Etiquette training for business professionals is not exactly a new need. As we often point out, everything is communication, and we've been helping our clients improve this form of communication for decades.
But we are hearing the need is greater now.
"Almost 50% of upcoming college graduates say they are more likely to apply for a job with access to employer-provided professional development."
– HR Dive
Employees are returning to offices after working from home. A new generation of young adults is joining the workplace.
And while this new generation has honed their abilities to learn and collaborate in a virtual world, some are finding in-person communication is not a cinch.
Soft skills for professionals are in demand
A recent article in HR Dive explores not just the need for business etiquette, but how investing in etiquette training can help companies improve recruitment and retention and reduce absenteeism.
The article reports that the demand for teaching professionalism and etiquette has joined AI as a top area of interest for both companies and the talented and skilled personnel they most want to hire.
Not stodgy, just practical
In an interview for the article, human resources expert Christine Cruzvergara points out that the etiquette training companies need isn't about being "stodgy." She says it's really about learning to communicate and respect others in your work community.
Employers are seeing returns on this investment by:
- Helping new college graduates see how they can work in ways that show respect for co-workers and clients, not only instilling good manners but also heightening their emotional intelligence (or EQ).
- Linking professionalism and etiquette to work expectations such as showing up for work and meeting deadlines.
- Attracting top talent because young professionals and recent college graduates are looking for companies that invest in their learning and development
- Reducing turnover, because investing in training to build soft skills helps employees solve work problems AND creates a workplace where they'll want to stay.
We'd like to add that young professionals aren't the only ones who gain from etiquette training. Plenty of their more senior co-workers could use some coaching, too.
Building relationships that work
In a work world where people spend hours in front of screens and frequently eat takeout at their desks, social skills are often neglected.
Yet, some of the most important moments are those in which we are together, face to face with our co-workers, leadership, and customers.
"Emphasizing the importance of consideration - and the workplace as a type of community - is helpful."
– HR Dive
We've seen highly educated and experienced executives struggle with everyday etiquette—with some feeling less confident than they'd like and others offending without a clue.
There's no need for that.
With just a few hours invested in a business etiquette refresher, smart and capable people can easily and comfortably make the impression they want to make. That's a good move for everyone.
Learn more
Find the full article from HR Dive here: Employers, educators are filling in Gen Z's etiquette gap
To make the best impression at a business meal, we've put together this simple guide to getting it right—so you can concentrate on what's really important and feel at ease.
For a look at all the ways we can help professionals polish up their etiquette and interpersonal skills, see this.
