StreeMeClass EP100 | Business Etiquette: Customs of Business/Work

Business Etiquette Fundamentals
📌 When introduced to someone, especially an elder or superior, always stand up to show respect, rather than just saying hello while seated.
📌 When introducing a subordinate (like an assistant), introduce the junior person to the senior person first, stating their name and role briefly (e.g., "This is Donut, my secretary").
📌 To ensure you remember names during introductions, repeat the person's name back immediately once, such as saying, "Oh, Ms. Ja, is that correct?"

Professional Communication and Interaction
✋ When handshaking in Western culture (like shaking hands), the older person or higher-ranking individual should extend their hand first.
✋ A proper handshake requires a firm grip but avoid squeezing or fidgeting; maintain eye contact and avoid winking or touching the other person unnecessarily.
✋ When presenting or receiving items (especially business cards, common in Japanese/Korean culture), use two hands or support the item with one hand while the other hand guides it, showing focus and respect.

Telephone and Digital Decorum
🤫 If you must take an urgent call during a meeting, notify attendees beforehand that you might receive an important call and request permission to step out briefly.
🤫 Set your phone to silent/vibrate during meetings; avoid using distracting ringtones (like overly loud songs) as they disrupt the professional atmosphere.
🤫 Refrain from using instant messaging apps like LINE or WhatsApp during business discussions or meetings, as it is considered impolite and inattentive.

Appearance and Body Language
👔 Dress appropriately for the occasion, focusing on being tidy, clean, and well-ironed; a wrinkled shirt detracts from professionalism.
🧘 Be mindful of posture and seating; avoid overly provocative or revealing sitting positions, such as exposing too much leg when sitting cross-legged, as this can draw attention away from the business topic.
🙅 Avoid pointing with your finger when addressing people or referring to information on a screen, as this can be interpreted as demanding or impolite; use an open hand gesture instead.

Dining Etiquette in Business Settings
💵 During a business lunch where you are a guest, do not order the most expensive items unless specifically invited or asked to do so by the host.
🍜 Avoid ordering food that is difficult or messy to eat during a business lunch, such as oysters or Peking duck, as it can interrupt conversation and create an awkward impression.
☕ If you have very specific coffee requirements (e.g., caramel macchiato with half a pump of sugar substitute), bring your preferred ingredients or beverage with you instead of making complex demands that inconvenience the venue or host.

Financial and Departure Protocols
🤫 If a superior is paying for a business meal, do not insist on splitting the bill or offer to pay, as this can make the senior person feel awkward or suggest you believe they cannot afford it.
🎁 If you wish to reciprocate hospitality, instead of offering to pay, bring a thoughtful gift (like a suitable snack or dessert) based on prior knowledge of the superior's preferences.
🚗 When attending an event with a superior or senior colleague, do not leave before they do; wait until they depart, ensuring you see them off safely before leaving yourself.

Key Points & Insights
➡️ Memorizing names is a sign of attentiveness; if unsure, politely ask for the name again or default to a formal address like "Sir/Madam" instead of guessing incorrectly.
➡️ The primary focus of any business meal is the meeting/discussion, not the consumption of food; prioritize professional interaction over gluttony or logistics.
➡️ In business settings, minimize complexity: be prepared (know the menu, have your needs met), be timely, and do not try to take over service roles (like clearing plates).

📸 Video summarized with SummaryTube.com on Jan 12, 2026, 18:35 UTC