How To Stand Out in the Business World

I’m often asked about how to stand out in the business world, especially when someone is new to the organization. It’s an important question, and many basics will always be true—being punctual, courteous and keeping your word, for starters. In today’s blog, we’re spotlighting a few more secrets to business success.

How To Stand Out in the Business World

Dress Your Best

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management:

• 55 percent of first impressions are made by what we see (visual).
• 38 percent is the way we hear your first words (vocal).
• 7 percent are the actual words you say (verbal).

Adding a few new updates to your already existing wardrobe always freshens up your closet. For women, a crisp, white cotton shirt, a couple of beautiful scarves, a new pair of pumps, and a great pair of flats will make your wardrobe look and feel fresh. A nice casual classic option for her is a great pair of white jeans, a classic belt and a pair of great-fitting black slacks to wear with a blouse, blazer or sweater.

Men’s business basics include slimmer cut suits, a quality oxford shoe, patterned socks, classic prints and rich hues of blue and gray suiting. Business casual for him depends on the industry, but a good tip is to go for separates and dress the jacket down with something lightweight. Pants may be more relaxed, but don’t get too comfortable. The slack should be professional weight fabric—steer clear from the popular “jogger” you see in some athletic stores. Shoes range from lace-up leather oxfords to loafers. Avoid flip-flops and tennis shoes unless the job consists of sun and sand.

Make Proper Introductions

A proper introduction includes your first and last name, a beautiful smile and direct eye contact. It always helps when the other person is wearing a name tag on the right shoulder (to follow the line of sight of a handshake). When introducing two people to each other, make sure to share a little bit of information about each person if you are familiar.

Know Your Dining Skills

Nothing is more awkward than wondering which is your butter plate and which is your water or wine glass. Make a simple B in a D with each one of your hands. The B will be on the left and the D will be on the right, signaling bread, and drink. Here is an example of a properly appointed table, which will carry you throughout your professional years. We covered some common table tips in our recent Dining Etiquette blog.

“Be Interested and Interesting”

You may have come across this piece of advice, and I interpret this to mean being an engaged listener who is prepared to contribute positively to the conversation. Very Well Mind describes active listening as being “fully engaged and immersed in what the other person is saying.” One straightforward way to ensure you’re hearing what the other person is trying to communicate is to paraphrase what they’ve said. Other reminders include withholding judgment, being patient and asking open ended questions.

In a Fast Company article, Suzanne Bates is interviewed about being well-read: “Be a person of interest by reading and informing yourself on a variety of topics from world affairs to business and culture.” She also recommends being “attuned to each person to meet them where they are” with a curious spirit.

Practice the Four Agreements

As you might recall, one of my favorite books is The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. He reminds his readers to:

• Be Impeccable With Your Word
• Don’t Take Anything Personally
• Don’t Make Assumptions
• Always Do Your Best

Practicing the above tips can be transformative and another way to avoid burnout. It is also helpful in personal relationships.

I recently picked up a book, The Obstacle is the Way, by Ryan Holiday. It focuses on turning trials into triumphs. I have not finished it yet but thought I might mention something he shares in Part 1, Chapter Steady Your Nerves. He writes, “Don’t think for a second that grace and poise and serenity are the soft attributes of some aristocrat. Ultimately, nerve is a matter of defiance and control.” He goes on to say, “Grace and poise are sought over talent because these two attributes precede the opportunity to deploy any other skill.” It’s a good read so far and worth adding to your queue.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

If you’re looking for tips on how to stand out in the business world, you may also like Positive Thinking Boosts Your Health and Career. See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.