Basics of Business Etiquette for Women
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Business etiquette is one which confuses a lot of women. There are so many things to consider when you go into the often male-dominated business world. Things like, whether or not to offer a handshake; dress code and whether it matters…in a post published on The Huffington Post, M.E. Porter gives us some tips on the basics of business etiquette for women. Here are excerpts:
On Fashion Etiquette
Fashion may not seem to play a role in the boardroom, but be assured that it does – in fact the first thing most male colleagues use as a source of assessing your validity as one to be taken seriously, is your attire. Because many women in business are in male dominated industries, proper dress codes – etiquettes – are of the utmost importance. Well-dressed is not enough, properly-dressed in a must. Suits – modest colors, proper length (just above the knee) and relaxed fit pants, are appropriate for meetings and presentations. It is considered as unmannered to wear informal dresses like shorts, sweatshirts, baseball caps, miniskirts for women during any business occasions, unless otherwise is previously stated – for example an informal meeting on the golf course. Stick the basics: modest colors, classic styles – A-line skirts and heels no higher than 3 inches and relaxed fits.
On Customary Etiquette
The mighty hand shake is an appropriate greeting gesture for women to offer her colleagues, both male and female. Hugs – no so much ladies! Focused, non-threatening eye contact (not “the look” that you give your children) is a polite way of confirming that you are fully engaged in the business at hand. Not shaking hands, sitting when others are standing and lack of eye contact, are considered to be bad manners – which equal bad business etiquette – which can equal less validation in your expertise, which ultimately affect your bottom-line profit. The absolute “no-no” in business conversation is asking personal questions that are irrelevant to the businesses or sensitive to personal security or personal comfort of others. Stick to the basics: polite greetings, non-threatening eye contact and keep it business, never engage in your own or others personal lives.
On Communication Etiquette
Next to your over outer appearance and adherence to customary body language and behaviors, the most necessary business code to follow, is the means in which you communicate with others. There no nothing worse than a well – dressed, well -coached woman that cannot properly or effectively communicate her voice in the boardroom. Although some may be forgiving, most will dismiss the validity of your knowledge and expertise. Here are some basic communication skills for either in-person and business phone calls or virtual connection, such as webinars:
• Always your entire attention on matter at hand – your focus shows that you value the time and attention of your colleagues.
• Enunciate/articulate clearly. Speak distinctly.
• Use Plain English and avoid unnecessary jargon and acronyms.
• Use action specific words and directions.
• If you need to make a specific point to someone present, use a proper name. Do not say things like – “The gentlemen to my left.”
• Always speak with proper tone and use words that flow naturally or fit the arena in which you are in.
Although not included above, please note that business is not the place for inappropriate emotional outburst – under any circumstance and should avoided
For more on business etiquette, Click here
You can find M.E. Porter on Twitter: www.twitter.com/SoulutionSage
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