Tip of the Month for May 2006

Training a New Hire

When hiring a new employee it is natural to assume the individual knows basic business etiquette. Should you then realize they are lacking some of the necessary social skills, you might wish you had stated your expectations in the beginning. So how do you introduce good behavior when they have been with your organization for a period of time? Answer: with finesse. I would suggest incorporating the topic of business etiquette in your weekly or monthly meetings, and gradually address the concerns you may have. It is much easier to convey your message to a group rather than singling any one person out.

The best way to ensure that all employees understand what is expected is to list them at the time they are hired. Here a few ideas to get you started:

• Stand when you greet people. If you’re seated, stand up to shake their hand.
• Shake hands both upon greeting and before departing.
• Present your business card to the receptionist each time you visit a company.
• Present your card with the print facing the receptionist.
• Turn cell phones off during meetings.
• Return phone calls and email messages within 24 hours.

Train specifically how you would like for your new hires to introduce themselves. Typically, they would state their full name, the company name, and their position within the company.

Review the structure of the company with a new hire so when it comes time to make an introduction he or she will understand who the most important person is.

Impress to the new hire the importance of good listening skills – especially in sales.

Be clear from the beginning about your dress code so there are no misunderstandings about your company’s standards.

You may want to review previous tips to create your own list when training a new hire. This will not only continue the standards set forth by your company but will alleviate any misunderstandings for the new hire.