By Daniela Aroche

One should never underestimate the impact good manners can make on a prospective employer; and according to industry experts, mastering the basics of business etiquette could provide an invaluable edge in a competitive job market.

"People in every business need to know that qualifications are not enough these days. Clients and business colleagues require respect, ethical behaviour and polite communication. Research consistently shows that business is built on relationships - and they are easily damaged by poor business etiquette," said Eve Ash, psychologist and founder of Seven Dimensions.

"By the same token, people's career success is also built on relationships they build with their clients, their team and their managers - so therefore if you've got good business etiquette then you're more likely to be successful."

Correct business etiquette is essential for lawyers representing their firm in any situation, but mastering etiquette is also a skill which employers hold in high regard when it comes to both candidate selection and career advancement.

"Generally, the attitude and manner displayed at an interview are good indicators as to how the person will conduct themselves within our business environment. We consider the 'right fit' to be a vital component when considering candidates for positions with our firm. This encompasses the manner in which they will conduct themselves both in the office and at client facing events," said Angela Manandhar, regional HR manager, Asia for Simmons & Simmons.

"Lawyers in particular need to be able to deal with a wide range of people and situations. A good lawyer will have a host of tools in their repertoire that they will be able to draw upon for different scenarios - some will require a hard line approach, others a softer, more empathetic style. They will also be able to tell when to change tack if necessary to influence meetings or negotiations and get the best for the client."

Business etiquette covers everything from telephone greetings to appropriate attire and punctuality, but Ash says the central theme of business etiquette is simply being polite.

"There's a blurred line between values, ethical behaviour and business etiquette, but good business etiquette is simply polite communication or about pitching yourself slightly more formally until you know the required level of communication," she said.

It may not seem like a deal-breaker, but industry experts maintain that having a handle on business etiquette is key to career success. "It's absolutely critical. You might have 99% fabulous skills, but one undesirable blunder is completely going to ruin your chances," said Ash. 

Manandhar agrees and adds that employees with polished business etiquette and excellent communication as a result of that always stand out as top talent.

"As a general observation, and not just in our business, the most successful business professionals are not only excellent technicians, they also possess excellent people skills allowing them to adapt their approach when necessary," she said.

Top tips for business etiquette

* Whether you are meeting someone for the first time or have known them for many years, always include appropriate conversation to show that you have an interest in them as a person and an understanding of their situation, rather than simply seeking to extract something for yourself.

* Never disparage another work colleague or law firm

* Attend meetings punctually

* Take care with your attire and conduct, not for the sake of yourself but for those who have to deal with you

* If you need to have a difficult conversation, never do it by email and ideally sleep on it in any event

* Never talk about others in a way that you would not talk about them in their presence

* In the tone and content of conversation, never be rude or demanding, rather be inclusive - bring people with you

* Return phone calls promptly

* Do not harass a recipient after you sent an unsolicited email.

Source: Shane Barber, managing partner of Truman Hoyle Lawyers