Business Etiquette

Over the years, as I have navigated the world of business and engaged in countless discussions with potential investors and businesspeople, I have observed a troubling trend: the rise of rude, condescending, and unnecessarily hostile behaviour in professional correspondence. It is something that has both surprised and disappointed me in equal measure. While one might expect professionalism and mutual respect to form the cornerstone of business communication, there are still individuals who seem to relish in adopting a tone that is both discourteous and destructive.

Recently, I was reminded of this when a potential investor responded to an inquiry regarding a business opportunity with a sarcastic and disparaging reply. This type of correspondence is not only disheartening but completely unnecessary. While it’s perfectly acceptable for someone to decline interest in an opportunity or express reservations, the manner in which it is done makes all the difference. There is no place in business for those who feel the need to belittle or mock others, and it reflects a lack of maturity and professionalism that is unbefitting of anyone claiming to operate in the business world.

One of the core values I hold in business is respect, and that extends to all interactions, regardless of whether a deal is in the offing or not. We often speak of collaboration, partnerships, and innovation in business circles, but how can we hope to foster these ideals when basic decency is often overlooked? I made a decision over a decade ago: I refuse to do business with individuals who are rude, unprofessional, and lacking in basic manners. This decision was born out of many experiences where a simple exchange of ideas was met with hostility, not because the idea was flawed but because some individuals, for whatever reason, saw fit to respond with unnecessary aggression or derision.

It is crucial to recognise that this type of attitude is not only counterproductive but detrimental to the business ecosystem as a whole. Young entrepreneurs, especially, can find themselves discouraged by these types of interactions, which can stifle their creativity and passion. A single ill-mannered reply can crush the spirit of someone who is only just beginning their journey, leaving them disillusioned with an industry they may have once been eager to contribute to.

As experienced business leaders, we must lead by example and actively choose not to engage with those who lack the basic respect that is necessary in any professional relationship. By consciously deciding to no longer tolerate such behaviour, we send a clear message that professionalism and mutual respect are non-negotiable in business. While some might argue that business is ruthless by nature, I firmly disagree. Business should be competitive, yes, but there is no justification for unkindness or rudeness. It is entirely possible to be direct, decisive, and even critical without descending into pettiness or hostility.

It is up to all of us in the business community to set higher standards for how we interact with one another. A polite rejection or a respectful critique goes a long way and leaves the door open for future opportunities. On the other hand, a nasty or dismissive response does nothing but burn bridges and diminish the possibility of fruitful collaboration.

I believe that by fostering a culture of respect and professionalism in all our dealings, we can create an environment where innovation thrives and entrepreneurs feel encouraged rather than disheartened. We all have the responsibility to speak out against rudeness and poor behaviour when we encounter it. In doing so, we contribute to a business world that is not only more productive but also more humane.

Ultimately, my stance remains firm: I will not do business with those who conduct themselves with nastiness and poor manners. We should all strive to work with people who understand that decency and professionalism are not weaknesses, but the foundation upon which lasting success is built.

This article was originally posted on my blog at https://www.wesleybaker.com