Business today is all about relationships. Clients don’t want to work with a company, they want to do business with the people who are employed by the firm. A recent article published by the American Institute of CPAs discusses how practicing good business etiquette can make a difference in how clients view your relationship with them. A few pointers include:
- Be courteous and thoughtful.
- Listen!
- Don’t interrupt.
- Keep a calm tone.
- Avoid derogatory language.
- Treat everyone the same.
- Show respect and be sincere.
Today, as you send another email, answer the phone, or sit across the table listening to a client, focus on practicing these core principles of business etiquette. It might just change the way your clients view their relationship with you!
Kelly A. O’Leary, CPA, CGMA, MBA, CITP, CIA, CFE
Vice President, Finance and Administration