Business Introductions
Here at Sheffield Technology Parks, we have a great history of introducing people in business. Here we discus some of the basics when meeting people in business situations.
Introductions are a part of business etiquette that every good business person needs to know. First impressions last and one would want to get off to a good start after all. Who knows, that first handshake might lead to future business relations or even a partnership. Being well-versed in business introduction etiquette also emphasises a polished professional who knows their way around people.
Make introductions appropriately in the business setting with some simple guidelines. Hold deference to clients with high-ranking positions. When you introduce a client to a senior executive for example, etiquette demands that you first state the name of a dignitary. If a person’s position in a company is unclear to you or if he doesn’t have any title, supply details on what their job entails and the kind of work they do. Follow up with background information on what he or she does so as to help start up a conversation.
Business etiquette for introducing members of the opposite sex holds age, ranking or degree of distinction as basis. If both parties are within the same age bracket or rank, it is expected that one speaks the woman’s name first
Titles such as inspector, doctor and so on are honorifics that people must bestow you with and be mentioned ideally only if they ask for the nature of your work. Though uncommon, this practice of not titling oneself leaves a good impression of humility.
If a person allows you to call her by their first name, do so. Never use it without permission so as not to come out rude or inappropriate or worse, overfriendly. All three qualities will leave a bad taste in the mouth, something that needs to be avoided.
When responding to an introduction at a formal setting, stand up to show your respect and give a firm handshake at the elbow level and not the shoulder. Do not crush the person’s fingers no matter how nervous or intimidated you are!
With these helpful tips in business introductions, you are sure to leave a good impression not only on whoever you’re introducing, but also with whoever you meet.