Business Etiquette for Careers

Business etiquette is the propriety of conduct and a set of rules. It is an international protocol that facilitates and promotes communication between the diplomatic and international relations and in building a successful interaction between different cultures of the applied environment. Business etiquette is as language skills, which helps you to communicate with each other.Social business etiquette includes greeting and meeting (presentation), a set of rules of behavior at a party (hospitality, visiting) and table etiquette, negotiation, presentation of gifts, greetings, condolences, get-label correspondence and traditions.

These rules can vary slightly, depending on the country and the environment, but its account is taken of all as well the label applied in correspondence with e-mail or mobile phone.The label is the interface between behavior and a set of rules in society because they are assumed to follow. They show interest and respect for others. In today's business etiquette is not written in law, but rather recommendations for successful business development and a tool that helps avoid misunderstandings. It is respect, which we'll show each other, it is very important in business. We can not make a successful business without dignity. It is therefore important to know the label, in particular, if we have an international business.

Chinese business partner certainly will feel offended if you use his business card to make a note of the meeting. Indian colleague with incomprehension and resentment will treat the fact, if you reject his invitation to go to dinner. In every culture, there are rules at their own labels - different continents and countries, it could be different, but these traditions are equally important in all countries. By showing respect for foreign colleagues and their culture, it is important to recognize and assess the business norms of behavior differences.Business etiquette has to be followed regardless of the season, the economic situation and other circumstances. During the holidays, become relevant standards to be met at parties and other events - they can be related to the choice of adequate clothing, gifts and greetings.

How Much Do You Know Business Etiquette in India

It is vitally important therefore that etiquette in business dealings in India are closely observed before embarking on investment in that part of the world.India has expanding and interesting business opportunities and the three main business areas are Mumbai, Calcutta and Delhi. Business in Calcutta is often conducted at a slow pace and the perceived etiquette tends to be rather old fashioned. The Indian people in Calcutta like to take their time, to converse moving from business to politics or culture.

The people in this part of India have an old-style clubhouse mentality and a very conservative etiquette which must be observed, therefore, patience is required.Mumbai is the centre of financial business and this is a part of India more frenetic, aggressive business practice akin to that of their western counterparts the only business etiquette being one of the 'faster the better'.Delhi lies in northwest India and is the political heart of India. This is where the foreign diplomats integrate with the Indian politicians. This is the part of India where affluence is worn as a badge; nice clothes, nice car, good restaurants good business.

The etiquette in India is very much influenced by the various religious practices of the Indian people and it is essential the check this out before setting off to undertake business in any part of India. The main religions followed in India are Sikh, Hindu, Muslim and Buddhism. The Sikh community in India is mainly found in Delhi. The Sikh people of India tend to be aggressive business partners, whereas the Muslim people of India tend to be more genteel in their business dealings. It is crucial to observe before visiting India to undertake business the religious calendar involving festivals, fasting as during Ramadan for instance and, importantly, it is not etiquette to criticise or enter into discussion anything pertaining to particular religions.

Australia and New Zealand Business Etiquette

　　Handshakes
　　Australian and New Zealand handshakes are firm and quick. Don't grasp the other person's hand with both of yours and don't keep shaking. Women typically don't shake hands with one another in Australia, but typically do in New Zealand. And in both countries is typical that women extend their hand to men.

　　Names and Titles
　　Australians and New Zealanders dislike pretense. Although you should call someone by their last name when you first meet them, this will not last long-especially in Australia, as you will probably soon be invited to call your host by his or her first name. New Zealanders are more reserved when you first meet them, but they, too, will quickly warm to you. Announcing your title when you meet is offensive because it's perceived as showing off.
　　Business Attire
　　Typical business attire is so similar to American business attire as to not require separate discussion.
　　Dining and Entertaining
　　Lunch can be a business affair, but both the near-obligatory call in at the pub and evening dinners are social events. Arrive on time in both Australia and New Zealand.
　　Gifts
　　Bringing a bottle of Australian wine, a box of chocolates, or some other small item to your host's evening dinner party is expected.
　　Social Taboos
　　Being overly demonstrative with another man is a taboo for men in Australia and new Zealand. And trying your hand at "G'day, mate" is more likely to result in offense than anything else.

business etiquette to new hires

Yet, before any new hire moves into their first cubicle or corner office, it is imperative that they know the unique set of business-etiquette guidelines that will ease their transition into a new company and put them on the path to success.In the first ninety days on the job, a new hire must delve deep into the company culture and recognize their rank and status within the organizational hierarchy without committing major business blunders. This is the time when a new team member will be under great scrutiny, so use it to your advantage by defining your reputation as a competent, business-etiquette savvy, hard-working, and easy-going individual.
This examination can, and probably will feel like you're in a pressure cooker, but there are guidelines that any new hire can follow to earn the respect and solidarity of their co-workers. Strive for balance: show off your hard skills but avoid outsmarting your boss. If you develop a friendly relationship with colleagues, be sure your personal life does not intrude. Convey written messages in the most straightforward fashion but use humor appropriately -- jokes are a minefield better left to professional comedians.
Balance is important in the office but even more so outside of it. Business dinners, offsite meetings, tradeshows, and other trips call for their own set of workplace rules of new-hire business etiquette. The two keywords are appropriate and discreet. At a client dinner, for instance, this translates into asking the client or sommelier for a wine recommendation rather than selecting the beverage without any input.Chances are, as the above example suggests, alcohol may be served. While one might be tempted to drink as much as possible on the company dime, new hires (especially) cannot afford a slip of the tongue, or to have their work suffer the following day.
Therefore, moderation is key.Moderation should not be practiced, however, when deferring to formality. New hires should know that business etiquette means addressing and referring to people by their title, which shows both professionalism and compliance. A new hire must also be aware that asking questions is encouraged, but must be done in a way that frames the inquiry with respect. Business etiquette is not only about pleasing your new colleagues, but also about helping you establish a platform from which to make your job a positive and rewarding experience.While getting your foot in the door at a new company is the first step, knowing the rules of business etiquette goes a long way in helping ensure that the doorwill always remain open.

Etiquette On Business E-mails

Businesses are being swamped with email to such an extent that productivity is being affected.A lot can be done to avoid propagating email stress and corporate spam by observing the following points:
- avoid sending an email unless it is absolutely necessary

- avoid sending copies or forwarding emails to persons not directly involved in the subject matter
- if you must forward an email, delete the parts that are irrelevant to the recipient
- think carefully before you decide to click "reply to all"
- do not request a delivery receipt or that the email has been read unless such information is vital
- if you reply just to say "thanks" you are contributing to corporate spam. It's courteous, but is it necessary?
- use the Subject field to concisely and accurately describe the contents
- avoid ambiguity to stop a further exchange of emails seeking clarification
- keep the contents clear and to the point
- does your email really require a reply? If not just end with NRN (no reply necessary)

About Business Etiquette in Asia

In this case of Asia, more than any other region, its best to consult country-specific books.

Handshakes
Americans routinely mangle Asian handshakes. It's quite simple, actually when you are in China, Hong Kong , Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, or South Korea, you can shake hands. But avoid direct eye contact during the handshake, and don't shake very hard or very long. your host may bow to you. The more senior you are, the deeper the bow. You may also bow. The bow is a sign of mutual respect.
The Philippines is the exception here. Don't bow, but do make direct eye contact.
Business cards
The exchange of business cards must be made properly. Business cards should be printed in English on one side and in your host's language on the other. In China, the card should be printed in black or gold ink. you should always present only pristine cards.
When you present your card, you do so with both hands, native language side up and readable to your host. When you receive a card in return, study it, thank the person, and place the card gently in your jacket pocket.
Names and Titles
Last names and professional titles are used across Asia. Don't be afraid to say that you are a professional if you are one.
Meetings
Meetings begin more or less on time in Japan, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Thailand, and in the Chinese population of Indonesia. In Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, meetings are less likely to start punctually.
In china most of your junior Chinese business associates will arrive early. You do not have to start the meeting ahead of time. They are there in case you need anything.
Business Attire
Your default business wardrobe is conservative business dress, with suits, ties, and tie-up shoes for men, and conservative suits and dresses for women. Because of their warmer climates, some leniency in dress is to be found in Vietnam, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, and Hong Kong. But even in these countries, be conservative and avoid flashiness of any kind.
Dining and Entertaining
You'll find that Asians love to entertain in bars and restaurants and that the food is exquisitely flavored, prepared, and presented.
In China and Hong Kong, expect a banquet - long meal with innumerable courses served one after the other. Arrive on time and get ready to eat. Take something from every serving dish, even if it's only a little amount. But never clean your plate - symbolically, the magnificence of the meal means that you can't finish it.
In Japan, you will be hosted to an evening of eating and drinking. Let your host order and enjoy something from each platter. Don't refuse to eat sushi or sashimi - (both of which involve raw fish) - you'll insult your host. Drink your beer or sake slowly - you host will fill your cup every time its empty.
Koreans entertain both at home and at restaurants. Arrive on time if you're going to a private home, and bring a small gift. If you're invited out to a night on the Town, be appropriately grateful, for your host is probably planning to spend a lot of money.
The Filipinos style of entertaining is to invite you to a private home, where you and a gaggle of your host's friends will enjoy a lavish meal.

7 Business Etiquette Tips for Reflection and Action

We all know it's not nice to be rude or impolite, but so many of today's business practices allow us to excuse ourselves from general good manners in the name of technology, business status quo, or saving time. I say Phooey. People are still people, and all of us respond best to those who are considerate towards us. We would all rather work with and around decent people, and we all prefer to do business with those who are aware of their effects on others. Manners can make us winners in the business world.

1. Treat your customers like gold. Add to this your vendors and sales reps, too. Oh, and add your co-workers and employees to that mix! Being kind, responsive, and going the extra mile is like inviting someone into your home and making them feel welcome. It is the best business advice you will ever receive.

2. Allow co-workers to get credit. Don't be a hog, and worse, don't take credit if it is not due to you, even if you think no one will ever find out. YOU know, and that should be enough! Be willing to share the glory or give it all away to those who really deserve it.

3. Respect a customer's right to be angry. If someone is unhappy, you must find out why, and take their concern seriously. This is not about you. First, get calm by showing kindness, then listen wholeheartedly. Next, acknowledge their concerns, and finally work together with them to find solutions. NEVER scold a customer, never tell them no one else has ever had that complaint, and never make them feel put down in any way shape or form. Instead, THANK them for taking their valuable time to communicate with you. You will likely win their future business, and learn important ways to improve your business as well.

4. Don't fudge on donations! Don't collect donation money from your customers (via a jar on the counter or the famous phrase at checkout, "Would you like to donate a dollar to...) and then turn the money into the charity using your businesses name as the source of the giving. YOU or your business did not do the giving, the customers did, and they should get credit for that. I personally think asking customers for a donation is a fine line, since that is not why they came to your business, and it makes people feel pressured. I also think it can border on using others to make ourselves look good. If you do collect for charity from your business, be sure to give your shoppers the credit, since after all, the money did come out of their pocket books, not yours.

5. Keep a clean mouth (and keyboard). Look, I get it! This is the new era and the new economy. But when did decency get unplugged? We can still be a modern society without becoming uncivilized and thoughtless. I cannot tell you how many people cuss openly and often on Facebook, in emails, and at important business meetings, even seminars. It seems to be almost a fad, where "cool business peeps" use thick profanity to "prove" they are "being themselves" and not phony. I heard Tony Robbins use a filthy cuss word at a huge event, and I was shocked, and very disappointed. Worse than that though, the recording of that event was used online for marketing purposes. In my opinion it made Tony look really slimy. Now, I am by no means a Mother Theresa, but being professional still means using a professional manner and good judgment, which will always be tied to trust.

6. When calling others, be considerate of their time. When you phone a co-worker, business colleague, or customer, don't just start rambling about why you called. Always first ask, "Is this a good time for you"? It may or not be, but you will avoid frustrating others by asking this simple question. They will respect you more for this one small consideration.

7. Stop obsessing over your cell phone. If you are in a meeting, turn your cell phone off. If you are visiting with a customer, turn your cell phone off. If you are having lunch with a colleague or business contact (or your mother for that matter), turn your cell phone off. What has happened to us is almost comical, but in reality it is pretty sad. We are leaping so much towards the next moment that we miss the golden opportunity that is right before us- the time we have to meaningfully connect with those we are with! If you have taken the time to be with another, be there totally, and let them know they are the most important person to you at that moment.

Business Etiquette For Business Cards

There are certain countries that have a set norm about receiving and giving business cards however, the general etiquettes of business card exchange that is followed all over the world can be summarized in the following points.

a)Always get your business cards printed in very high quality paper and get the designs done by professionals. A business card is not just a piece of paper carrying your contact information but it's a branding tool for your company.

b)Business cards an internationally accepted means of providing the necessary personal details to your business acquaintance. When you are going for a business meeting or a social gathering make sure you have good number of business cards with you.

c)Try to exchange your business cards either at the beginning or at the end of the meeting.

d)Whenever you receive a business card, make it a habit to study the business card and comment on it. If you have any doubts always clarify the doubt before putting it away. This shows that you are paying proper importance to the person who hands over the card to you.

e)If you are traveling to some foreign country where English is not the primary business language, it is advisable that you get the backside of your business card printed in the local language. It is also expected, that while handing over the business card to some one you keep the side with the foreign language version on top.

f)Do not try to thrust your business card at anyone with whom you are hardly acquainted. Business cards are exchanged only after both the parties express their interest to be in contact with each other.

g)It is good to add a tag line or mention the USP of your business on your business card, but make sure that in the process, you do not turn it to a mini billboard.

Other than this general etiquettes of business card exchange, there are certain etiquettes that are specific to certain countries. Two of the most remarkable instances are found in China and Japan.

In China, it is the general etiquette to hold the business card in both hands while offering it to somebody and you should never write on someone's card unless you are told to do so. It is customary in China, to mention your title in the business card and it is preferred if you have one side of the business card printed in Chinese with golden fonts as gold is considered to be an auspicious color.

In Japan, the accepted rules of business card exchange are somewhat opposite to China. Here business cards are always received in two hands but can be offered in one hand. Business cards are treated with the same respect as that of the actual person. Business cards should mention the title of the person as much emphasis is given to status and hierarchy in Japan.

Business Etiquette in India

India is a country composed of a multitude of religious cultures coexisting side by side. The dominant religion is Hinduism, but significant numbers of Muslims, Buddhists, Sikhs, Jains, Jews, and Christians also live in India. Onto this religious diversity is grafted a layer of British formality and good manners resulting across the country in a population that is as polite as it is distinctive. you can expect a great deal of discussion the pleasure most Indians take in bargaining and you have the markings for some long business meetings.

Meeting and Greeting

In general, Indians are formal upon first meeting. Elders are respected and differed to many situations, business ones included. Caste rankings still play a role with a wide variety of social and business interactions, although they're not as pervasive as they previously were. You may see an Indian bow slightly to another - that is either a show of respect for age or a show of respect for age or a show of respect for someone higher in rank.
Names and Titles
Use last names upon meeting someone for the first time and mention any higher academic or other titles.

Business Attire
India is hot and the clothing is casual. Suits are rarely seen, although a light jacket with a shirt and pants is standard outfit for businessmen. Women wear slacks and a jacket or long dresses.

Dining and Entertaining
Business lunches are common in India, and it's perfectly appropriate to discuss business at lunch. Dinners at Indian homes are bounteous and delicious. It's rude to show up on time but you shouldn't be more than half an hour late either. When you eat, do so without using your left hand. As in Muslim countries the left hand is symbolically unclean. And don't thank your host at the end of the meal.

Don't make these mistakes:
1. Putting your hands on your hips is rude.
2. Touching someone with your foot is rude, as is pointing with your foot.
Business CardsBusiness cards are presented without a great deal of ceremony. But present your card with your right hand.

Business Etiquette in Africa

　

The northern countries countries bordering the Mediterranean are Islamic, and you can expect that the kind of lavish generosity, indirect business discussions, expansive sense of time, and second class citizen status for women found in the Arabic countries is found here too.Soft handshakes are common across Africa. In countries with large populations, such as Kenya and South Africa, you can expect European style handshakes from the white people you'll meet. In South Africa, handshakes between whites and whites, in the one hand, and blacks and whites on the other differ. Although white people shake the hand of another white person in much the same way as in northern Europe, whites and blacks shake hands with an additional flourish. 

After shaking the full hand, they grasp thumbs and then return to a full handshake.In the Muslim countries of northern Africa, you may find men holding handshakes so long that they become a handhold. Do not be offended. This is a common practice.You can never go wrong by using last names and titles when you first meet. Academic titles add a great deal of luster.Conservative is the keyword. In particular hot countries, some easing up on the dark business suit is permitted. And, of course, your host will not be bound to Western dress. He may show up in dressy traditional attire.Africans are justly famous for the pleasure they take in eating and entertaining and for their generosity.


If you are invited to someone's home almost anywhere in Africa, be prepared - your host will go all out to impress you. In many countries, you will find no utensils of any kind and will be expected to eat with your hands. Remember, in Muslim countries, not to eat with your left hands. Watch your hosts in other countries for similar taboos. When in doubt, do as your host does.In Jewish homes, a gift of flowers to the host is preferred. but gifts to the host are frowned on in Muslim homes. and under no circumstances, should you give a Muslim a gift of alcohol, a picture of anyone or of any animal or anything made from pigs.In most of the Middle East, it's bad manners for an outsider to discuss politics or religion. Showing the soles of your shoes or feet is rude in Turkey and in the Arabic countries, as is openly disagreeing with someone. And in Turkey, fist names are only used when you know the person very well.

Business Etiquette in the Middle East

The dominant religions are Judaism in Israel and Islam in Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and the Arab countries. Some Christians are found in Turkey and Israel.Since religion is so much a part of daily life in most Muslim countries, you can expect certain differences, some mundane, some extraordinary. For example, neither alcohol nor pork is consumed, the work week in most Muslims countries runs from Saturday to Wednesday or Thursday morning, and prayers are said five times a day, during which time business stops. Period. But the most extraordinary difference is the separation of man and women in the vast majority of Muslim countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman being exceptions). In Arabic countries in particular, women are rarely seen, and when they are they're heavily veiled.For Muslims Sabbath is Sunday; for Jews, Sabbath is Saturday; for Muslims, Sabbath is Friday.
Handshakes
Among Jews handshakes are standard greetings. Among Arabs hugs and kisses are standard. If you're not Arab, you may get a handshake, but it's less like a handshake than it is a handhold, usually with both hands. Don't get nervous and don't move away. And remember that Arab men often hold hands as a gesture of friendship.
Names and Titles
Use full names and all appropriate titles upon meeting.
Business Cards
Expect to exchange business cards with everyone. In Arab countries, it's polite and expected that your business card will be in English in one side and Arabic on the other and Arabic on the other. Present your card Arabic up. In Israel, engraved business cards are preferred to printed ones.
Meetings

Meetings can be long, chaotic and even pointless to an American sensibility. In Turkey and Israel, punctuality is prized, and meetings typically start on time. But "meeting time" is a rather loose term in Saudi Arabia, where you may wait an hour or more before your host appears.

When he (or in Israel, sometimes, she) arrives, you will begin with banter and conversation centered not on business but in many other topics. Once you get down to business, you may be overwhelmed by the amount of argument and haggling. Whether Jew or Muslim, people in the Middle East love to talk, discuss, wrangle, and argue.
And if no decision is made on the spot, do not be disturbed. The decision will come, sometimes weeks, sometimes months later.
The following are some general rules for meetings:
1. Never say no directly; it causes shame. Find other ways to express disagreement.
2. Age is important in Turkey. Defer to the oldest person.
Business Attire
In Israel, business casual is acceptable in a wide range of businesses. In Turkey and the Arabic Countries, go conservative with dark suits and subdued ties. Business women may have a hard time in the Middle East, in Saudi Arabia in particular. If you're a woman brave enough to risk being ignored or shunned, remember that your knees and elbows must be covered at all times and that a high collar is required.
Dining and Entertaining
Across the Middle East, hospitality is a means of demonstrating generosity, wealth, and power. As a result, Jewish and Arab hospitality sometimes appear extravagant to Americans. Accept the inevitable, and enjoy the prodigious feast to which you will be hosted.
In Muslim Countries:
Dining is taken seriously in most of Europe as an expression of generosity. In some countries, such as Italy and Greece, this generosity can reach stupefying levels; it can be virtually impossible to pick up a check in Italy and virtually impossible not to overeat or overdrink in Greece. But it's rude to refuse dinner invitations or any of the sumptuous items proffered to you at a dinner.

Business Etiquette in China

　　Greetings
　　Address a person using his or her family name only, such as Mr. Chen or Ms. Hsu. The Chinese family name comes first and is usually one syllable. A one or a two-syllable given name follows a family name. For example, in the case of Teng Peinian, Teng is the family name and Peinian is the given name. In some instances, Westernized Chinese might reverse their names when visiting and sending correspondence abroad. Therefore, it is always a good idea to ask a native speaker which name is the family name.
　　For business purposes, it is traditionally acceptable to call a Chinese person by the surname, together with a title, such as "Director Wang" or "Chairman Li." Avoid using someone's given name unless you have known him or her for a long period of time. Formality is a sign of respect, and it is advisable to clarify how you will address someone very early in a relationship, generally during your first meeting.
　　
　　Do not try to become too friendly too soon, and do not insist that your Chinese counterparts address you by your given name. The Western pattern of quick informality should be resisted.
　　The Chinese way of greeting is a nod or slight bow. However, when interacting with Westerners, Chinese usually shake hands. Bear in mind that a soft handshake and a lack of eye contact do not necessarily indicate timidity. It only implies that the person is not accustomed to the firm handshakes commonly used in the West.
　　Business Meetings
　　In China, it is assumed that the first person that enters the room is the head of the group. Westerners should observe this convention so as not to confuse the Chinese. Important guests are usually escorted to their seats. If the meeting room has a large central table, the principal guest is likely to be seated directly opposite the principal host.
　　When exchanging business cards, hold out your card using both hands with the writing facing the recipient. Cards should always be exchanged individually (one-on-one). Never toss or "deal" your business card across the table, as this is considered extremely rude. Receive a business card with both hands and scan it immediately for vital information. Then lay the card in front of you on the table. It is demeaning to put someone's card directly into your pocket without looking at it first.
　　Meetings begin with small talk. Resist the temptation to get down to business right away. Also, avoid telling Western-style jokes, because jokes sometimes do not translate across cultures and can cause confusion or hurt feelings.
　　
　　Social Events
　　At a formal banquet, be prepared to give a short, friendly speech in response to the host's speech.
　　When inviting Taiwanese to a party, serve a "real" meal rather than snacks and drinks.
　　When invited for dinner, it is polite to sample every dish served. Your host may serve some food for you, and it is nice to reciprocate if you feel comfortable doing so.
　　Always leave something on your plate at the end of the meal or your host might think that you are still hungry.
　　Gift Giving
　　
　　If is appropriate to bring a gift, particularly something representative of your town or region, to a business meeting or social event. Gifts indicate that you are interested in building a relationship. A gift should always be wrapped, but avoid plain black or white paper because these are the colors of mourning. Present the gift with both hands as a sign of courtesy and always mention that this is only a small token of appreciation. Do not expect your gift to be opened in your presence. This indicates that it is the thought that counts more than the material value.
　　Never give a clock, handkerchief, umbrella or white flowers, specifically chrysanthemums, as a gift, as all of these signify tears and/or death. Never give sharp objects such as knives or scissors as they would signify the cutting of a relationship. Lucky numbers are 6 and 8 (especially in a series, such as 66 or 888). An unlucky number is 4.

Business Letters and Memoranda

When composing business letters Keep the following in mind:
1. Use high-quality paper with at least 25% cotton rag content.
2. Never send a letter written in anger unless you've waited 24 hours to review it.
3. Plan your correspondence before writing it-know what you want to say and in what order you want to say it.
4. Compose your correspondence after planning it - use direct, active language, vary your sentence structure, adopt a moderate, friendly, tone, and give clear directions.
5. Revise the letter after it has been written to take account of any new information.
6. Edit the letter for spelling, grammar, style, tone, and content.

　　7. Edit again.

Memos are written communications within companies or within units within companies. Memos typically make announcements, discuss procedures, report on company activities, and disseminate employee information. They're informal and public. If you have something confidential to communicate, don't do it in a memo.
All memos are structured similarly. They have:
1. An addressee - flush left, in capital letters, near the top of the page
2. The sender - flush left, in caps, immediately below the addressee
3. Date - Flush Left, in caps, immediately below the sender
4. Subject - Flush left, in caps, immediately below the date

Finding The Appropriate Business Clothing

The solution? KISS-Keep It Simple and Sophisticated.

　　You want your confidence to come from your professionals abilities, but still your clothes are important. If you dress with your next position in mind you're more likely to get there.
Memorize these colors:
Navy
Charcoal Gray
Black
Khaki
White
These are the staple colors of every business wardrobe.
Here are some guidelines for both men and women to keep in mind:
In the suit world start with the basics: A navy blue wool suit and a charcoal wool suit, white shirts, black shoes, black belt, and black leather briefcase/notebook computer case.
in the casual world, start with the basics: Khaki pants or skirts, white shirts, black or brown shoes and belt, and a black or brown leather and ballistic nylon briefcase/notebook computer case.
Add your own touches in keeping with your company's style.

Interviewing Tips

Pointers to get you started on a successful interview:

　　1. Relax!: It seems impossible but just concentrate on breathing deeply. The idea is to keep oxygen flowing to your brain so that you can remember all the reasons why you deserve this job. Deep breathing also prevents you from losing consciousness.
A display of nervousness may thwart your ability to negotiate the best deal and may even harm your chances of getting the job.
2. Be on time: Leave a few minutes for construction delays, traffic, and a pit stop. If your have never been to this building get specific directions, including where to park, which entrance to use and where to go once you get inside. Write the information down and drive over a day or two in advance so that you getting lost would not be a delay.
3. Get the correct pronunciation of your interviewer's name: Get the information when you ask for directions and if the name is hard to pronounce practice on it.
4. Know your interviewer's title and use it until you are asked to do otherwise: Do not call your interviewer by their first name until you've been informed by your host that you can drop the titles and surnames.
5. Bring a folder with a few clean copies of your résumé, some paper to write on, a good fountain pen with quick drying ink and a tissue or two: A leather portfolio adds a nice touch but avoid bringing too much luggage.
6. Be polite to the receptionist, security guard, or whomever else may be helping you, and be patient while waiting on your interviewer: It is important to make a good impression with the people that might end up being your co-workers.
On the other hand, you don't want to be overly friendly. Take your cue from the employee, if he strikes up a conversation, go with it. But if he seems busy, don't bother him.
7. Don't chew gum, smoke, eat, or drink on company premises unless refreshments are offered: Avoid taking even a bottle of water.
-During the Interview-
1. Start with a smile and firm handshake-obviously!
2. Stand up when your interviewer approaches.
3. Greet him by name, look him in the eye, and thank him for this opportunity.
4. Give the interview your full attention: Minimize possible distractions by turning off pagers, cell phones, watches, and other beeping gadgets.
5. Be as specific as possible in answering the interviewer's questions: It is always better to get get the possible questions in advance (with the help of available resources) in order to get prepared for the interview. Try to use your own experiences whenever possible and always give yourself time to think before you speak.
6. Add other comments and ask questions at the end of the interview: Avoid asking questions that can easily be answered through a Web site or annual report-if you ask them the interviewer may conclude that you didn't take the time to research the company.

Telephone Manners

Now for some basic telephone manners:
* First of all, prepare for the phone call before you make it.
* Have a good idea of what you are going to talk about.
* Make notes if necessary.

　　When you call someone, introduce yourself RIGHT AWAY
First, you should say a greeting.
Second, identify yourself and your affiliation.
Third, ask for the person to whom you would like to speak.
Exercise patience on the phone and let other people finish their sentence.
Speak clearly so you are not misunderstood.
NEVER eat, drink, or chew gum while on the phone doing business.
The first contact a potential client and/or customer typically has with your company is when someone answers your company's phone; Make sure it's done WELL
In a business call, ALWAYS:
* Stop whatever else you are doing.
* Be upbeat.
* Speak clearly into the receiver.