The most important step in forming  a business relationship is the first encounter or meeting. There are basic rules of business etiquette that should be maintained to determine the outcome of that meeting. In an increasingly global market, mannerism displayed will either make or break a relationship. The few pointers below may seem common sense, but surprisingly, often times they are ignored.

FIVE GLOBAL BUSINESS ETIQUETTE FOR SUCCESS

Addressing Others Whether first encounter or meeting in a board room, address each other with respect and courtesy. Regardless of age, number of years in the working world, race, gender, language, culture, customs, each participant in a meeting is equal. The reason is simple – each person brings something unique to the table and deserve equal respect and recognition, without which a healthy relationship cannot be built. Think Steve Jobs and the “Google Guys”, Sergey Brin and Larry Page. All three men are no less than the other even though Jobs launched his business when both Page and Brin were just babies. Innovation, sustainability and success are not bound by age, gender or culture, but by imagination, creativity, intelligence and adaptability. Addressing one another with that equal footing will help to form a strong relationship, leading to mutual success.

Communication Clear and concise communication is another fundamental element. In a global world it is necessary to understand and effectively communicate your message that is easily understood in diverse countries and cultures. Body language alone convey 75% of the message. Communication errors between generations are common. As explained above, age or experience does not automatically give an individual the right to offer advice by default. When doing so, the message can be seen as arrogant and condescending. As a receiver of that unwanted advice, the best solution is to thank the person, regardless whether it’s relevant or not, and excuse yourself. By doing so, you will avoid unpleasantness and maintain civility.

Accepting, Adapting and Sensitivity When conducting business in an international setting, cultural differences will no doubt be visible. However, the focus should be the business at hand and not different ways – be it accent, directness or politeness, aggressive or passive ways, so on and so forth. I would say this is the most basic attribute in conducting business in global setting – that is if you want to stay one step ahead of the curve. A South African diplomat once shared how accepting and respecting other cultures helped her grow, personally and professionally. I learned that it is the culture in certain part of Africa (memory fails to recall exact country) where hands are wiped on the skirts of table cloth after a meal. Imagine what your reaction may be without that vital information if you were to conduct business in that country. The trick is to learn, understand, accept and be sensitive to these different cultures, not make the other person(s) adapt to your ways. Keep it simple and open.

Confident, Yet Humble It is important to know your abilities and expertise. That knowledge will result in presenting yourself with confidence and authority. Both maybe achieved with humility: you know your niche market but at the same time are humbled by your achievements. Sometimes confidence maybe mistaken for arrogance, often times among competitors than prospects. If that is so, instead of being offended, regard it as a compliment, to quote a mentor. No matter where success leads, a little humility will always go a long way. More doors will open up when confident and humble than when confident and arrogant.

Keeping Cool Tempers are bound to flare in any business setting, often caused by competition, stress, demand and other internal and external factors. Regardless of the situation, keeping cool is smart. However, sometimes it’s easier said than done. One of the easiest way to avoid a direct conflict is to end unproductive conversations and/or meetings. That will allow all involved to cool off and meet at a different setting. Productivity thrives in harmony as do ideas and solutions. Open and transparent suggestions will lead to possible solutions. Repetitive discussion of problems without offering solutions is counterproductive and will plummet morale, decreasing productivity regardless of culture, industry or setting.

Applying these simple and yet powerful etiquette will brand you as a sharp and savvy global businessperson. What business manners are important to you and what would you want others to implement? Share your thoughts.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, May 18th, 2010 at 4:22 pm and is filed under Best Practices, Business. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.