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Top 7 Etiquette Tips For Successful Meetings

Written by Lydia Ramsey

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In business you always introduce less important people to more important people. The way to do this is to say the name of the more important person first, followed by the words "I'd like to introduce..." and then give the other person's name. Be sure to add something about each person so they will know why they are being introduced and will have some information with which to start a conversation.

Some people love meetings and others dread them. Despite having the reputation as sleep enhancers, meetings are actually an opportunity for you to network with management, fellow employees, clients and vendors. You may be asked to help with problem solving and share in making decisions at a meeting or you may be included for the sole purpose of building relationships with other attendees. No matter how you feel about meetings, this is a chance for you to use your best business manners to showcase your abilities. If your meeting manners aren’t impressive, you won’t be either. Here are seven helpful tips for making the most of the business meeting:

1. Check your calendar immediately and let the appropriate person know if you can attend. If you cannot be present, say why.

2. Get ready for the meeting. Review the agenda, read any important materials such as memos or briefs and use the Internet to research topics if necessary. Make it clear that you are a person who attends to details and comes prepared.

3. Let the organizer know that you will be an active and interested participant by asking if there is anything else you should know or do in advance. If you find research material that would contribute substantially to the meeting, offer it to the meeting leader.

4. Arrive on time, not too early and certainly not late. You may interfere with the meeting preparation if you show up more than ten minutes in advance. If you arrive late, you create a distraction and an interruption. Offer a brief apology—not an excuse of epic proportions—and take your seat.

5. Choose your seat carefully if seating is not assigned. If you are new to the group, ask where you should sit so you don’t accidentally take the spot where someone else customarily sits.

6. Participate and show that you are involved. Making eye contact, smiling, leaning into the conversation and nodding are all ways to let others know that you are engaged. Be careful not to interrupt. You may have a brilliant point to make, but wait for the right moment.

7. When the meeting is over, offer to help clean up and volunteer to distribute handouts or do extra research if appropriate. Let the meeting leader know that you paid attention and you are willing and able to take on extra assignments when needed.

Lydia Ramsey
		About the author:
		Lydia Ramsey is a business etiquette expert, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author of Manners That Sell - Adding The Polish That Builds Profits. She has been quoted or featured in The New York Times, Investors' Business Daily, Entrepreneur, Inc., Real Simple and Woman's Day. Read More >>