Business owners can become so focused on increasing their profit margin that they forget to “be kind.” Although a lot of business can be done online, it is important to practice good manners both face-to-face and online. It is difficult to know what is acceptable and proper business conduct in light of the 21st-century business environment. When in doubt, remember to be kind and to make others feel comfortable in your space. This will help you build relationships that lead to repeat business, referrals, and long-lasting business friendships. Here are some suggestions to help you get started:
1. Thank you notes should be written.
Technology shouldn’t be used to take away the personal touch. Handwritten notes convey the powerful message that you value the person with whom you are dealing. Sometimes, an email “thank you” is appropriate. If you communicate with your client/customer mostly via email, you can continue doing so. However, if there was a face-to-face meeting, you should write a thank you note. Handwritten notes are more valuable than emails. Although an email can be saved for future reference, most people will discard the email after reading the thank-you note. Handwritten notes are rare and will make you stand out from the rest.
2. All phone calls must be returned or responded to.
While it’s easy to ignore calls from salespeople or business people you don’t want to speak to, it is not wise to do so. Your daily phone conversations can reveal a lot about your business and how you value customers. It also shows how you feel about people. You will get calls you don’t want to answer, but that is not the point of business. Make sure to return calls promptly and have your assistant respond respectfully. If you don’t want the product they are selling, say so and thank them. You may be overlooking a potential customer depending on the product you use. You may ignore someone who could connect you with many people or give you referrals. Building relationships is the essence of business. If they are in sales, you may be ignoring someone who can help you connect with people or send you referrals that could benefit you and your customers.
3. Take an interest in others.
Do not try to sell your product immediately when you meet someone new in the business. You may love your product, and it may be the most innovative product since mankind discovered fire. However, people don’t care about what you sell until you demonstrate that you are interested. If you sell a product and don’t get to know the person, it sends the message that you only care about making a sale. Spend some time getting to know the person you’re meeting for the first time. Find out about their needs, assess your ability to help, and then follow up and share your solution.
4. Learn to get to know people and names.
Make it a habit to get to know people and their names when you meet them in business. Even if they have to repeat their name, it is your job to remember the names of people you meet. It is a great way to recall the name of someone you have just met is to repeatedly repeat it to them throughout the conversation. This means that you should be more interested in learning their stories than just about yourself. It is more meaningful and more appropriate to learn about other people.
5. Pay attention to the person in front of your computer.
Look at the person in front of you if they are in your office. You may find it difficult not to be distracted by emails, texts, and phone calls. The best solution is to turn off all notifications when you are in meetings. Respect their time and schedule an appointment if you have thought of the person enough to do so.
6. Only give out one business card.
Never give more than one business card to someone. When you meet with someone, make a lasting impression and present one business card. Let them know you appreciate referrals. They will understand. They will remember you and be more likely to refer you to their business.
7. Follow through.
You can build a reputation for being trustworthy by keeping your word. This will attract people to do business with your company. Strong integrity is one of the best branding concepts that you can attach to it. Do your best to keep your promises. It is important that you show up to an event if you have RSV’P. You can promise to return your phone calls if you make a promise. Follow through if you make a promise to pay a bill or do business with someone. You should keep your appointments and reschedule when possible. You are the professional business person you claim to be by following through.
8. Do not send mass emails that are revealing.
You can send the same email to multiple people within your business by using a blind courtesy copy, which does not reveal anyone else’s email address.
9. Don’t text the special of today.
Do not send a message asking for business to someone who has not asked you for your business texts. Respect people’s privacy and peace of mind, even if you are the best possible deal.
Your business will thrive if you treat others the same way. You will be able to stay in business for many years if you put people first. Business etiquette is essential to building long-lasting relationships. Even if you don’t expect it, you will get your business.