Business Etiquette: Greetings

Standard business etiquette establishes generally agreed-upon principles for greetings. Although guidelines for business etiquette greetings and introductions may work well in most situations, be aware that it may be more important to be aware and responsive of particular situations than to follow a hard-and-fast rule.

In-Person Etiquette

Following greeting etiquette when entering a room can help you make a positive first impression. Business etiquette for greetings expects people already in the room to stand up when being introduced to a new arrival. Pay attention to names, and always introduce the “less important” person to the “more important person.”

If there is some reason that you can’t stand up to greet a business associate, apologize and explain why. Smile, make eye contact and introduce yourself. Don’t assume that someone else will take charge of the introductions.

Business etiquette dictates that clients should be considered the “more important person,” even more so than the boss. Run this by your boss beforehand, however. Avoid using people’s first names unless you’re invited to do so.

Business Salutation Etiquette

Correctly worded salutations are a hallmark of proper greetings etiquette. Traditional business communication should be formal and followed by a colon, such as “Dear Mr. Smith:” written at the top of the letter, as advised by the Emily Post Institute.

Use the recipient’s last name preceded by “Mr.,” or “Ms.” or other title, such as “Dr.” If you’re unsure of recipients’ preferred gender pronouns, just use their full first and last name, suggests Bottom Line. Also avoid using the phrase, “To Whom It May Concern.”

Business Email Etiquette

Email communication has ushered in a new era of informality, but business etiquette still dictates that emails begin with a greeting. Skipping the email greeting can be viewed as impersonal so be sure to include a brief salutation using that person’s name.

According to business etiquette expert, Lydia Ramsey, business emails should include a descriptive subject line and a clear, concise message. Complicated matters should be discussed in person or over the telephone.

International Etiquette

Mastering the art of business greeting etiquette might seem complex enough without the added consideration of international communications, but it’s still appropriate to research the cultural expectations for business when working with clients from other countries. For example, Kwintessential says that French business greetings are formal, and you are expected to remain standing until told where to sit.

In Japan, bowing is considered an appropriate greeting form, although foreigners may be permitted to substitute a nod of the head, according to TripSavvy. Each country has unique business etiquette customs to learn and follow.

Business Greetings Faux Pas

Hugs and kisses are generally considered improper business etiquette for greetings in the U.S. and can cause embarrassment. Unless you observe co-workers engaging in casual embraces in more informal work environments, avoid this in favor of more formal handshakes, recommends Home Business Magazine.