Speaking
When speaking in the workplace it is proper to talk differently to different people.
When speaking to clients you want to be more professional. Avoid inside jokes and any informalities that could offend them. Private conversations with colleagues and supervisors can be taken with a casual and open atmosphere and therefore you can be more loose with the information you present. When speaking to colleagues it is appropriate to converse about workplace material and your personal relationship outside of work. You should talk to your supervisor more casually than client yet more professional than with your colleagues.
Listening:
Listening is an important part of client and colleague relationship. Be aware of your clients, as they do not have all of the knowledge you already possess. Take time and consideration when fielding questions since you want to make a personal connection and make the client feel that they are individually important to the company. Although the same listening etiquette applies with colleagues more assumptions can be made about what your colleagues know when fielding questions because they are part of the company.
Writing/Documentation
Writing is an important part of communication in the workplace. In general you should use standard spelling and proper format. You should refrain from using all caps and short hand while at the same time making sure that all the information is relevant. Business communication should never be used to spread jokes. Make sure you choose the best communication method for your message and write relevant subject lines. You should attempt to make your messages and short and concise as possible for your readers. If your reader is a supervisor always use proper titles and formalities. It is acceptable to write to your colleagues with less information and formality. Letters to clients should always be formal with no technical terms they would not understand.
Punctuality
It is important to show up to work on time. Sometimes, it is appropriate to stay at work late, especially if you have to make up for time you might have missed. When you are given an assignment, it is critical to complete the assignment in a timely manner. You must always respect your peers. If you make a mistake it is important that you admit to it. When working, always set a goal and attempt to limit any distractions. Keeping a positive attitude will not only boost your work morale but others as well.
Compensation/Promotion
It is important to keep your salary private. Avoid competition with other co-workers and attempt to always work as a team. If you believe you need a promotion or are competing for one with colleagues, act maturely. Speak to superiors in a proper way and continue to act normally with fellow promotion contenders. Always maintain a respectful attitude. Although you may not receive a raise or promotion do not quit or attempt to subvert the management. Supervisors should in return give bonuses to exceptional employees to encourage good work habits
Dress Etiquette
Proper attire in the workplace can vary tremendously depending on your career. However, no matter what the nature of your work environment is, the way you dress speaks volumes about who you are. You should adhere to any company dress codes first. If there are no set guidelines then the following applies. In almost all workplaces, your dress should exhibit some level of cleanliness and neatness. Your dress should reinforce proficiency n your field should not distract the work environment Sometimes it is necessary to conform to uniform guidelines for certain jobs such as police officers. In less formal environments such as the outdoors it may be more appropriate to dress informally.
Casual business attire is less formal than formal business attire, yet more formal than casual street attire. For women this would include khaki, corduroy, twill, or cotton pants, and sweaters or polo shirts. Acceptable casual workplace attire for men would generally include khaki or cotton pants, long-sleeved button-down shirts, polo shirts, or shirts with a collar, sweaters, and leather belts and shoes. However, this is usually specific to each workplace and company. The best approach is to ask what is appropriate business attire.
Professionalism
Professionalism is showing confidence and mastery in your area of expertise. Your manners and interactions reflect on your professionalism. Keeping good manners include showing up and working to the best of your ability, keeping a positive attitude, and being committed to a goal. Positive examples of interaction include speaking with confidence, presenting yourself in a respectable manner, and having respectful relationships with your colleagues inside and outside of work.
Category B Agents
