Manners are still important and can make a difference. The difference can be the impression of the company. An employee who is considerate and helpful is remembered in a positive way. On the other side, a rude employee gets talked about for days. It just may be a good idea to keep manners in mind.
1. Use of names — Get the names right and use them. Know the employees names because it makes them a person and tells them that you cared enough to know what to call them. Saying “hey you” only turns out to be a negative. Part of getting the name right is in some cases asking people what they would like to be called.
2. Clear up issues right away – Making someone wait to be talked with about an issue,unless perhaps there is an emergency, is wrong. In most cases there is time to clear up issues right away. Sure sometimes there needs to be an investigation but usually only for the big issues. Most issues can be handled right away and what is the point of making someone wait anyway. It is best to deal with issues in a timely manner.
3. Answer e-mails – It’s just plain rude not to acknowledge an e-mail. If you don’t want to discuss the subject of the e-mail, just say so. Or if someone is asking for something and you do not want to or can’t accommodate the person, simply answer it with a no. Not responding to an e-mail leaves a bad impression. Ignoring the e-mail does not make it go away but instead may give the impression that you can’t be bothered.
4. Help people – Yes help the customers but also help co-workers. Not just the ones in your department but help out people in other departments when possible. It leaves a great impression and builds a reputation of being a team player. Just now and then help someone out in the company. In addition when someone in the company get a “kudos” make a point to send them or say a congratulations.
5. When you meet someone – Greet the person, shake hands, smile, have a short pleasant conversation, and make the person feel important. Ask the person if she or he needs a drink. I am amazed at the number of people who miss the most basic of manners with saying “Please” and “Thank you”. Be gracious in every contact. This is a great way to be with vendors or suppliers. But it is also something that should happen when dealing with employees.
6. Be the example – employee notice what the manager says and the actions the manager takes. Asking people to do things should not only be stated but should also be something the employees see in the manager. If a manager wants superb customer service then that is what the manager must give to everyone.
Manners probably seem like common sense yet often seem forgotten at times. Having manners is about being polite and considerate. It is acknowledging that treating people with respect is extremely important. Manners are about doing that.