Etiquette between colleagues

4. Mind your P’s and Q’s

Think about the last time you did someone a major solid, and they accepted it as a matter of course without so much as a thank you. Their omission didn’t make you feel very good or motivated to help out again, did it?
Proper business etiquette demands using the words “please” and “thank you.” It doesn’t matter if you’re asking a staff member to call back a client or work late — phrase such demands as polite requests or expect colleagues to take umbrage.
In fact, if you manage a team, take this to heart: 80% of employees say they’d be willing to work harder for an appreciative boss, while 70% would be happier at their job if their boss thanked them more regularly.

5. Turn off your mobile in meetings

Even if you leave your phone on vibrate, any text message or incoming call will interrupt your colleagues’ train of thought if it buzzes during an important meeting. Learn to turn the cell off, lock it in a desk drawer or even leave it in your car if the temptation to tweet during conferences proves too much.
Sure, in large enough groups, you may be able to sneak in some texts under the desk the way you did back in high school. But then, you’re not exactly giving your full attention to the business at hand.
That said, using an app to take notes during a meeting is not a bad idea and doesn’t break any business etiquette rules — just make sure your phone is on silent.

6. Learn proper business lunch etiquette

If you have an important business lunch or dinner coming up, it is recommended that you snack on some almonds and dried fruit, or another healthy snack before heading out. You don’t want your empty stomach to steal the attention and make you think more about food than business.
Other dining etiquette rules for business include dressing appropriately for the dinner place and arrive on time. Then, when it’s time to order, take a pass on alcohol, or enjoy no more than one drink. You want to be sober when making promises and business agreements.
A good business etiquette also suggests that when ordering your food, wait until your host orders and follow their lead. This doesn’t mean ordering the exact same thing, but you may want to pass on the $40 filet if they order a $20 chicken entree.