In the latest HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with with Pamela Eyring about five ways to develop professional etiquette in your organization to innovate teams. Below is a summary of the main points from their conversation! Check out the full episode and let us know what you think!
Watch the episode here:
Quick Recap
Jonathan and Pamela emphasized the importance of professional etiquette in fostering successful business relationships, both internally and internationally. They discussed the need for respect, attunement, and professionalism in communication, and the significance of addressing people according to their preferred name and title. Lastly, they highlighted the challenges faced by young professionals in an equity business and the benefits of investing in employee education and soft skills.
Professional Etiquette and Cultural Awareness in Innovation and Team Development
Jonathan and Pamela discussed the importance of professional etiquette in the context of innovation and team development. Pamela, the president and owner of the Protocol School of Washington, shared her extensive experience in teaching international protocol, business etiquette, and communication skills. She highlighted the significance of understanding cultural differences and norms, both internationally and within the United States. Jonathan emphasized the need for awareness of these differences, especially in a globally connected world, and suggested that good etiquette is essential for successful business relationships.
Effective Communication and Personal Branding
Jonathan and Pamela discussed the importance of respect, attunement, and professionalism in communication. They emphasized the need to treat others as they would like to be treated and to be aware of one's own communication style. Jonathan shared his preference for a casual approach, but acknowledged the need to adapt to different situations and people's comfort levels. Pamela highlighted the potential for personal and organizational branding through consistent, thoughtful communication. Both agreed on the importance of avoiding behaviors that could unintentionally undermine one's own effectiveness, such as academic snobbery or a lack of consideration for others.
Addressing Name Preferences
Pamela and Jonathan discussed the importance of addressing people according to their preferred name and title. Pamela praised Jonathan for making her feel comfortable by requesting to be called John instead of Dr. Westover, which she noted as a common practice internationally. Jonathan agreed, but also highlighted that preferences may vary, even within a university, and that it's crucial to respect these preferences, especially for women who may not be given their due. He mentioned that his wife, also a professor, prefers to be called by her first name and not as 'Dr. Westover'.
Professional Etiquette and Cultural Differences
Pamela and Jonathan discussed the importance of professional etiquette in building relationships and creating a comfortable environment for others. They emphasized that etiquette is a preference and can vary based on individual communication styles and cultural backgrounds. Pamela shared her approach of starting with a light formal manner to show respect, which she found successful in her various professional interactions. Jonathan shared his experience of learning about different levels of formality in Asian languages and how this translates into etiquette. They then transitioned to discussing why HR leaders should prioritize professional etiquette.
Business Etiquette and Team Cohesion
Jonathan and Pamela discussed the importance of business etiquette and its impact on team cohesion and collaboration. Pamela emphasized that business etiquette should be applied internally, not just externally, and should be modeled by leaders at all levels. She also highlighted the need for consistent expectations and accountability, which enhances the company's brand and client relationships. Jonathan agreed, noting that his interactions with others are crucial for his professional currency and team's behavior. Pamela suggested that HR, particularly in the education and training side, could benefit from external perspectives to address internal etiquette challenges.
Improving Young Professionals' Business Etiquette
Pamela discussed the challenges faced by young professionals in an equity business, particularly in terms of appropriate attire and dining etiquette. She suggested bringing in an external educator to provide tutorials on business etiquette and professionalism. Pamela also highlighted the importance of investing in employee education and soft skills to differentiate the organization from competitors.
Listen to the webinar here:
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