Excuse Me

The Survival Guide to Modern Business Etiquette

By Rosanne J. Thomas

In today’s workplace, good manners matter more than ever.

Blending different generations, genders, and cultures brings energy and fresh perspectives to the workplace. But the flip side is an environment ripe for confusion and social blunders. Mix in increasingly open-plan workplaces and constant connectivity, and the chance that we’ll unintentionally annoy or offend others increases exponentially.

Exactly what are the rules these days? Is it acceptable to text your boss at home? What is the polite way to ask a colleague to take a distracting conversation behind closed doors? What about the use of smartphones in meetings? Merging classic rules of behavior with new realities of modern business, Excuse Me spotlights dozens of puzzling situations, with suggestions for bridging divides. The book untangles the nuances of:

Meeting etiquette • Interview expectations • Proper office attire • Electronic manners • Privacy in tight spaces • Eye contact and nonverbal cues • Small talk • Business dining • Social media use • Working remotely and flexibly • and more

While the youngest employees might seem unruly, the oldest can seem rigid. Good manners create an atmosphere of respect, and smooth the way for everyone to succeed.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction

Chapter One. Respect: Practicing the Platinum Rule
Real Respect

Respect for Experience
Respect for Diversity

Chapter Two. Social Skills: Putting Your Best Foot Forward

Social Skills
The Hiring Process
The Interview Experience
The Generational Challenge

Chapter Three. Professional Presence: Getting It Right

The Right Brand
The Right Attitude
The Right Appearance
The Right Way to Travel

Chapter Four. Business Behavior: Combining Proven Strategies with 21st Century Expectations

The Glass Door
Everyday Manners
Business Meetings
The Team
The Cubicle Farm
The Open Office
The New Schedules
The Benefits Buffet
The New Realities

Chapter Five. Business Communication: Making the Connection

Nonverbal Cues
The Eyes Have It
The Good Conversationalist
The Power of Speech
The Good Listener

Chapter Six. Electronic Communication: Smart Rules for Smart Devices

Telephone Skills
Telephone Options
Email
Hardware
The Message

Chapter Seven. Twitter, Etc.: Acing Social Media

Your Digital Footprint
The Cyber Citizen
The Social Network
Social Sites

Chapter Eight. Business Dining: Observing the Formalities

The Business of Hospitality
Hosts and Guests
The Mechanics of a Meal
Dining Decorum

Chapter Nine. The Social Side of Business: Knowing the Basics for Every Situation

Entertaining Clients
Wine
Tipping
Activities and Events
Colleagues

Chapter Ten. New Frontiers: Future-Proofing Your Career

The Future Workplace
Gen Zs
Constant Connectivity
Digital Detox
The Eternal Truths

Conclusion