Denver City Guide - Business Etiquette

Good business etiquette is essential in America and the most successful businesspeople are those who exhibit confidence, appear sincere and convey the impression that they are prepared to go beyond standard service. Standing up when greeting someone conveys respect, while a strong handshake, a friendly smile and establishing eye contact will confirm friendliness, honesty, confidence and professionalism. Appointments for meetings should be arranged in advance and times adhered to. Most meetings will start with an exchange of business cards and a little small talk before getting down to business.

Appearance matters and a business suit or pressed trousers, fresh shirt and neatly groomed hair is the order of the day. Even on ' dressing down days', when casual clothes are worn by everyone from the office junior to the managing director, it pays to ensure that the clothes are new, clean and smart. Normal business hours are 0800-1700 Monday to Friday. Entertaining clients is usually done over lunch, dinner or drinks after work, rather than at home.