printable version

9/11/2004

Business Professionalism
by Traci Hughes, Training Coordinator, SAU SBDC

Changing perceptions in today’s business world - such as globalization and an increasingly diverse workforce - have led many to wonder if the old rules of etiquette still hold true today or if things have really changed? Are there any basic foundations of business professionalism that have withstood the test of time? Where can I find out about the latest business practices and procedures?

Business etiquette, or business professionalism, means more than knowing which utensil to use when - it is about knowing how to dress and how to interact with people in a variety of cultures. Understanding and practicing the basics of etiquette show that you care and desire to be taken seriously as a professional member of the business community.

There are several resources available to help you keep up-to-date on the latest trends: attend one the ASBDC seminars on Business Professionalism and/or Customer Service, check out the Business Reference section in your local bookstore, or subscribe to a trade publication.

Always remember the simplest guideline you can follow is the age-old Golden Rule: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.

Recent | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004 | 2003

Subscribe right now to our FREE bi-monthly E-News service!
You will receive articles two full weeks before they appear on the Arkansas SBDC web site!

Index of 2004 articles

The Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration through a partnership with the University of Arkansas at Little Rock College of Business and other institutions of higher education. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA. It is the goal of UALR to eliminate discriminatory harassment and to promote equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, color, national origin, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran's status, or disability.