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About National Business Etiquette Week

“I remember going to my first networking event as a salesperson in 1993 and being completely overwhelmed by the idea. ‘What does networking mean?’ I asked. ‘How do I do it and is there a proper way to do it or not to do it?’

I rarely received answers to my questions so I learned like most people. Jumping in, making lots of mistakes and finally doing some research on proper etiquette for business. My fumbling in those first few years paid off later. I was quite successful in media sales and it was due to networking and following established protocols. What worked in business however, doesn’t always work in diplomacy.

My second lesson in business etiquette came through a friend of mine who is completing her PhD in International diplomacy.

In addition to the LEEP Calendar, I’ve taken a job in Saudi Arabia working at the King Abdulaziz World Center for Culture and Education in editorial. In the weeks leading up to my arrival later in the summer of 2014, I am discovering how easy it is to offend inadvertently. What exists as good manners, or even a propensity for simplifying concepts in the United States, doesn’t always translate overseas in different cultures.

‘Laura, you are going to offend them with that statement,’ my friend, an expert on Arab cultures scolded me.

It seems in my excitement and attempt to explain what I was going to be doing to Americans, I worded it in such a way that upon reflection, might not be seen that way.

‘But, I was just trying to explain it so people here will understand it,’ I protested.

‘That’s why you’re in marketing and I’m in diplomacy!’ she added. ‘You need to learn when to sell, and when to respect.’

Aye meu Deus! Looks like I can now offend in four languages. More learning to do. One can only be the ignorant American and new kid on the block for so long.

Most of us in our careers have at least one instance when we've flubbed protocol and caused problems through our ignorance of etiquette. For anyone in business, knowing the proper protocols in a situation can mean the difference between success and failure. Etiquette exists to help us navigate various social situations successfully, even if we’re unfamiliar with the culture whether national or corporate. It provides us with a roadmap of acceptability that is familiar and respectful.

Business Etiquette Week, Sponsored by the Protocol School of Washington, is a chance to review the social graces that allow us to succeed, build relationships and thrive. Whether it’s learning how to shake hands, what to speak about at networking events and parties or when to put the smart phone on mute, knowing business etiquette always helps your career and ingratiates you to those you meet and do business with.”

—Laura Dawn Lewis

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