As the holiday season approaches, you'll likely attend professional social events that blend work and celebration. These occasions demand polished etiquette to build lasting impressions. Drawing from Barbara Pachter's authoritative book, The Essentials of Business Etiquette, here are 21 proven rules to elevate your professionalism, whether you're networking or dining with colleagues.
- Stand up when introduced to someone.
- Always say your full name.
- Initiate a handshake if you're the senior person or host.
- Dress neatly and appropriately.
- Say "thank you" only once or twice during a conversation.
- Send separate thank-you notes to everyone involved.
- Leave your phone in your pocket.
- Use professional photos for LinkedIn and other professional sites.
- If you forget someone's name, admit it gracefully.
- Greet people at work every day.
- Keep your fingers together when pointing.
- When sending email, double-check the recipient.
- Never pull out someone's chair in front of them.
- Always break bread with your hands.
- Don't order the most expensive item on the menu.
- Know proper table settings for plates and cutlery.
- Match the guest or host's order in portion size.
- Never ask for a doggy bag.
- Remember, the host always pays.
- Stay sober at professional events.
- Prepare a polite exit strategy.
