What is professional business etiquette?
Professional business etiquette is an unwritten code of conduct regarding the interactions among the members in a business setting. It can be applied to many areas of an individual's work life including the correct way to structure e-mails, phone calls, and business meetings, and general behaviour in the workplace.
Timekeeping
Coming in late to work is un-professional, the only excuses that are acceptable are unavoidable traffic delays or emergencies. Most managers are flexible about taking time off but leave must be agreed in advance. Being late for an appointment or meeting is the height of bad etiquette. Arrive exactly on time or a few minutes before. In case of any delay, call the people concerned and tell them how long you will be delayed by. If you are too ill to attend work, make sure you follow the procedures for notifying your Line Manager exactly as instructed.
Most colleagues eat lunch at their desks or in the staff rest room. Those eating out for lunch rarely take more than an hour.
Communication styles
In meetings you must be able to understand others and get your view across. Listen attentively and take notes during discussions. It is fine to question and discuss, but do not accuse and do not argue. If you push for answers you will get vague replies and assuming charge or giving strong opinions is rarely acceptable. It is better to take a diplomatic approach until you prove yourself. Do not boast about your achievements as modesty is a valued quality.
Generally, business negotiations are subtle, slow-paced and understated. Pay attention to what is said, as well as what is not said. The decision makers may be the ones who say the least during the negotiation sessions.
Socialising at work
DO be friendly and open. It is important to mix with colleagues quickly after starting to create a friendly impression. It's best to to do this is at lunchtimes. Office conversations can become personal, humour is seen as positive and relationships frequently switch between that of friends and colleagues depending on the situation. It is OK to talk about your family or pets occasionally but avoid too much personal information.
Some companies encourage social activities as a means of team building. Many companies will hold Christmas parties for staff - in a recession staff are more likely to have to pay for themselves.
Personal responsibility
You are responsible for managing yourself to a degree, but you must always consider the impact of your actions on the rest of the organisation.
Being a good team player is a prime attribute, but working on your own and using your initiative is also key.
Always meet deadlines unless you have a good excuse, you may have to work in your free time if time is running out on a project.
Ensure relevant people know where you are with your project.
Be modest in interactions, and downplay your knowledge and expertise. Let your accomplishments speak for themselves.
Acknowledge your mistakes and seek solutions.
Be proactive - this gives you the highest brownie points. If you've finished a task, ask around the office for more work but don't just ask for any task, find activities that you will be able to 'sell' on a CV or at a future interview.
Listen to other staff and colleagues, find out if there is a project/task that really needs doing but they lack the resource—offer your help. Make suggestions, helping others beyond your scope helps you to gain respect and appreciation.
Always attend meetings/get-togethers/networking opportunities unless you have a valid reason and always let the meeting organisers know if you are not able to attend.
General rules
Don't submit poor quality work - make sure all work you submit is proofread and exact.
Don't misuse resources or make personal calls in the office. Keep your mobile phone out of sight. Load only licensed software after asking permission from your Line Manager. Do not copy software.
Avoid spending time chatting with colleagues in work hours; ideally you should spend most of your time at your desk.
Do not raise personal problems as soon as you join (e.g. asking for time off to get your accommodation or bank account organised).
Be formal and dress smartly.
Act in a reserved manner; no hugging or prolonged eye contact.
Do not touch colleagues, especially managers.
Avoid displaying anger, frustration or grief in public.