Business Etiquette
Etiquette is not a term that most business people, or anyone for that matter, are comfortable with. It is an important word in today's business world.
Let's define what "Etiquette" is. Etiquette, business or social etiquette is the art of taking the unfamiliar and making it familiar to many. That's what the "rules" (they are really guidelines rather than rules) of etiquette are. Nothing more,nothing less.
For example, job descriptions are a form of Business Etiquette. Signs within the bank, such as the signs on each counter, are business etiquette. Easy to find stationary, directions of layout are a form of business etiquette.
Whenever a business is offering something -- an idea, service or product that is new or relatively unknown, to a potential customer, the "Rule of Business Etiquette" comes into play. And it is not just for a business to apply these guidelines. Anybody, when they are asking someone else to accept something new should also be using Rule #1 of Business Etiquette. E.g. change over from one technology platform to another should be informed in advance by way of a letter or through display boards at the premises.
Business Attire Do's & Don'ts
Looking the part promises both personal and financial success. Quality garments wear longer, fit better, and therefore, save money in the long run. Above all, if your clothing projects a professional image, others will respond to you in kind. Here are a few suggestions for maintaining the proper image: Women ➢ Do wear comfortable shoes to complement your outfit. ➢ Do wear natural looking makeup. ➢ Do wear appropriate jewelry (no bangles or dangly earrings). ➢ Do keep hair and nails clean and neat. ➢ Do Not overpower your appearance with heavy perfume! ➢ Do Not wear elaborate hairstyles. ➢ Do Not wear jeans or casual slacks. ➢ Do Not wear trendy fashions with built-in obsolescence.
Remember! Regardless of the attire, you should want to present yourself in the most conservative and professional manner.

Specifics for Women's Business Casual

Women: Should consider wearing saris in silks, crepes or cotton plain or with attractive prints, depending on the weather and the occasion. Larger pieces of jewelry are acceptable for family/ outside functions. Flats or small heels are appropriate.
Casual: Appropriate attire for women might be a salwar kurta and a chunni. The fabric choice would be again as for saris silk, crepe or cotton. In both instances ensuring that the colours are not flashy having lot of zariwork. ➢ Jewelry/Accessories: Wear a conservative watch. Jewelry and scarf styles come and go. Keep your choices simple and conservative. Avoid extremes of style and color.

➢ Cosmetics: Avoid extremes of nail length and polish color.

➢ Shoes: Shoes should be leather or micro-fiber. Regardless of style, avoid extremes. Make certain you can walk comfortably in your shoes.

➢ Purse/Bag: A tailored purse is best and one that hangs on your shoulder is often advantageous as it frees your hands for greetings (hand shakes or namaste).
Telephone Etiquette
For most of us, the telephone is a vital source of communication. The use of cell phones and “instant conversation” is commonplace in our life today. However, the way you conduct yourself on the phonies an important aspect of etiquette.
These tips will show you how paying attention to detail may make a big difference in others impressions of you. both personally and professionally.

Identify Yourself

➢ When calling someone, identify yourself after they've said hello?

Respect Others' Time

➢ When Placing a call, after identifying yourself, ask, "Do you have a Minute?" or "Is this a good time to reach your?" before explaining the reason for your call?

Ask Rather Than Just Place Someone on Hold

➢ After placing someone on hold and returning to the line, say, "Thanks for waiting" rather than "I'm back."

➢ When screening calls, do you ask, "Who's calling, please?" rather than "Who is this?"
When calling a professional office for any reason, always identify yourself and explain the reason for your call. Example: “Hello, this is Tom Cruise and I’m calling in response to the newspaper ad for an actor”.

Call Waiting

Call waiting is only as good as the person using it. Rule #1: Just because you have call waiting, it is up to you whether to use it…it is a judgment call. Your decision should be based on who you are speaking to, the intensity of the conversation, and your relationship to the person. If you find it necessary to place someone on hold -- Due to call waiting -- Always ask permission!