We’ve all had those forgettable moments of monumental stupidity. Who hasn’t got a faux pas in the closet that still gets talked about? While goof ups in general may do little harm other than dent the ego, business gaffes can have much more serious consequences.

Here’s a list of some of the big business gaffes that must be avoided at all costs.

Saying the incorrect thing. In today’s hyper sensitive world, you can’t be too careful with what you say… or do. Politically insensitive comments, or off color jokes that can be construed as being racist, are going to win you no popularity points. In fact, they will probably cost you your reputation, and some business.

Also, mind your hands. Certain cultures are very conservative when it comes to physical contact between professional acquaintances. Take care not to overstep the line.

Showing up late. Possibly the worst of all business gaffes! If you’re going to be late for a meeting, due to circumstances beyond your control, be sure to let the other person know. No one likes to be kept waiting and being late shows a lack of respect for the other person and his or her time. And be careful not to be late a second time!

No email manners. The ease of emailing is the undoing of many who don’t know how to use it. Think before you send out cc’s to everyone in your address book. Take care that you’re not forwarding a trail of email messages with confidential information. Sometimes you might send out a completely irreverent, irrelevant and therefore unnecessary email to the wrong person. Save the frivolous for your personal email id.

Dressing wrong. Sure, the business environment has changed beyond recognition, and things are casual on the surface, but that doesn’t give you a license to dress trashy. Check the appropriate dress code for meetings and other occasions, unless you want to stick out like a sore thumb. A cardinal rule is that it is better to overdress than turn up in your well worn jeans, no matter how good you look in them.

Having too much fun. Think of the last party you were at and who was an absolute nuisance out there. Chances are, he or she had one too many. Even a social gathering at work, is still business. While it’s OK to let your hair down a little – indeed, you might come across as being churlish or a poor sport otherwise – don’t overdo it. Know how much liquor you can hold, and drink less than that.

Weak body language. While each of us has areas of improvement in this department, things like a limp handshake or lack of eye contact can make you come across as a weak or diffident person. And no one wants to work with such people. This one is hard to work on, but do it you must.

By: Akhil Shahani