Edition 303 – Etiquette
It’s interesting being back in front of people these last couple of months after our extended lockdown. As we’ve re-engaged in a physical sense, I’ve found it eye-opening to observe not only some old patterns re-emerge, but notice behaviours inside of family businesses that, perhaps, the owners and managers are unaware of.
Here’s some of my observations:
- Late arrival at meetings.
- Taking phone calls in meetings.
- Allowing interruptions that are not urgent or life threatening.
- A lack of “please” and “thank-you” being aired.
- A language of familiarity in terms of directives being issued to subordinates which appears to ignore basic courtesies.
- Disrespectful language.
- Promises not delivered.
Perhaps everyone is worn out after two years of COVID and just need a good holiday.
Alternately, people might be playing catch-up for lost time during the extended lockdowns and, as such, have forgotten certain elements of social etiquette.
Whilst each of those may be a reason, I don’t believe they are an excuse.
In my opinion, these behaviours are disrespectful, inefficient or time consuming – and sometimes, all three. If COVID has taught us anything, wouldn’t it be that how we used to do things needs to change?
To that end, give this some thought:
- How are you conversing with your staff?
- How are you conversing with your customers?
- What do your actions exhibit that conflict with your words?
- What are the bad habits inside your business that you don’t see – but could offend others?
- What are the small things you could be doing (or saying) that will create a significant impact on the recipient?
I’d suggest a little focus in these areas may well:
- Improve employee performance.
- Increase employee retention.
- Improve business financial and operating performance.
- Lead to a more open dialogue between employees and management.
- An improved culture inside the organisation.
This Week’s Tip
“I’d rate communication inside most businesses as poor or ordinary.
What would you need to do to lift the bar inside yours?”