3 Keys to Success for Leaders by Using Rules of Etiquette
Most people are aware of some of the obvious tenets of good leadership: communication, vision, fairness, and so on. However, business etiquette is one that may slip through the cracks, often unintentionally. This article takes a look at how to use good business etiquette to take your leadership to the next level.
Show Self-Control
One way to show leadership is through self-control. For instance, if a deal falls through, a leader who stomps around and uses negative language will repulse some employees and intimidate others. Worse, potential future leaders may learn this as acceptable behavior. It is best to show business etiquette by handling setbacks with enough self-control to show grace and humility. The same goes for when things are going well: Spread the praise and remain humble.
Show Honesty and Integrity
Honesty and integrity are others good ways to show both etiquette and leadership. Employees who feel misled will have a hard time trusting their higher-ups and an even harder time staying motivated. However, by being transparent and up front with employees, you can build a sense of trust. Another way to show integrity is by opening up about your own failures and how you overcame them.
Consider Specifics
It is also important for leaders to consider more specific etiquette angles. For example, if your company shows a pattern of unfocused meetings, employees will likely appreciate it if the company takes steps to make meetings more effective. That shows respect for their time.
Leaders should also pay attention to cultural norms. For instance, according to Entrepreneur.com, people in some areas of the United States may be more open to small talk at the start of interactions than others. And if you are working with people from another culture or country, brush up on the norms they are used to in order to make interactions go more smoothly.
For more tips on business topics, take a look at the rest of the content on Approved Business Lending’s blog.
