Business Etiquette

Committing a social faux pas in conversation is not only embarrassing, it can damage personal and professional relationships. One of the easiest ways to be inappropriate is by asking intrusive and…

Receiving sympathy cards filled with love and caring words is often the only bright spot in a time of grieving. Responding to the condolences of your friends and family members is not only polite, but…

Islamic culture is different from most Western cultures because religion influences every aspect of a Muslim's life, right down to how he or she sleeps. When traveling to an Islamic nation or when…

With the dropped "h" and words with "th" often sounding like "tur," it may seem like Jamaicans speak a foreign language -- and this is true to some degree. However, the official language of the island…

While in court, you want to project an image that is calm, collected, polished and professional. Suits that fit correctly, have clean lines, simple colors and not filled with busy patterns will…

Offering envelopes are most often used at church services, as a way to discretely give a gift of money to the church during the part of the service called "The Offering" or "The Offertory." Offering…

The U.S. is a multicultural society that absorbs influences from all over the globe, earning it the nickname "the Melting Pot." Four-fifths of U.S. citizens claim European ancestry. Their cuisines…

Many people believe that manners and etiquette are no longer important in today's world, while others see it as an important, but lost, art. It is no secret that there are a lot of people who simply…

When you address a woman who you do not know personally, it is most appropriate to address her with the title Ms. or Ma'am until you know her marital status or professional rank. While Ms. is…

When it comes to confidentiality, there's a difference between business etiquette and confidentiality mandated by law. Just because confidentiality isn't explicitly stated by law doesn't mean that…

Proper business etiquette in restaurants is essential, especially when meeting people for the first time. Poor table manners can make an unfavorable impression, potentially harming a job interview or…

Business in the 21st century relies on a number of technological tools, making modern-day business etiquette even more complex. Rather than just picking up the phone to call a coworker, supervisor or…

Whether you're interviewing for a new job, are preparing for a business meeting or just want to know how to maintain a pleasant workplace environment, you'll need to know all you can about business…

Etiquette is all about portraying yourself in a manner that is acceptable to the society in general. This includes everything, from the way you speak to the way you dress. Business specifically…

Etiquette is an important part of business life. If you do not demonstrate proper etiquette in a business situation, people may question your professionalism and abilities. Knowing the basics of…

Whether you're conducting a business meeting, working with new clients or negotiating with corporate partners, it's essential to exercise business etiquette in these situations in order to make the…

International colleagues who plan on doing business in Sweden often visit the country to negotiate trade deals concerning machinery, petroleum, and clothing, as these are some of Sweden's essential…

Located on the Korean peninsula south of China's northeastern corner in Manchuria, Korea is divided between South Korea and North Korea. Most visitors to Korea will find themselves in South Korea.

Monaco's main industries include agriculture, cosmetics and tourism, so as a result the country does business with professionals from various parts of the world. A degree of formality is expected when…

As a professional, it's essential to know how to properly communicate over the phone. Following rules of etiquette when making and receiving calls will make a great impression and build a favorable…

No matter what career field you're in, it's essential to know the basics of business etiquette. Showing courtesy and respect when greeting someone, participating in a business meeting or accepting a…

Whether you are a speaker making a presentation or a member of the audience, there are some rules of etiquette you should follow. Consider the relationship between a speaker and the audience to be…

Proper business etiquette varies by region, and sometimes within the regions themselves. In South America, many countries share similar business etiquette. To be ready for business transactions in…

Korea's economy is known for the export of important electronic devices such as computers, and the country does significant trading with Japan and the United States. Korean professionals are expanding…

Misunderstandings can lead to serious business problems, so good business etiquette can affect your bottom line. According to the U.S. Commercial Service, “Cultural nuances can have a…

Samoa relies on imports from countries like the United States and Australia, and provides food items such as cocoa and fish to these countries as well. As the economy grows, Samoan professionals will…

One of the Macedonia's major trade partners is Bulgaria, but other countries, such as China, are interested in lending financial support to Macedonia's agricultural sector, according to…

Whether you're starting your own business, searching for new employment, or representing your corporation at a business function or meeting, being aware of and practicing proper business etiquette is…

If you work in a field in which you have to negotiate often, it's very important that you know the etiquette associated with negotiating, such as how to speak to a potential client and how to behave…

Business etiquette in a global economy can be a challenge. Each culture has different forms of etiquette that is important to their society. In the business environment, you don't want to offend a…

Namibia is known for its production of diamonds and minerals, but the country depends on other regions of the world for resources such as fuel and food. Since the Namibian economy depends on and…

Professional practices have changed significantly in the past few decades, due to advances in technology and an increased number of women in the workplace. These are just some of the reasons…

While China and Japan are Australia's main trade partners, Australia also does significant business with the United States, India and the Republic of Korea, due to its rich resources, such as coal and…

Austria does business quite often with countries such as the Netherlands, the United States and Germany, and exports items like steel, textiles and machinery at significant rates every year. In order…

Lebanon often does business with countries like Switzerland and Syria, and the country manufactures a number of quality items, including construction materials, jewelry and textiles. Professionals who…

Switzerland's thriving economy produces valuable commodities such as metals, textiles and machinery, and the country does business often with the U.S., Germany and Italy. When traveling to Switzerland…

Ecuador's oil-rich economy makes for favorable business relations with countries such as the U.S., Peru and Panama. The country also exports a number of food items, such as coffee, seafood and…

Denmark often does business with Germany, the UK and the U.S., and manufactures products such as machinery, wood products and textiles. International professionals should be aware of the conservative…

Arabic countries have an abundance of oil and petroleum products, which provides their area of the world with plenty of international business relationships. If you will be doing business in an Arabic…

If you or your company plans to do business in tradition-rich Spain, knowing how to practice proper etiquette is extremely important. Spanish people are especially social and friendly and generally…

Australia does business with countries such as China and the United States often, and the country's economy was ranked second on the United Nations 2009 Human Development Index. If you will be doing…

Sri Lanka often does business with countries such as India and Singapore, and is known for exporting valuable items including emeralds and diamonds. Sri Lanka also depends on imports such as petroleum…

Asia produces many exports, such as textiles, automobiles and electronics, that are beneficial to consumers around the world. So professionals from other parts of the world should know the basics of…

If you plan to open a business soon or want to know how to give your corporation a better reputation, it's a good idea to start researching--and incorporating--some American business etiquette basics.…

Located in Eastern Asia and bordering the East and Yellow Seas, South Korea is an international business destination for many westerners. Featuring many companies in the automobile, semiconductor,…

If you plan to do business in Greece, it's important to learn about a few rules of etiquette before you arrive. The friendly, easy-going nature of the Greek people sometimes translates to the business…

If you are planning on doing business in Brazil, it's essential to do some research on the easy-going, friendly business etiquette that is the norm in the country. Learning how to greet professionals…

Finland professionals conduct a number of business deals with colleagues from countries like the U.S., the UK, Sweden and Russia. Finland exports items like metals, machinery and paper products. This…

Iran's economy is thriving because of the country's abundance of oil and gas; Iran holds almost 10 percent of the world's oil reserves, which means Iranian professionals often do business with…

If you work in an office building where you come in close contact with colleagues regularly, or are looking to do so, you should be aware of the etiquette expected in such an environment. Learning how…

Germany boasts one of the highest export rates in the world, and produces first-class automobiles like Porsche and BMW. However, the country also relies on professionals from other regions for…

It's essential for international businesspeople to know the rules of etiquette in other parts of the world, to make a good impression. However, there are also some etiquette guidelines that…

In professional situations, it is essential for businesspeople to exercise proper etiquette for a number of reasons. Extending proper courtesies can help you to make a good impression on colleagues as…

The country of Syria boasts exports such as crude oil, but the country also relies on corporations from other parts of the world to import items like dairy products and pharmaceuticals. Most citizens…

Vietnam relies on other countries for imports like petroleum products and electronic equipment, but also provides various parts of the world with textiles, rubber, rice and coffee. Because of this,…

Finding out how Hispanic professionals conduct business is important for people who deal with multilingual companies. Educating yourself on how Hispanic business people act in their meetings can help…

Sweden's business etiquette is somewhat formal but does not involve a number of rules and regulations that are difficult to remember. It is very important for professionals who are visiting the…

When doing business in Italy, it's important to be aware of the etiquette associated with professional dress. Italian professionals dress particularly fashionably and expect international colleagues…

Pakistan is continually growing in economic power and is ranked 27th in the world in purchasing power, according to Economy Watch.com. Countries such as China and the United States often form business…

Madagascar's economy is largely agriculture-based and the country is a popular tourist attraction. Due to the government's efforts to make the country financially appealing, professionals in…

In 1993, the government passed the Family and Medical leave act, which allows mothers to take up to 12 weeks off in a 12-month period to care for their newborn children. You can take the time all at…

If you are doing business with professionals in Europe, be aware of the business culture in this part of the world so that you can behave accordingly. Adhering to the formal, detailed-oriented nature…

England has one of the world's biggest economies and exports items for the aerospace and software industries. This is one of the reasons that the country is constantly doing business with…

India has strong cultural norms that need to be respected when conducting business. If you ignore these rules, you could offend your Indian counterparts, preventing important business deals from being…

Poland's economy is made strong by exports like furniture and cars, but the country also does business in areas that can provide imports such as computers and pharmaceuticals. If you or your company…

The European economy relies significantly on trading with other countries, and produces a number of products that are of interest to international professionals. If you are interested in doing…

The Trinidadian economy continues to advance in the areas of telecommunications and natural gas, which means that professionals from other countries often express interest in doing business with…

Panama's economy is successful in large part because of tourism, but banking drives the financial health of the country. Panamanian businesspeople are accustomed to interacting with professionals from…

Kuwait is a very wealthy country because of its oil resources, and does much business with other countries. When doing business in Kuwait, it's essential to behave according to Kuwaiti rules of…

Even though your business primarily retains customers that live in the United States, you may be considering expanding your client base to the rest of North America. The continent of North America…

Whether you're inviting colleagues to a business dinner, or have received an invitation for such an event, it's important to know how etiquette can help you to make a good impression with co-workers.…

Indonesia is popular for its export of natural resources, particularly gas and oil, and often enters into deals with other nations. The country also exports a large number of textiles each year, which…

If you plan on doing business in Mexico, particularly in Mexico City, it is best to be aware of some basic etiquette rules that will allow you to make a great impression during business meetings.…

Cambodia's agriculture is appealing to professionals in many parts of the world, as the country's farmers grow large amounts of rice, corn and cashews. Tourism is also very popular in the country, so…

If you are planning on doing business with a Latin American colleague, or you are traveling to Central or South America for negotiations, it is crucial to be aware of professional etiquette for the…

Whether you're looking to form a professional partnership with another company or want to introduce your new company to the world, it's essential to be aware of basic business etiquette. Knowing how…

If you are planning on doing business in a Latin American country, you should learn all you can about business etiquette for Latin American professionals so that you and your company can make a great…

If you work in an office cubicle or are a receptionist in a corporate environment, it's important to learn all you can about cubicle etiquette. Following certain rules of respect that will make all…

The Haitian economy thrives on agriculture, as well as electrical machinery and petroleum. Professionals in Haiti do business with people in other countries often, so being aware of the etiquette…

Whether you're signing a document by hand or want to include a recognizable company symbol in all of your business emails, it's important to exercise follow when using a signature. The signature…

If you're looking to expand your business to include international clients, it's important to be aware of the professional customs that are practiced in other countries to give your company a good…

Kenya is known for its rich agricultural economy, and particularly for its sales of premium coffee to countries all around the world. As a professional, it's important to be aware of Kenyan business…

The people of Norway conduct professional relationships using structure and discipline, and refrain from negatively criticizing ways of doing business that come from other countries.

The oil industry is the dominant force that drives Iraq's economy, which makes doing business in the country attractive for many international professionals. Practicing acceptable Iraq business…

Professionals who go outside of their native country to do business need to understand the international business etiquette rules, so they can avoid offending businesspeople with varying practices.…

Professionals in the process of securing a deal with potential partners, as well as company executives looking to boost company morale, will often schedule a business dinner as a courtesy or business…

The German concept of Ordnung, or 'order', shapes the way that German professionals do business and negotiate professional deals. It's important to learn how Ordnung also fits into the business…

Dubai has developed over the past three decades into a location where international professionals can meet to engage in negotiations. According to the government of Dubai, the country has become the…

Although Saudi Arabia is well known for its oil-based economy, the nation also offers many other business opportunities. Practicing correct Saudi Arabian business etiquette can help to build…

Whether you're starting a new job or have an upcoming business meeting, it's important to wear the right attire. Putting together an appropriate outfit will give you confidence when meeting with other…

Taiwan's economy depends largely on trade from countries like the U.S. and Hong Kong, as the country manufactures machinery, textiles, and steel in large amounts. This is why international…

Businesspeople who plan on securing professional connections in Malaysia should take the time to review the customs of one of the most economically developed countries in Southeast Asia. A few simple…

Good manners can make or break a business deal when the exchange is conducted over lunch. Some of the obvious business luncheon goofs include arriving late, answering a cell phone during the meal or…

Northern Ireland is one of four countries in the United Kingdom, along with Scotland, Wales and England. There are cultural nuances in each country, but business etiquette is fairly standard…

Mali is the largest of the West African countries, but is also one of the world's poorest countries. Malian economy centers on agriculture and mining, with cotton, gold and livestock being its main…

If you've been invited to a business cocktail party, there are a few rules of etiquette to keep in mind to make a good impression and improve professional relationships. Adhering to proper etiquette…

Qatar is an Arab emirate in the Middle East and is rich in oil and gas reserves. That makes it a popular destination for international business executives who are involved in energy and related…

U.S. professionals who do business with Japanese corporations may find that a number of the traditions and expectations are similar. However, there are some aspects of Japanese professional etiquette…

Islam is practiced all over the world by billions of people and is considered the fastest growing religion. Doing business in the Muslim world is heavily affected by religion and related cultural…

Venezuela is a popular place for international business because of its vast energy reserves. According to the British Broadcasting Co. it has some of the largest oil deposits in the world, along with…

If you're interested in establishing professional connections with businesspeople in Brazil, it's essential to learn some basic rules of etiquette for the country before your trip. Brazilian business…

Brazil's economy is steadily improving; the country has become the most economically powerful in South America, according to researchers at MapXL. The growing number of opportunities for business…

Belgium is widely known for its gourmet food, and the country also exports metals and manufactured goods, making it an ideal country to do business with for a number of professionals. When traveling…

Ethiopia is a very traditional society. There are many customs and ceremonies preserved in everyday social interactions in the country. This observance of etiquette is equally strong in the workplace,…

Understanding another culture's etiquette is absolutely essential to building rapport and communicating effectively. For business people from the West this is particularly true of East Asian cultures…

U.S. professionals in the coffee and seafood industries do business with Nicaragua quite often, which is just one of the reasons a number of U.S. businesspeople visit Nicaragua to maintain and…

By definition, etiquette is a code of ethics that tells us how to behave in a professional setting. While specific rules of etiquette change from one culture to the next and across generations, the…

Bereaved business associates usually appreciate condolence correspondence and sympathies from professional contacts and coworkers. It is generally appropriate to send letters of condolence to…

Business etiquette refers to the social customs observed when dealing with business clients, as well as behavior around the office. These are more than just signs of respect, they can prove crucial to…

The main factors to consider when sending salespeople abroad center around international business etiquette and understanding the customs of the host country. Innocent oversights can turn into…

Doing business with a company based outside of your own country is tricky work. Certain customs or mannerisms that would be perfectly acceptable in one culture (such as displaying a "peace sign" or…

Terminating a business contract is a natural part of business. This can occur due to rising costs, lack of performance or even a lack of funding from the business purchasing the service (or the…

Business etiquette in Japan can be understood in terms of mutual respect and honoring someone else's station in life. Still, Japan is changing, and Japanese people have studied and absorbed a large…

Business etiquette is a very sensitive subject for those doing business internationally. Much of business etiquette stems from what is or is not appropriate in the respective culture. It is generally…

Addressing a business envelope gives you the opportunity to present a positive image to the recipient of the letter. The goal is to make the recipient feel respected and obliged to reply to your…

Singapore is characterized by a blend of different cultures and traditions. It is located in Southeast Asia. The country is in a strategic location and is a major center for trade, tourism and…

Blackberry etiquette in business is a much-debated topic. The etiquette of Blackberry use depends greatly upon the corporate culture in which you work, the context of use and the people surrounding…

PowerPoint offers a convenient method for presenting information about how to behave in a professional setting. Several business etiquette guidelines can easily be highlighted in any PowerPoint…

Differences in culture often translate to differences in etiquette and business protocol. When an individual understands a foreign country's business etiquette, she has a greater chance of achieving…

According to the Greek National Tourism Organization, Greece is a country located in southeastern Europe. It has a population of about 11 million people.

The business environment is becoming increasingly global, and people are conducting business internationally more and more. In the United States, business etiquette is essential for building enduring…

Making a good impression can make or break a deal. However, when conducting business in Asia, one must remember that business etiquette is entirely different across the Pacific.

The proper etiquette for addressing married women has changed over the course of the 20th Century. It was once customary in English-speaking countries to address the wife of John Smith as "Mrs. John…

When you're asked to do something inappropriate at work-whether it's a minor request, like keeping an eye on the boss' visiting child while she goes to a meeting in another department, or something…

The moment a person lays eyes on you, they size you up. This is especially true in the business world, where appearance matters. Chances are, you have taken care of the basics: You look professional…

If you want to be taken seriously by your clients, colleagues and bosses, you have to know and practice business etiquette. There are certain manners and practices that you should always observe in…

Business etiquette can be traced to the French royal courts in the 17th century as a strict guide to social and business behavior. The rules were further defined and strictly enforced during the…

Psychologist Dr. Geert Hofstede, who spent six years collecting and analyzing data from more than 100,000 individuals from 40 different countries, says the following: "As international,…

What you wear to an interview and what you wear to work shows that you have proper business etiquette. Aside from looking presentable, being properly dressed means that you take your job seriously and…

Understanding another culture's customs and preferred etiquette is essential to successful communication. Every culture maintains universal traits, but communication styles, behaviors and even…

There are many ways to communicate in the business world, from making an introduction to answering the phone, writing an email or chairing a meeting. Each of these types of business communication has…

Business etiquette in other countries can be drastically different from the often informal ambiance in the United States. Chinese culture often treats rules for meetings, business card exchange and…

Jamaican business etiquette can be traced back through the country's culture and long history. Slavery, the long toiling and hard work on colonial plantations, the coming of foreigners, and Jamaica's…

In order to use appropriate business language, it's important to listen, to avoid using slang and to speak in complete sentences. Avoid talking about coworkers at a place of business with advice from…

In order to get through a dinner with your boss, it's important to avoid being nervous, to be yourself and to use good manners. Prepare an exit strategy for dinner with a boss with advice from a…

Success at an interview is based on doing research prior to the interview, arriving early, dressing appropriately and projecting confidence. Thank an interviewer for the opportunity with advice from a…

The proper etiquette when dressing for business involves presenting a neat and clean image, which doesn't mean that the attire has to be boring. Accessorize business attire with this free video from…

When answering a business call, the proper etiquette involves answering the phone while smiling, talking in a pleasant tone and getting the pertinent information out quickly. Talk with professionalism…

To start an etiquette business, look at books and DVDs, and choose an age group to work with on etiquette skills and manners. Make a difference doing something you are passionate about with tips from…

Proper courtship behavior not only involves being respectful, friendly and receptive to the other person, but it also pertains to having good hygiene and presenting yourself well. Understand the…

Making a good impression to customers is done by being friendly, always wearing a smile, being well-mannered and being open to helping them with any of their needs. Represent the company accurately by…

Expressing words of sympathy is best done by making it personal, saying the deceased person's name, making small physical contact and offering support. Be sincere and personal when offering words of…

Being a more attractive person boils down to having a positive and confident attitude, dressing well, having proper grooming and hygiene habits and being healthy. Become a more attractive person by…

There are so many changes in what is considered good etiquette in various situations that people aren't quite sure how to act. Proper etiquette is almost nonexistent for many children these days. If…

Americans are often caught off guard when traveling overseas to countries that have long embraced the bidet. At first glance, most of us wouldn't even know what we were looking at, let alone how to…

Knowing proper eating etiquette is the foundation to having a successful business lunch or dinner. The most important consideration are attire, arrival time, payment, conversation, ordering and table…

During an interview, you not only reveal information about your skill set, but you show the kind of employee you are. Your punctual arrival to the interview illustrates that you're a responsible…

Answering the phone at work: it is a small task, performed numerous times during the day. Although it is a small task, it is important to do it properly. The telephone is often the primary means of…