LONDON (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The rules of etiquette also apply during business meetings. Not sure how to behave during a business dinner or lunch with a (potential) partner? Here is a list of a few rules that can offer something to hold on to.
1. Clothes
Dress appropriately for the situation. It should reflect your reputation and contribute to your credibility. Not too casual, but if you dress too tight or too businesslike, it may not show your personality enough. So it’s best to think about it in advance.
2. Use your full name
Always introduce yourself with your full name. Also use the name with which your conversation partner introduces himself. If you have a long name or if you prefer to be called something else, first give your full name and then say “… but feel free to say…” and then your nickname or chosen title.
3. Stand up
If you are introduced to someone, stand up straight. If circumstances prevent you from getting up, make a movement that makes it clear that you did have that intention. This is how you acknowledge someone’s presence in a polite, active way.
4. Get out of your phone
During a formal meeting, it’s rude to sit texting, on the phone, or even email. Unfortunately, it still happens too much. If you urgently need to check your messages or make a phone call, excuse yourself, go to the washroom and check your messages there.
5. Order modestly
Don’t order the most expensive thing the restaurant has to offer, especially if you’re not the host. If the host or hostess makes a suggestion that is a bit more expensive, you can follow him or her. Be wary of the waiter’s suggestions, as it’s better not to ask about the price in a business company (and it could be expensive). It is therefore best to stick to the menu and follow your table group if possible.
6. Don’t offer a seat
This is often expected in social etiquette, but in business etiquette everyone is equal and therefore you do not have to take gender etiquette into account. You can invite your group to sit down, but pointing to a chair or pulling back is not necessary. If this happens at all, it is often by the waiter.
7. Don’t Point During a Conversation
It is rude to use your index finger during a conversation and it often comes across as aggressive. If you want to point out or make a point, use an open palm and keep your fingers together.
8. Don’t Thank Too Much
Don’t say “thank you” more than once or twice during a conversation. You seem less strong and confident, maybe even a little helpless. Thanking too much also diminishes the value of sentiment. So be appreciative and respectful, but don’t be swept under the rug. You mean the same to each other.
9. Don’t Clean Up
Don’t do the waiter’s job. Well-intentioned as it is, focus on nurturing your business relationships. Stacking plates, clearing glasses or clearing cutlery can distract you from your task and make your business partner frown.
10. Thank everyone individually
You can thank your business partners individually after a meeting by writing a personal note or a personalised email. It’s good aftercare that keeps the conversation going.
11. The host or hostess pays
If you were explicitly invited or if the invitee is doing you a favour by coming by, then it is only logical that the host or hostess takes care of the bill. As a woman, this is not always easy, because some men still see it as their duty to pay for them. Social etiquette is still often confused with business etiquette here, and some male business associates get stuck on gender etiquette.
