Etiquette is about presenting yourself with the kind of polish that shows you can be taken seriously. These six rules will improve your business etiquette and help you to get ahead.

Be courteous and positive – and this is irrespective of the pressures on you or your organization. Address conflict as
situation-related, rather than person-related. Apologize when you need to.

Be on time – Tardiness is on the rise. Punctuality shows that you honor your commitments and can be trusted. Schedule appointments sensibly. Respect other people’s time and they will respect you.

Be trustworthy – Keep confidences. Be aware of the impact that information might have on others and/or the organization.

Show concern for others – Often a person’s career has ended, stalled or reversed because the person lacked concern for others. Speak well of your coworkers and point out their accomplishments to others. Appearing to take the credit in a superiors’ or customers’ eyes is the surest way to sabotage relationships.

If you must interrupt a conversation, a meeting, or someone’s concentration, quickly state what you need, and show consideration for the fact that you are interrupting valuable work or progress.

Dress appropriately – If in doubt, always err on the side of conservative. Being wrinkled, unshaven, smelly or unkempt communicates (intentionally or not) that you don’t care enough about the situation, the people or the company. First impressions are lasting impressions.

Use proper written and spoken language – Words have the power to give life and death. Ask questions and listen to the answers. Do a variety of writing. Writing helps clarify ideas, thoughts and feelings. People who can express themselves clearly and appropriately have a definite advantage.