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Good Manners Go a Long Way
Every work day you meet with people, colleagues, customers or potential customers. You need to make a good first impression, and continue to make a good impression. Business etiquette can mean the difference between achieving your goals or going down in flames.
No one wants to hang around waiting while you finish up with something on your desk or with a phone call. If this can't be helped, nod apologetically and acknowledge that the person is in the room.
When greeting a client stand up, this shows that you think the other person is important. Make eye contact, smile and greet the person immediately. If this is the first time you have met the person introduce yourself, and say who you work for or what your position is in the company. Shake hands confidently, and try to put the person at ease. You want to present yourself and your business in a favourable way.
Be attentive to what they have to say, repeat points they have brought up to show that you have been listening and speak clearly and concisely. Be courteous and good mannered, show consideration to the other person. Please and thank you's cost nothing.
When the client or customer is leaving, again stand up and shake their hand, while repeating their name, remember to only use their first name if you have been given permission to do so. Walk them to the door as you say goodbye. Follow up with a phone call or email.
Remember, it's so often the little things that matter. A fancy office is impressive but courtesy and consideration are personal and will have the more lasting effect.