What is the most common professional etiquette error made in the work place today?
What a great question. Actually, two come to mind quickly. The first is one I often observe. It is the failure to stand and greet people. When you are seated (in a lobby, at your desk, etc) and someone comes in and/or introduces themselves to you, you should stand and greet them – ideally with a handshake. George Washington, our 1st President. knew this. In his “Rules of Civility”, which he wrote and adhered to throughout his professional life, he states “sit not when others stand”. This guideline holds true today as well. It sends a strong message that the person you are greeting is significant to you and that you are fully engaged with them. The second is the top concern I get from my corporate clients. It is the misuse, or overuse, of text messaging and cell phones. The basic guideline is that if you are with people (one-on-one, in a meeting, etc) they should be your singular focus. Text messaging and/or checking cell phone messages may suggest that the people you are with are of se
