Knowledge@ASB - Business Etiquette: The Lowdown on Corporate Turn-offs
Channel: UNSW Community
Date: 14/10/2011

In a business relationship -- as in any other -- small things are often the most annoying. Smiley faces on emails, wet-fish handshakes and the clang of the teaspoon on the side of the mug during a meeting may seem trivial, but they can be extremely irritating for colleagues, prospective partners and clients. Understanding how to keep behaviour neutral is key, according to Danielle Di-Masi, a business etiquette expert who coaches leaders in building the right perceptions for business success. While direct eye contact is too much in some cultures, others consider a corporate hug okay. Get it right, she says, because there's no second chance at making a first impression.