top of page

3 Business Etiquette Rules in the Info Age


Let’s talk business etiquette for a moment. Not standard etiquette, but three of the more subtle behaviors that demonstrate professionalism in the Information Age (aka Digital Age, Computer Age, New Media Age). By now, everyone knows not to email or text IN ALL CAPS, but some of us may not realize we’re giving the perception of committing other faux pas. With a little bit of proactive explanation, we can correct that misperception.

When on a voice or video call, we may need to take notes. And how do we take notes? Likely by typing them, versus putting pen to paper. And what does the other party hear? Keystrokes. Consider providing a simple explanation when starting the call: “Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with me, Ms. Doe. I don’t want to lose any of the details of our conversation, so I’ve opened a word doc and you may hear me clicking away on my keyboard, taking notes. I don’t want you to think I’m distracted or doing anything other than focusing on our conversation. You have my full atten