Decoding Office Etiquette & Proper Behavior

Office Etiquette and Then Some

Television Interview by Mellisa Paul of Sac&Co with Etiquette expert, Rebecca Black of Etiquette Now.

Basic Manners Rule!

Respect
Kindness
Consideration
Courtesy

Q: The word etiquette gets thrown around a lot, but what does the term encompass?

A: Etiquette is basically the "rules" society creates and expects as proper behavior.

Q: As an etiquette consultant, what do you find is the most frequent etiquette problem that people have?

A: The most frequent problem people tend to have is the "me" factor. They tend to forget that everything they do affects others. They want, they do, and they feel outraged when others are offended.

What should I wear? Is the most asked etiquette question.

Q: Why do you think people are so concerned with having the right etiquette?

A: Basically, people don't want to be embarrassed by being ignorant of the "rules". The French call this déclassé, which means the person is of no class or lower class because he/she doesn't know the social norms. Knowing what behavior is expected, proper etiquette, makes us feel more comfortable in all situations.

Q: Office etiquette is something that almost everyone has different ideas on, what is proper office etiquette?

A: We tend to think of office etiquette as a stuffy, strict set of rules. But for the most part, it is common sense. We treat all our customers (internal and external) well and fair. Also, our actions and appearance will be scrutinized greatly in the workplace, so we should consider how we wish to be viewed.

Q: What’s your favorite piece of advice to give people?

A: Always consider that everything we do affects others. And commit a random act of kindness (RAK) every day.

Q: Where can people find more information?

A: Read this or visit any of my other blogs for the most up-to-date advice.

More by Rebecca

How to Deal with Frustrating Breakroom Behavior

How to Deal With Irritating, Loud, Sick and Clueless Coworkers

Using Goals to Increase Production

Comments

Is Holiday Gift Giving in the Workplace Appropriate?

Ensure that gift-giving is allowed in your workplace and if there is a dollar limit. Then consider the appropriateness of the gift. There may be religious, or gender issues attached to some gifts, such as perfume or jewelry for women and religious icons or pork products for some religions. Gift for The Boss Simple gifts to the boss, so as not to appear like an apple polisher. Homemade treats Anything for the desk: calendars, stationery, pens, letter openers, picture frame... Book Box of candy Associates to Each Other Gift giving is not equal, because we give gifts according to our relationship with the person. Not Close: Small items for the desk: ‘to-do’ lists tablets, coffee mugs, treats... Filled coffee mugs: candy, teas, coffee... A book Cute holiday -themed items: Santa bobblehead, etc. $5 Gift certificate: coffee shop? Those Who are Close: Consider the person’s preferences. Anything for the desk: calendars, stationery, pens, and letter op

Follow These Steps to Get the Job You Want

Preparing for the Interview For over twenty years as an etiquette professional, I’ve trained countless job seekers. Not much has changed in those decades, except our expanded use of technology. Today, we can apply for a job using Social networking sites, such as LinkedIn. We commonly use an email program to contact an organization’s HR department. Additionally, we live on our cellphones. Many times, we use these electronic appendages to reply to those HR departments and recruiters. Some of those calls and emails could be the difference between a future job and a trip to the unemployment office. Consequently, it would benefit all job seekers to follow a few of my suggestions. Consider Your Use of a Cellphone Sure, texting is fast and convenient. However, it’s not the best method to use for answering emails from a recruiter or anyone else who may be trying to assist you in your job hunt. These replies should appear professional and well-thought-out. Therefore,

Is a bottle of liquor a good holiday gift for a boss?

Dear Rebecca , Is a bottle of liquor a good holiday gift for a boss? Sincerely, Liquor in the workplace. Dear Liquor in the Workplace, Most places of business frown on alcohol. Your gift may be viewed in negatively. Plus, it could appear as apple polishing. If you are remarkably close to your boss, you could give him/her something a bit less questionable, like homemade cookies . Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca How to Dress for Business Cruise? When is it Appropriate to Give Gifts to Supervisors Should I bring a hostess gift?

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