Students' readiness

In your life so far, you have known your family environment, your direct social environment, and your school environment. You are aware that each environment has its specific rules. Behaviour that is accepted in one environment might be unacceptable in another environment e.g. at home you can do your homework at your desk and when you feel like having a break, you simply get up. In school, on the other hand, you can't simply get up whenever you feel like having a break.

First, let us tell you that there are no rules that apply to every work environment. A traditional family business has a different environment than a new start-up or global player. But, we can give you some suggestions that will give you an idea of what to pay attention to.

Generally, there are several categories that commonly form the term "Business Etiquette".

• Courteous and considerate treatment of others and avoidance of abrupt, aggressive, or indifferent behaviour
  
• Appropriate appearance
  
• Appropriate body language
  
• Appropriate use of digital communication
  
• Expected table manners
  

You don't want to read the rest of this page? You feel like you already know everything there is to know? Well, prove it and take this test. Depending on the result, maybe you should keep on reading.

We have already mentioned some basic behavioural rules as part of the interview process. Those also generally apply when entering this new environment. Here are the things that you should pay attention to:

• The first impression is important. When you meet new colleagues remember to smile, establish eye contact and greet with a firm handshake.
  
• When being introduced to other colleagues, make sure to stand up, say your full name and again - a firm handshake.
  
• When you forgot someone's name, don't be shy to admit it and ask again. Honesty is the best way to work such things out.
  
• Be 5min early for any meeting.
  
• When being involved in conversations, don't interrupt others and don't talk too much.
  
• If any disagreements arise, discuss them in private with that person and not within a group or meeting.
  
• Try to prepare yourself for any meetings. If it is your first meeting of that kind, ask your colleagues what to expect. This is also a great way to get in touch with them.
  
• Pro-Tip: Leave your cell phone in your pocket when you are at work. When you are on break, use the chance to talk to others instead of checking your messages.
  

Do you want to have these suggestions in form of a video? Here you go.