Master Office, Meeting & Social Etiquette Like a Pro

Elevator Etiquette

• Only take the elevator if you're going at least two flights up or three flights down. Otherwise, take the stairs.
• While waiting, stand away from the doors. Someone may be exiting, and you should always let them out before trying to get in.
• Wait on either side of the elevator, not in front of it.
• Hold the door if you see someone rushing to catch it.

While riding the elevator:

• Speak only when necessary.
• Allow others their personal space.
• Face the door.
• Keep your belongings next to your feet.
• Avoid talking on the phone.

Waiting Room Etiquette

• Don’t be rude to the receptionist.
• Announce your arrival politely and clearly.
• Be on time.
• Keep your phone on silent or vibrate mode.
• If you must take an urgent call, let them know you’ll call back soon or just leave a message.
• Don’t pretend to be overly busy or distracted.
• Don’t be clumsy or careless.
• Don’t litter.
• Avoid complaining loudly.
• Remember, the receptionist is not your buddy.
• Maintain a professional demeanor.
• There’s no room for informal behavior here.
• Keep the decorum intact.

Workplace Dos

• Be punctual — always.
• Get familiar with the workplace, people, and policies.
• The first person at the door should always hold it open for the next.

Workplace Don’ts

• Don’t chew gum.
• Don’t spread gossip.
• Don’t raise your voice.
• And importantly, don’t save your best behavior for special occasions. Make it an everyday habit.

Meeting Etiquette

Meeting etiquette is all about the right behavior when you're attending a meeting. How you present yourself during a meeting really sticks — with your manager, team, and even clients. It can shape how you’re perceived, so best not to start off on the wrong foot.

First Impressions Count

• Stand up when greeting someone.
• Make eye contact.
• Exchange pleasantries.
• Accept the established seating order — and if you’re not sure, just ask.

Handshakes Matter

• A good handshake should last 2–5 seconds.
• Avoid the dreaded ‘limp fish’ handshake.
• Don’t pump their hand more than three times.
• Don’t overdo it.
• Always respect age and authority.

Common Handshake Mistakes:

• Limp handshake
• Sweaty palms
• Grip that’s too tight or too loose
• Queen-style handshake (palm up)
• Not offering a straightforward, firm handshake
• Double handshake (using both hands unnecessarily)

Handshakes are gender-neutral — but respect rank.

Self-Introductions

• Start with a simple “Hello” or “Good (morning/afternoon/etc.)”
• Say your full name.
• Add a little credibility (like your designation or purpose).
• Follow it up with a pleasant remark.

Introducing Others

Always introduce the senior person first.

Who gets introduced to whom?

Key Tips While Introducing People

• Make eye contact.
• Speak clearly.
• State names and add a little trivia, if appropriate.
• Use the names and titles people prefer.
• Stand up when introducing or being introduced.
• Pay attention and respond with grace.
• Use the person’s name again after you’re introduced.
• Be polite if you need to correct someone.
• Allow others to introduce themselves, too.

Business Card Etiquette

When giving a business card:

• Make sure it’s clean and crisp.
• Use a card holder.
• Offer it with both hands, so it’s readable to the receiver.
• Don’t give out worn or damaged cards.
• Don’t hand out more than one card, unless asked.

When receiving a business card:

• It’s completely okay to ask for one.
• Let a senior or authority figure initiate the exchange.
• Receive it with both hands.
• Look at it for a few seconds — it shows respect and interest.

Meeting Etiquette – Do’s

• Always be on time.
• Remember people’s names.
• Be prepared with handouts or your presentation.
• Keep your phone on silent.
• Face the person you’re speaking with.
• Speak clearly and concisely.
• Stay relevant and brief.
• Let senior people speak first.
• Listen with attention.
• Show genuine interest.
• Stay calm, even in tense moments.
• Having water, tea, or coffee is okay — but avoid eating, unless it’s a working lunch.
• Stay for the entire meeting.

Meeting Etiquette – Don’ts

• Don’t pull out a chair for a colleague — it may seem out of place in formal settings.
• No cross-talking or whispering.
• Don’t be too loud or disruptive.
• Don’t create chaos by overreacting.
• Avoid using your phone.
• And finally, leave the meeting room tidy. Sure, it’ll be cleaned later — but good manners go a long way.

The Bottom Line

Whether it’s in a meeting, elevator, waiting room, or your office space, everything boils down to a few simple things: Good manners, courtesy, and consideration. Stick to these, and you’ll avoid most awkward moments and misunderstandings — both professionally and socially.

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