Back to course 'PRDV104: Professional Etiquette'

Topic outline

  • Unit 1: Workplace Courtesy

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    Everyday courtesies include holding the door for the person behind you, privately and publicly thanking colleagues who help you, encouraging your co-workers, and treating others as you would like to be treated. Neglecting these courtesies can damage your relationships, cause hurt feelings, and lead to misunderstandings that are difficult to repair. In this unit, we will explore workplace manners and the positive behavioral qualities most employers seek in their employees.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • explain why courtesy, professional manners and the Golden Rule are considered other-centered;
      • describe employee's responsibility to contribute to a positive work atmosphere;
      • describe appropriate and inappropriate conduct in the workplace and at company events;
      • describe various types of workplace violence and their impact on the organization;
      • explain how codes of conduct contribute to ethical decision making;
      • compare and contrast social and emotional intelligence; and
      • describe qualities of great leaders and how they relate to concepts of professional etiquette.

    • 1.1: The Golden Rule for Business Etiquette

      The Golden Rule is a principle of ethics that says you should treat others as you would like to be treated. When you are unsure about how to respond in a given business situation, think about how you would like to be treated. Try to give others the benefit of the doubt. Maybe they acted in a way that seemed improper or unfair because they misunderstood your intention, they lacked certain key information, or they were simply unfamiliar with the workplace.

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        Professionalism, Etiquette, and Ethical Behavior Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Professional etiquette is centered on others. Our attitudes and behaviors create an impression of who we are and what we represent. The author discusses some behavioral traits successful professionals share. Note the descriptions of social and emotional intelligence. What role does empathy play in interaction with others, and how can you avoid being tone-deaf in emotional situations?

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        Contributing to a Positive Work Atmosphere Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        This article describes three areas that affect our ability to create a healthy and positive atmosphere in our workplace. The author offers suggestions for getting along with co-workers, reducing workplace violence, and ethical decision-making. The questions at the end will help you see how well you understood the article.

    • 1.2: Etiquette In and Out of the Office

      As an employee, you always represent your company to others no matter where you are or what type of professional event you are attending. Remember to always treat others with courtesy. This section offers advice on how to act in business-related situations.

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        Workplace Etiquette Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Read this article for some specific suggestions about accepted business etiquette at luncheons and company events. Try the practice questions and check your answers. How did you do?

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        Seven Secrets of Business Etiquette Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        The longer we stay at a job, the more casual we typically become. This article suggests avoiding slang, misspellings, or remarks that may be too casual for business interactions. Read the scenarios. Do you identify with any of these situations? Are the answers helpful to you?

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        Professional Handshakes Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Watch this video to learn the importance of the handshake. People from different cultures may interpret a handshake differently. In any business setting, shaking hands is more formal than in situations with friends and family, where you may offer a hug. Try the handshake techniques from the video, and consider the helpful strategies for when you are unable to shake hands with someone.

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        Business Introductions Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Watch this video to learn why you should listen to introductions. Pay attention to the name the person uses to introduce themselves. Be sure you get off on the right foot by asking for permission to call a person by a nickname. For example, the video host introduces herself as Kimberly, and while she tolerates being called Kim, she absolutely does not appreciate anyone who calls her Kimmie.

    • 1.3: The Qualities Employers Look For

      A great leader is someone who fosters a culture that encourages risk taking and creates an environment where employees are free from unnecessary burdens and able to focus on their job. Great leaders are emotionally intelligent.

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        Leadership Etiquette Page
        Students must
        Mark as done

        Read this article about the qualities of a great leader. Reflect on how these descriptions apply to aspects of etiquette we have discussed so far, such as courtesy, decency, dignity, and rules.

    • Unit 1 Assessment

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        Unit 1 Assessment Quiz
        Students must
        Receive a grade

        Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

        • This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
        • You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
        • You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.