I can’t believe that just happened!!!

Have you ever asked yourself that question after a so-called business encounter?

Sometimes, I wish they actually taught a business etiquette class in college. Maybe even in High School! Some things you just know, but not everyone else gets it, right?

In business, accountability is number one in my book. A person of their word always gets major points. However, the individual that says, “Hey let’s do lunch babe,” as they tilt their Hollywood shades and wink…well, I’m not a fond of those types. Let’s not forget that they don’t even suggest an actual date that you can write down in your calendar.

On the Own Your Power Radio show, we actually did a topic on Business Etiquette and had loads of fun talking about the do’s and don’ts from networking, to phone calls, and emails. We had guests Tamisa Covington and Malik Yoba who chimed with their tips. It’s important for even those of us who think we know it all, to brush up a bit on some things, including business dining.

Check out the show here: www.ownyourpower.biz/radio
(CLICK THE WORD ” POST” AND SCROLL DOWN TO THE BUSINESS ETIQUETTE SHOW)

Some business etiquette faux pas that I can recall seeing in my business encounters were:

•Breath that almost cinged off my eyebrows. LOL! Please bring mints with you to events, especially after having the tuna casserole!
•Chewing gum during TV or Radio interviews. Can someone say TACKY!
•“Come Here” cleavage that screams “night club diva” and not fit for a networking event
•Late for meetings and not calling to let anyone know
•Not returning phone calls within at least 48 hrs
•Too much perfume or cologne
•Very casual attire for a business banquet
•Poor eye contact shows a lack of confidence. However, don’t overdo it and stare like a weirdo. 🙂
•Taking phone calls thoughout your meetings. NOT COOL!

Tune into the show and hear many more!
Check out the show here: www.ownyourpower.biz/radio
(CLICK THE WORD ” POST” AND SCROLL DOWN TO THE BUSINESS ETIQUETTE SHOW)

A few of Tamisa Covington’s (ETIQUETTE CONSULTANT) favorite business etiquette tips…

Running a business is a rewarding labor of love, in my opinion. However, we have to also keep in mind that the business arena is wrought full of pitfalls. Let me share a few tips in business etiquette that will help to keep you at the top of your game. Most of these tips, if not all of them are probably something that you’ve heard at one time or another; however, a little refresher never hurts!

Do have integrity in all you do. Integrity and character are so important and the bottom line is this; people like doing business with people they like. So do what you say you’re going to do, follow up when you say you will, and always treat people with dignity and respect.

Do turn off your cell phone! I know that we claim to be handicapped without them, however, there is nothing ruder than attending a meeting and having to hear an 80’s club song as someone’s ringer…. The considerate thing to do is to either:
Turn the phone off until after the meeting
If you can’t turn it off because you may miss an important call, put it on manner mode or vibrate and let everyone in the meeting know ahead of time that you may need to be excused if your phone rings because you are expecting an important call that can’t wait

Don’t forget to say thank you. I don’t mean go to hallmark.com and send an e-card either. If you truly appreciated closing that deal or if a sale went through without a hiccup, take the time out to send a nice handwritten thank you card. Not only is it the right thing to do, but the person on the receiving end will not forget your gratitude.

Do remember that business is business. Although you may have been conducting business with this person or company for years, remember that this is a working relationship. Use moderation in personal exchanges and avoid discussing in depth personal or private issues. Remember to not get too familiar with your clients or vendors (or what have you). The focus should remain on the business aspect of things as to not offend or distract those whom you have a working relationship with.