Trust is hard to earn and maintain in business relationships. Sometimes something as seemingly small as a misunderstanding or perceived rudeness in business communication can wreck a working relationship. In business communication, good manners and courtesy in communication can mean the difference between a profit and a loss. Learning to be courteous and polite at all times can save wasted energy at work worrying about when you may have fumbled in business etiquette and courtesy.

Courtesy in Telephone Communication

Make sure that when you cannot answer your phone that your recorded message is sincere and polite. Often it is in the tone of the voice that can display courtesy. Apologizing for not being available when your caller needed to speak to you is a show of courtesy. Stating when you will be back is another courtesy.

Most important, returning a message promptly is not only courteous but professional. When answering the phone, smile. It will show in your voice. Listen completely to what your caller has to say before starting to speak.

Make sure you ask for permission before putting your caller on hold and wait for the caller to say it’s okay. Never hang up without saying good-bye or giving notice that you are ending the call, even if the caller is rude.

Courtesy in Email Communication

Emails go a long way in business communications. They also last a long time. They can become permanent records of your words. With that knowledge, make sure when you are preparing an email that you read it aloud or otherwise review it to make sure that you not only get your meaning across but that you get it across in a courteous way.

Start your emails with a professional salutation that greets your receiver or group of receivers by name. Keep in mind this email is not a casual note between friends. Use complete sentences and good grammar. Never write an email when angry or in the mood to vent, as chances are an email sent under these conditions will be missing the courtesies that could make your communication more effective.

Courtesy in Business Letters

Often, it is acceptable to send a letter to convey a business communication. As with an email, be sure to have your letter proofread for spelling and format and your grammar checked for correctness. Say thank-you when and where needed. Make sure to close your letter with an appreciation for anticipated time spent by the receiver reading your communication.

Courtesy in Face-to-Face Communication

Often the most difficult business communications are delivered face-to-face, such as delivering bad news to an employee. It is good practice to review in front of a mirror what you plan to say. This will give you a good idea of how your facial expressions change with your message. When visiting another country for business, it is not polite to force your culture on those with whom you are there to do business.

Understanding cultural differences can help you be courteous when communicating with those from countries where face-to-face courtesies are displayed differently than how you may be accustomed.

Courtesy in Announcements in Bulletin Boards and Newsletters

Announcements posted on bulletin boards or in newsletters are common in many workplaces. This practice can sometimes result in rude or crude displays of communication. When in charge of delivering a message to everyone at once, you should strive be courteous to all. Use of slang or uncommon phrases may offend and detract from your intent.

Make sure your bulletin board announcement or newsletter is written with all the consideration given to other professional business communications.