Etiquette

Polite and respectful behavior is expected in any professional setting. That said, every culture and country has its own set of expectations, and even regional considerations with the U.S. No matter where you live, etiquette matters to everyone and if you interact professionally, respectfully, and appropriately with all of your colleagues, you will succeed.

Make sure your email address and phone voice mail message are professional and appropriate.

Phone Etiquette

• Make sure your voicemail is set up and has a professional outgoing message.
• Speak slowly and clearly.
• When asking for someone, use their full name and department.
• When leaving a message, include your name, phone number, reason for calling, and repeat your phone number at the end of the message.
• If you are transferred, thank the answerer for his/her assistance.

Cell Phone Use

• When interacting with others in a meeting, class, meal, or conversation, turn your phone to silent or vibrate. Allow non-emergency calls to go to voicemail. Do not answer your phone while interacting with other people.
• In a public setting, do not disrupt others with your phone conversation. Do not discuss your company business, projects, deals, or share comments about your colleagues while in public settings such as restaurants, elevators, or public transportation. 
• Do not text while in meetings, class, or other professional interactions.     

Email Etiquette

Email is an accepted and expected mode of communication in the work world today. Keep in mind the ease of sending such messages and once it leaves your inbox you no longer control it. Don't write an email that you would not want to be seen by others than the intended recipient. Make sure you are using an email address that is professional.

Email is professional communication and should follow the same guidelines as other written material.

• Use proper spelling, grammar, and punctuation. No text shorthand, emoticons, or other shortcuts.
• Answer emails in a timely fashion.
• Do not attach unnecessary files.
• Do not overuse high priority options.
• Do not use email to discuss confidential information.
• Avoid writing in all caps.
• Read the email for errors and content before you hit send.
• Be careful about formatting that may not translate properly through email.
• Do not forward chain letters or hoaxes.
• Do not copy a message or attachment without permission.
• Use cc: field and reply all sparingly and appropriately.