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In the world of business, first impressions can go a long, long way. Michael Rose & Baylis director, Adonis Michael, discusses the myriad reasons why manners maketh the man

words by Adonis MICHAEL

I can’t decide what’s worse, the wet and flimsy handshake or the bone cruncher; the person who keeps checking their social media or the one who keeps taking calls; the guy who blabbers on or the man who hardly says a word. In the course of business, I’ve experienced all of these, and needless to say that our endeavours did not progress past the first meeting. Business Etiquette is a funny old thing. Take a seat and let’s discuss.

First off let’s be clear: Business etiquette differs from region to region and from country to country, and as I’m limited to a strict word count for this column, I won’t be going into the niches and nuances of etiquette as it concerns different regions. I will save the intricacies of sipping Yamazaki 12 Year and locking eyes when bowing for the upcoming Japanese themed issue (you heard it here first, but don’t quote me on it). For the purposes of this piece, we will focus on some key pillars of business etiquette right here on home soil.

What is it anyway? Well there are no rules and regulations here, no written ones, anyway. In a nutshell, it’s about building relationships with other people. It’s about providing basic, social comfort and creating an environment where others feel comfortable and secure. This is possible through better communication, and communication is a sensitive thing. A look too long, a handshake too strong, a drink too many, and that deal you were about to seal or that job you were about to secure quickly turns into dust. Some people are naturally charismatic and they don’t need to think twice about charming their way into a deal or a high flying job, but for those looking to hone their skills a little, here are my top three tips on business etiquette.

1 Know the Names
Repeatedly getting someone’s name wrong or forgetting it all together and having to ask for it again is a major setback. It shows a lack of respect. Give others respect by not only knowing their names but also using their names. This is a very simple yet powerful technique which will increase goodwill and communication. 

2 Focus 
Concentrate on the meeting at hand and listen to what people are saying. If you are constantly checking your phone or taking calls then this says ‘I have other priorities’ or, worse still, ‘you’re just not that important to me.’  But let’s be honest, this is the modern world and we all have other commitments or other deals on going. It may be that there is a crucial call you have to take. If this is the case, then excuse yourself politely and ask if you may take a call. When you return, apologise and explain (without over divulging)) why you had to take the call. They will understand, but don’t make a habit of it. Allow this once, anymore and it’s downright rude.

3 Establish Common Ground
There is always more than one person or business that will be able to offer what you can. The reason you will be chosen over the next is because you are likeable. People want to do business with people they like. It’s as simple as that. A great way to get your personality across is by establishing common ground. Maybe they’ve just come back from a holiday at a place you’ve been to. Or maybe they’ve got a dog, or support the same football team (as you, not their dog). Whatever it may be, there will be something that you will have in common. It’s up to you to pick up on it and ask a few questions. It’s a small touch that will go a long, long way, but only if it comes from a genuine place. Don’t push it, and certainly and don’t be fake. No one likes a try hard. MRB