3 Business Etiquette Tips for Successful Leaders
When you think of the word “etiquette,” you likely associate it with behavior that’s accepted by society; what’s customary and expected. Relative to business, it has a lot to do with protocol — the daily efforts of leadership. Leaders are expected to act and present themselves in established ways. There’s an aspect of business etiquette that’s less often discussed but is no less important; the invisible components that make or break human connection. Their presence or absence can make the difference between success and defeat for a leader and have the potential to magnetize good things in both business and personal life.
Be Humble
“Humble” might seem like an old-fashioned word, one that comes from an earlier, gentler time. Humility has its power though — and for a leader, it can be an asset. It’s a valuable thing to regard oneself as part of a whole. It’s authoritative to be humble, to hold strength in reserve. It’s the opposite of arrogance and carries with it a quiet strength. Within the business setting, a humble leader can project authority and a high level of knowledge without being self-involved or narcissistic.
Be Honorable
Honor has to do with worthiness and a sense of dignity. It comes to the fore when there’s vulnerability and the possibility of failure. Communicating with grace is the choice to make. The best leaders have a sense of being honorable. Think back to a time when you lost publicly. Did you learn from the experience and deal with your emotions effectively? Or, did you project your feelings outward and lose your composure? Powerful leaders carry themselves with dignity and decency. It’s an attractive quality that will draw others to you.
Be Honest
Being honest is synonymous with integrity. At no level is there a conflict between what you think, feel, say, or do — or if there is, you recognize and address it. Sharing a personal or professional story in a public setting is challenging, yet when you do so honestly and with authenticity, others can connect sincerely with you. Living without pretense and being who you truly are is living with integrity. It’s a crucial aspect of business etiquette, and if you’re a leader, it’s important to open up to opportunities for being vulnerable and honest.
Effective leaders grow through continuous self-development. Learning and living the “soft,” less visible qualities and skills of business etiquette will help you professionally and personally.
