New Business Etiquette

By Marsha Egan

In yesteryear, we did not have things like cell phones, email, and voice mail.  But we do now, and Emily Post might turn over in her grave if she sees how some folks are handling these new situations.  Here are some guidelines to move us along in this world of “new” things:

Email

• “Clean up” emails you forward.  No one likes to read the prior ten back and forth comments.
• Start every email with a salutation
• Sign every email, and include your contact information.  Auto signatures are great for this.
• Copy only those persons who truly need the information

Voice Mail

• Leave a detailed message that always includes your phone number and best time you can be reached.
• Provide an introduction and your name when forwarding a voice mail message.
• Your voicemail greeting should include directions on how to reach someone else if the concern is urgent.

Cell phones:

• Turn off your cell phone in meetings; focus your attention fully on the meeting. If you are expecting an important call, periodically check your phone to see if any messages have been left, then, for ONLY truly urgent calls, excuse yourself and leave the meeting to retrieve the message
• Never put your cell phone on the conference table
• Find a private area to make and take cell phone calls. No one likes to hear others’ conversations, do you?
• Keep cell phone calls BRIEF when you are in public areas or in earshot of others.
• Turn the ringer to low to avoid annoying others.
• Shouting into cell phones is another etiquette blurp (no matter HOW bad the reception is…)
• Always turn the cell phone off during public performances.
• Never put your cell phone on the table in a restaurant.
• Never make/take a call while at the table in a restaurant; remember to excuse yourself and move to a private area.
• If you inadvertently forget to turn your cell phone off, and it rings while you are in a meeting, turn it off immediately and apologize. You can discreetly check the number that called to see if it is a possible emergency. Otherwise return the call as soon as you can after the meeting.
• Leaving a cell phone on while on the golf course could be hazardous to your health, especially if it rings in the middle of your boss’s backswing.
• Most of all, be safe with cell phones. Use the hands free option if using a cell phone in your car, and watch where you are walking if you are walking and talking at the same time.

Etiquette is not really new;  it has had to change because the world is changing.  Whether it is gender equality or new efficiency tools, etiquette has always had its base in respect for others… And that will never change

Marsha Egan, CPCU, PCC

The LeverEdge Coach

CEO, The Egan Group, Inc.

Reading, PA

610-777-3795