Professionally Polite

It’s common for people to mistake professional politeness for kindness or even friendship. When interacting in any business setting, the person representing the business is paid to reveal only the parts of themselves that benefit you and them. This is true of work colleagues, business owners/representatives, or any other professional exchange.

Business owners and associates are paid to be polite.

True professionals maintain a polite demeanor regardless of their feelings toward another person. This is true whether it’s a colleague, client, or customer. This does not make the people in a professional setting dishonest or bad people. It makes them professionals who have signed up to comply with and uphold ethics in a professional environment.

One of the many standard ethical practices of professionalism is the daily refinement of not making business matters personal.

Business matters are never personal, no matter the justification. Understanding this allows one to stay focused on the key factors of any professional transaction, add value, and not be a problem that can slow or inhibit progress. When this reality is not recognized or accepted, it can result in complications. This can range from hurt feelings to unwelcome advances based on unrealistic internal expectations.

Understanding that professionals have a reason to be polite to everyone despite any personal feelings or opinions can alleviate awkward or even dangerous situations and misunderstandings.