Posts Tagged ‘Business World’

Business Etiquette – A Primer on Your Business and Social Dynamics

February 4th, 2010



Managing your behaviors in a positive way – good manners or “etiquette” if you will – will serve you well in your business and personal life. The term “business etiquette” refers particularly to those behaviors in the business world that can impact your career favorably. But what is it exactly? The dictionary defines etiquette as “the conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life.” Now, here’s the problem with that definition: it conjures up images of people drinking tea out of delicate china cups with their pinkie fingers extended. For that reason, I don’t like the term “etiquette.” 

Emily Post once said, “Etiquette is the science of living.” Ah, now that’s better. Given that it’s all about our behaviors and attitudes, I choose to call this concept “Business and Social Dynamics,” since we’re talking about the dynamics of your interactions in your business and social life. There are other terms I like, as well: presence, professionalism, emotional intelligence. Why is this concept so important? When our behaviors are positive and professional, we have a powerful, positive presence – we’re noticed and taken seriously. When we practice these skills, we’re more likeable. And when we’re more likeable, our interactions are more productive, our environment is more pleasant, and our desired outcomes are usually more successful.

Here are some of these dynamics or behaviors — little things that mean a lot:
Show interest in others. Nothing – and I mean nothing – is a stronger likeability factor. Be a good listener. Pay attention when others are talking, hear what they’re saying, and let them know you’ve heard them by responding appropriately.  Don’t interrupt someone who is talking. Resist trying to top another person’s story. Practice basic good manners: say “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” when appropriate. Step up, take initiative, volunteer – it’s extremely memorable. Learn to make proper introductions. Here’s a tip: whenever possible, you say the name of the more important person first. Strive to learn and remember people’s names. Repeating the name, asking for its spelling, committing to remembering it, and making word associations will help. Return phone calls and emails promptly. Mind your dining manners. Don’t talk with your mouth full, learn place settings so you know which glass is yours (everything you drink from is on the right), choose your utensils from the outside in, put your napkin on your lap when you sit down at the table, and leave it there until you rise to leave. Compliment good ideas and good work. Be a team player. Not everyone can be the captain. Don’t engage in malicious gossip or spread rumors. Don’t whine and complain to others about things that can’t be fixed. Make your Facebook and other social media profiles clean and professional – something you’ll have no regrets about. Write a note – to say thank you, congratulations, best wishes, I’m sorry, etc. Strive to make others feel comfortable – whether it’s a newcomer, a customer, a guest, a junior associate. Show enthusiasm and energy in everything you do.

By: Barbara Busey

Importance of Business Software

November 18th, 2009



If you are a starting your own small business you need to be as organized and efficient as possible. One of the tools that you can use to achieve these goals is business software. Many entrepreneurs who are interested in the process of starting their own business may not be into computers or even have an aversion to technology, unfortunately in today’s business world if you don’t have the right tools which usually includes business software you and your business are dead in the water.

The good news about business software is that it is easier and in some case more affordable than ever. With much more powerful computers and many different software producing companies competing against one another, the consumer ultimately wins. No matter what industry or type of small business you have, there is business software that can help organize your expenses, analyze your sales and correspond with customers, manufacturers and other businesses.

Besides general business tools such as MS Office, there are plenty of business software available for ecommerce web sites and auction site merchants. Whether you are a one person operation or have a dozen employees, using business software can ultimately help you be more profitable.

You can find current information and up to the minute reviews and opinions online at software forums. Whether it is Microsoft products, Adobe Photoshop or any type of specialize business software, you can usually do a search and find some reviews based on using a specific software product. So before you go out and spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on business software, do your homework and see what others have to say about it.

By: Christain Cullen