BRITISH ETIQUETTE: BUSINESS TRIPS

Going on a business trip with colleagues can often seem to re-draw the automatic lines of office etiquette - you're suddenly in a situation where you're sleeping with your workmates (hopefully, just by snoozing next to them on the aeroplane), breakfasting with them, sometimes even sunbathing with them around the pool of the hotel.

But don't be fooled by the enforced intimacy of the trip into believing that work hierarchies aren't still in place - just because you've seen your boss in all their flabby glory around the pool, draped over an umbrella-ed cocktail, shouldn't alter your behaviour or respect towards them.

The safest course is often to avoid any hint of a compromising situation, right from the beginning of the trip so travel to and from the trip separately from your colleagues if possible.

Once there, if you feel claustrophobic by the round-the-clock proximity to your workmates, playing the exercise card (especially swimming where it's hard to be sociable while ploughing up and down the pool) is a blameless time-out option. Above all, be tolerant of whatever situation you find yourself in - whether in a strip club in Frankfurt or a karaoke bar in Tokyo.

If you are on a solo business trip, don't be afraid to dine alone in the hotel restaurant - but always look purposeful, absorbed and unself-conscious about your solitude. A book is a crucial accessory. Don't be tempted to hide away and get room service - do you really want to sleep in the same room as you ate your dinner in?

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: OFFICE PARTIES

Behind the gloss of festive celebrations and the camaraderie of leaving do's is the reality that you are socialising with colleagues under the watchful eye of those higher up the food chain.

Be smart and social, but know when to draw the line. Circulate and socialise, but keep it upbeat and general. Ask about families, children and holidays. Don't gossip, spread rumours or confess your sins. Steer clear of mistletoe and dirty dancing, and keep goodnight kisses innocent.

Remember the basics: avoid shots, eat well, alternate drinks with water. Have fun and a few glasses, but don't be the casualty everyone is talking about (and sniggering at) the next day. If things start feeling rocky, go soft or call it a night.

The day after still counts too. Crawling in hungover and late (or worse, pulling a sickie) is unforgivably unprofessional.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: PROFESSIONAL SOCIALISING

Attempts to mix business with pleasure are always rather strained. The pressure is on to be a social sensation and you must be on your guard to ensure professional success…

Make sure you participate in after-work drinks and socials.

Keep a track of who's bought what, and know when it's you round.

It's tactical to socialise. Although it can be more fun to mix with the underlings, your boss should neither be besieged nor ignored.

Be confident and friendly. Be armed with a few social icebreakers (extra-curricular activities, families, relationships).

Just because you're off campus doesn't mean that you're out with friends: colleagues and bosses are still just that even in the pub at closing time.

Familiarity comes with time, so be aware of unspoken barriers. Avoid strong opinion or stark honesty; occasional frisson is interesting, but controversial views may offend.

Ask questions but don't interview - there is a fine line between interest and intrusion.

Never talk about money, illness or death.

Bluffers and serial liars always get their comeuppance; name-droppers and braggers bore everyone.

Alcohol might be a key ingredient but apply the usual rules of caution: eat well, spike drinks with water, know your limits.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: REDUNDANCY

Getting the boot is superlatively humiliating, but there is yet more dignity to lose by losing your temper. Settle for the philosophical advantage and serve out your notice with grace.

Don't react emotionally when you're told the news - you'll only regret it.

Don't attempt retaliation or revenge - it may come back to haunt you. Maintain your dignity to the bitter end.

If you're asked to leave immediately, do so. Don't worry about handing over to a colleague, it's not your problem. Just concentrate on making a quick exit from the building.

If you're asked to stay on for a few weeks, and you don't want to, just politely point out to your boss that - by definition - your services are no longer required, as your post is redundant.

Don't burn your bridges. You may hate and resent the boss that has dispensed with your services, but you may not have any argument with your colleagues. Make sure you have all their contact details before you leave - professional networking is never a waste of time.

Start looking for another job, getting out and doing interviews - don't let thoughts of your redundancy fester, as it will eat away at your confidence.

Always tell the truth (to future employers, employment agencies etc.) about your redundancy. In the current turbulent
economic climate, job loss is - unfortunately - an increasingly common event, and redundancy does not carry the stigma it used to.

When explaining your redundancy, try and put a positive gloss on it. Explain that your role was no longer required, but that losing your job has given you a chance to rethink your priorities, revise your career plan, explore new options etc. etc.

Keep busy, and don't let self-pity overwhelm you. Start a new exercise regime, spend some time with your kids, embark on the decorating that you've been putting off, do some voluntary work, clear out the boxes of junk in the attic.
Consider re-training, or going back into education.

Stay positive and flexible. Try and see your redundancy as an opportunity, a chance to try something new and explore new talents…

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: RESIGNATION

Resignations should be dealt with professionally and calmly. Burning bridges will wave goodbye to good references and paths will inevitably cross again.

Managing your resignation from a job must be done as carefully as you would handle any other business endeavour. Always book a private appointment with your boss to let them know that you are moving on. Don't just drop by their office to tell them such important news.

Be kind and positive when you quit: your manger is no longer your boss of the past but part of your network of the future. People tend to remember just their first and last impression, so be professional.

Emphasise the positive about your time in the company but add that it's time to move on, you've found an opportunity that 'fits you better'.

Offer to help during the transition; seeking out or training up your replacement.

Accompany any spoken intent with a formal letter of resignation stating when your last day will be; it looks more professional, and will clear up any uncertainties about notice periods.

Resist the urge to quit spectacularly, sweeping into your boss's office and telling them exactly what you think of them, is sometimes strong; but such sweet revenge soon sours.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: PAYRISES

As a general rule, there are very few workers who believe that they are over-paid. Asking for a pay rise is a tricky issue that requires tact and thought.

• Bide your time and keep an eye on your boss. Never ask during busy or stressful times, before a holiday, after a failed project or after any redundancies.

• Even with open-plan offices, always book a meeting. You can then be assured some face-to-face time and privacy.

• Think about your achievements and goals. Why do you deserve more money?

• Research the market and see what you could earn in a similar position at other companies, but never threaten to leave as it may backfire on you.

• Give persuasive reasoning as to why a raise is deserved and ensure you give the impression of have plenty of career satisfaction.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: DRESS

Being smart is strategic and professionalism loses impact without professional-looking clothing to match...

Make sure your dress fits in. If everyone else comes to work in jeans, then don't insist on wearing a suit.

If the office policy is to wear suits, then you must do so.

Check what colleagues wear and take the lead from everyone else to see if ties are de rigeur.

Think about the day ahead: meetings with clients may require some more thought than a quiet Friday.

Inappropriate dressing is very counterproductive. Girls who wear very short skirts, sheer fabrics or low-cut or cropped tops may find that their professionalism is called into question and they may not be taken seriously in the workplace.

If in doubt about the propriety of a certain garment, then remember that if you have to think about it, then it's probably not appropriate.


Policy can vary from company to company, but wherever you work, be assured that dress-down policy does not mean that 'anything goes'.

'Smart casual' is an often-used expression. This usually means smart denim; no sportswear; nothing that might be construed as beachwear, such as shorts.

If you feel more comfortable wearing a suit, then you could do so. But remember that refusing to join in and conform to a dress-down policy may be construed negatively by an employer or by fellow colleagues.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: JOB INTERVIEWS

Notorious for striking fear into the hearts of even the most self-confident, interviews are a genuine opportunity for candidate and prospective employer to weigh each other up.

• Immaculate presentation is essential, but gauge the formality of the company before donning your three-piece.
• Do some preparation, but remember that the interview is about you and not what you know about the organisation.
• Select a few relevant facts instead, and explain how your experience is appropriate for the requirements of the job.
• Don't be afraid to enthuse about your achievements, but be honest and never name-drop.
• Always ask questions; they provide a good opportunity for creating a more natural conversation and assessing the chemistry between you.
• Thank the interviewer warmly.
• Whatever the outcome, your response should be gracious. Never burn bridges.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: OFFICE ROMANCES

The camaraderie of the workplace can often overflow into romance, but you should think carefully before embarking on a relationship with a colleague.

Be guided by common sense and consider potential conflicts of interest. Check whether your employer has a policy on such matters. However professional you are, others might be quick to suggest that your judgment is clouded.

A liaison between boss and subordinate is particularly problematic and may require one of you to consider your options.

If it's early days and you're not sure whether your romance has staying power, be as discreet as possible and keep it between yourselves.

When you become an established couple, it is worth considering whether to spill the beans, with a view to controlling the spread of the news rather than relying on the office grapevine.

Never flaunt your romance in front of colleagues: displays of intimacy will undermine your professionalism and make others uncomfortable. You will gain the respect of others by showing restraint.

With careful handling and favourable circumstances, romance can blossom. However, if you find that mixing business with pleasure is affecting your work or your relationship adversely, assess your priorities and act decisively.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: HANDLING THE BOSS

Know your boundaries. Your boss is always your boss, no matter how well you get on or how much they value your opinion.

Always remain professional and remember that they are in a position of seniority to you. Don't offer advice unless asked.

Make it personal. Ask after the little ones and lesser halves, but keep within polite parameters.

Careful answering back could be taken as witty repartee and disagreeing as a brave challenge, but approach both with caution.

When a work crisis erupts, ride out the panic before sharing it with the boss. They expect solutions not problems, so turn it around.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: BEING A BOSS

The relationship between a boss and their staff is crucial to the success of working life. The workplace with a boss who knows their employees - from the tea boy to the top - is a successful, efficient and happy place to be.

Bad bosses rule through fear. Bullying, shouting and anger will quickly establish them as the office hate figure. Nothing turns staff off more quickly than the despot who steals all the glory.

Good bosses listen to their staff. They recognise strengths, understand procedures (no matter how big or small) and set reasonable goalposts (that they don't shift).

Encouragement, praise and rewards are delivered promptly when due - professional moral is frequently on a high.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: COLLEAGUES

Colleagues should be treated with respect. Make all your colleagues feel equally valued and, if you are in a position of seniority, don't single people out for either excessive criticism or praise.

Not all topics of conversation are suitable for office chitchat, especially in an open plan environment. Don't embarrass your colleagues by discussing inappropriate or personal topics and resist the temptation to gossip about other members of staff.

Try to keep your work life and private life separate as much as possible and this includes limiting your personal calls. However, it is important to open up a little and find some common ground with your colleagues.

Support your workmates and they will do the same for you in your hour of need. If you can see someone is particularly busy or stressed there may be some way you can help without affecting your own workload too much.

Always credit colleagues where it's deserved; never steal ideas or take credit for something that wasn't your idea.

Be willing to dedicate time and effort to your relationships with colleagues. This may mean giving up an evening for some after work drinks or going out for lunch together once in a while.

However petty, juvenile or ruthless your colleagues may seem, remind yourself that they are human beings with lives outside the office. Treat all colleagues with courtesy, irrespective of hierarchy.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: OFFICE JARGON

Yes, we all have 'issues' with jargon; let's all be proactive about the way we interface, give it some face-time, run it up the flagpole and kick the tires, then come up with a value-proposition that really shows we're tasked with thinking the unthinkable . . . and so on.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you bring to the table. Isn't it time we closed the circle
and concentrated on our core competencies? We need to build a soup to nuts solution, and that means rolling out a seamless paradigm shift. With a world-class approach, and the right synergy, we can take it to the next level. It's win-win. So why should you need to think outside the box?

The real problem with jargon is that it's anti-language and anti-communication. It's obfuscatory, rendering the simplest sentences opaque. Don't use jargon to disguise ignorance, wrong-foot colleagues and clients, or conceal ineptitude. Think carefully about what you are trying to say.

It is never a mistake to write, and speak, in plain, jargon-free English. You will be praised for the incisiveness of your thinking, and rewarded for your ability to communicate clearly.

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Try to write and speak in plain, jargon-free English.

Never try to disguise ignorance or wrong-foot colleagues and clients with obscure turns of phrase.

Clear communicators will always do better than those who rely on jargon to get ahead.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: PUNCTUALITY

Failing to be punctual is the height of bad manners and will make you look unprofessional. Conversely, being punctual always scores bonus points. You will come across as someone who is efficient, organised and reliable.

By being late for a meeting, you are effectively forcing your colleagues or clients to waste their time; hanging around waiting for someone to show up is deeply frustrating.

Make sure you arrive for work punctually, or even better a few minutes early. This will ensure that you are ready to start the day on time. Workers who are consistently late are usually noticed for the wrong reasons.

Given the vagaries of transport systems, the tendencies of meetings to over-run, the unpredictable emergencies of modern life, you cannot expect to be invariably punctual.
If you see that you're going to be late, pre-empt the fall-out and call ahead.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: OFFICE MANNERS

Here we have collated some ideas regarding how to help maintain a positive attitude in the work place. Do you do any of these things where you work?

1. Keep up with the tea round and know when it's your turn.

2. Ask before borrowing anything; make sure it stays borrowed and doesn't drift into possession.

3. Keep your desk tidy and don't spill over into someone else's space.

4. Ask before opening the window, tuning down the air conditioning etc.

5. Who's responsible for remembering birthdays? Often no one, so keep an eye on the calendar.

6. Acknowledge other big occasions in a colleague's life: weddings, pregnancy etc.

7. Limit personal calls and mobile talk. Turn your phone onto silent.

8. Equally, limit your time on Facebook and Twitter.

9. Share sweets and treats from time to time.

10. Don't eat stinky meals at your desk.

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BRITISH ETIQUETTE: OFFICE CONDUCT

• Conform to an office's working model. For example, take 20-minute lunches, leave domestic and emotional dramas at home and keep social phone chat to a minimum.

• Be acquainted with people from all rungs of the ladder, from the boss to the post room.

• Respect employee hierarchy, the elders and those with more company years than you.

• Remember good email etiquette and mobile phone manners.

• Always be discreet. Never discuss salary with your colleagues.

• Shouting down juniors is embarrassing for everybody. If necessary, calm criticism has far more impact.

• Respect confidentiality. Keep things to yourself when necessary and resist the temptation to pass on any sensitive information (professional or personal).

• Illicit material spreads like wildfire so talk with caution within the office walls.

• Beware of gossip. Gossips are usually presumed to be untrustworthy.

• Never ignore printer paper jams or low toners.

• Struggling in when sick will sometimes win you some points, but never if you're contagious.

• Look keen and committed - the odd evening sacrificed to the office will score you bonus points.

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