduce your guest(s) to others who pop by your table and introduce yourself to the people seated next to and across from you.
Last, but not least, thank your host twice, once at the end of the meeting and then with a thank you note mailed in the next few days. All these things will help demonstrate your professionalism and that’s a big asset in the business world.
Jennifer Daniel is a graduate of The Protocol School of Washington and may be reached at Jennifer@polishedpeyton.com or visit her website at polishedpeyton.com.
