Distinguish
yourself from the competition with Etiquette and Protocol
Intelligence. In today's intense competition and mega-facetted
business world, the difference in the possibility of avoiding the pink
slip, achieving success, or securing the sell or promotion, is often a
very fine line. To "Outclass the Competition" we must adopt
the skills and tools required to set us apart and move us closer to
achieving our goals.
Technical skills and knowledge account for only 15% of the reason
you got your job, the reason you keep your job and only 15% of any
advancement in your job. Eighty-five percent of your job success is
connected to your people skills. This is based on research conducted
by Harvard University, the Carnegie Foundation, and the Stanford
Research Institute.
What is Etiquette and Protocol Intelligence? Etiquette and Protocol
Intelligence is defined as the ability to learn and apply appropriate
behavior. Everyone in a business setting feels uneasy at times. This
is normal. An uncomfortable time for many is a new-environment
networking meeting. This discomfort shows itself in costly first-
impression damaging faux paus. Stumbling through introductions,
barging into groups, answering a cell phone, eating before others have
been seated, and indiscreetly passing out business cards will sabotage
many business and social opportunities.
Executive etiquette is one of the hottest topics in 2001 as
research shows a subtle return to conservatism in the workplace.
Professionals everywhere are seeking assistance through courses,
books, training, and personal coaches to increase their skills and
interpersonal persuasion. Most people have climbed the corporate
ladder based on their skills and knowledge and expertise, only to find
that the higher they rise, the more people they have to manage. The
more people they have to manage, the more their interpersonal issues
surface.
Make these etiquette intelligence tips a part of your professional
character to set you apart and give you the social and business edge:
- Make a plan before your next meeting or networking function. Whom
do you want to meet and what do you want to accomplish?
- Greet your host with a handshake when arriving and again before
departing.
- Do not rush to the bar or buffet when entering a networking
meeting.
- Carry business cards in your pocket out of sight but convenient for
distributing.
- Approach individuals or groups of three or more and wait for a
break in conversation to introduce yourself.
- Acknowledge the whole group with eye contact and restate their
names when introducing yourself to a group.
- Excuse yourself as you leave each person or group and move on to
the next contact.
- Turn off your cell phone or put it on vibrate and do not use it
during the event except in an emergency.
- Keep the conversation positive and on business topics.
- Always write a hand-written note thanking your host, preferably
with in 24 hours of the event.
In business today the professional who desires a new position, more
recognition, upward mobility within their organization or more
business opportunities must pay particular attention to interpersonal
details. Outclassing the competition is a learned skill. With the
correct instruction and a little practice, anyone can appear confident
and graceful even in the most sophisticated environments.
For more information or questions contact
Bonnie
K. Hagemann with
Character
of Excellence, LLC at 877.263.2761. Bonnie is a Corporate
Etiquette and Protocol Consultant trained and certified by The
Protocol School of Washington®.
