Business Etiquette Training Outline
Module 1: Professional Presence and First Impressions
Making a Strong First Impression
- Professional appearance that fits your industry and role
- Body language that conveys confidence and approachability
- Handshakes, eye contact, and personal space considerations
- Introduction etiquette for different business situations
Professional Grooming and Dress Codes
- Understanding dress codes from casual to formal business attire
- Grooming standards that show attention to detail
- Dressing for your industry, company culture, and specific occasions
- Personal hygiene and scent considerations in close work environments
Digital Professional Presence
- Professional headshots and online profiles
- Video call appearance and background considerations
- Social media presence that supports your professional image
- Email signature and voicemail professionalism
Module 2: Communication Etiquette and Social Skills
Polite and Effective Verbal Communication
- Using appropriate language and tone in different business contexts
- Active listening skills that show respect and engagement
- Interrupting politely and managing conversation flow
- Small talk that builds relationships without wasting time
Business Dining and Entertainment Etiquette
- Restaurant etiquette for business meals
- Ordering, paying, and tipping appropriately
- Conversation topics for business social events
- Alcohol consumption guidelines at business functions
- Working a room without being pushy or awkward
- Business card exchange and follow-up etiquette
- Gracefully joining and leaving conversations
- Remembering names and making meaningful connections
Module 3: Workplace Etiquette and Professional Behavior
Office Environment Courtesy
- Shared workspace consideration and cleanliness
- Kitchen, break room, and common area etiquette
- Noise levels and phone call consideration
- Personal calls and conversations in open office environments
Meeting Etiquette and Participation
- Arriving prepared and on time
- Participating appropriately without dominating
- Technology use during meetings
- Following up on commitments and action items
Email and Digital Communication Manners
- Professional email tone and structure
- Response time expectations and out-of-office messages
- CC and BCC usage and group email considerations
- Instant messaging and chat platform etiquette
Module 4: Client and Customer Interaction Etiquette
Professional Service Standards
- Greeting clients and visitors appropriately
- Managing wait times and delays professionally
- Follow-up and follow-through on commitments
- Handling complaints and difficult situations gracefully
Business Travel and Remote Work Etiquette
- Airport and hotel behavior when representing your company
- Expense account responsibility and documentation
- Working from home professionalism
- Time zone consideration for remote colleagues
Cross-Cultural Business Etiquette
- Understanding cultural differences in business practices
- Gift-giving customs and appropriateness
- Religious and cultural accommodation awareness
- International business communication considerations
Module 5: Leadership and Advanced Professional Etiquette
Executive Presence and Senior-Level Interactions
- Communicating with C-suite executives and board members
- Formal business event and ceremony behavior
- Public speaking and presentation etiquette
- Media interaction and public representation guidelines
Hosting and Event Management Etiquette
- Planning and hosting professional events
- Introductions and guest management
- Seating arrangements and protocol considerations
- Thank you notes and follow-up after events
Mentoring and Professional Development Etiquette
- Being a gracious mentee and effective mentor
- Networking up and building senior relationships
- Professional conference and industry event behavior
- Giving and receiving professional references
Hands-On Components Throughout:
- Role-playing scenarios for different business situations
- Practice sessions for dining, networking, and meeting etiquette
- Video analysis of professional presence and communication
- Peer feedback and coaching exercises
Assessment & Progress Tracking:
- Professional presence evaluations
- Scenario-based etiquette assessments
- Self-reflection and improvement planning
- Feedback from colleagues and supervisors
What You'll Walk Away With:
- Confidence in any professional or social business situation
- Understanding of appropriate behavior across different business contexts
- Skills to represent yourself and your company professionally
- Ability to make others feel comfortable and respected
- Professional presence that opens doors and builds relationships
Specialized Contexts:
- Industry-specific etiquette (healthcare, finance, technology, etc.)
- International business protocol
- Government and public sector professionalism
- Non-profit and community organization etiquette
Resource Library:
- Professional attire guidelines and examples
- Email templates for various business communications
- Business dining dos and don'ts checklists
- Cultural etiquette guides for international business
Common Etiquette Challenges Addressed:
- Navigating office politics and interpersonal dynamics
- Handling awkward social situations at work events
- Balancing friendliness with professionalism
- Managing generational differences in workplace expectations
- Adapting etiquette standards for remote and hybrid work environments
Time Commitment: 1 hour per week for lessons + practice opportunities in real business situations
Note: This program is designed for professionals at all career levels who want to polish their professional image and social skills. Emphasis on practical application and building confidence in business social situations. Adaptable for different industries and company cultures.