I was at a gym and wanted to use a seated bench. There are only two like it in the whole gym. One of the benches was being used. The other bench had a bag and other stuff on it belonging to a woman who was chatting nearby.
I asked the woman if she could please move her stuff so I could use the bench. She gave me an attitude. “Well, if you must use this one.” I explained there are only two benches like it and the other one was being used.
An older man, the person she was chatting with, chimed in and said that she was using the bench (since her stuff was on it).
I said, “I’m not sure if that’s the way it works here.”
I put my headphones back on and proceeded to use the bench as they muttered and ultimately walked away.
There is etiquette that is often connected to many activities. That is, general courtesy, rather than required behavior. Showing good etiquette expresses respect, consideration, and that you typically know what you’re doing.
Boxing, touching gloves before the bout. Golf, staying out of the backswing, letting others play through. Bowling, let the person next to you throw first. Pickleball, share courts, admit fouls. Restaurants, women order first. Leadership, praise in public, critique in private. Gym, allow others to work in, use lockers to store stuff.
Of course, in business networking settings, good etiquette ensures that your interactions are respectful, meaningful, and memorable for the right reasons.
Here are a few approaches that might be obvious to some, not so much to my new friends at the gym.
Be Genuine
People can sense when you’re only interested in what they can offer. Instead of leading with an agenda, show authentic interest in the person. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and look for common ground.
Respect Time
Whether you’re at a conference, a coffee meeting, or a virtual event, be mindful of time. Keep introductions concise, engaging, and avoid monopolizing the conversation. If you’re following up later, keep emails or messages brief and clear.
Genuinely Listen
Be engaged and interested. Ask questions about them. If online, camera is on, look into the camera, minimize multi-tasking, avoid driving and eating. Focus on learning, laughing, helping, giving, connecting, fun. Make them feel thankful for having met you. Unless you’re taking notes or doing research related to your conversation, stay off your phone.
Be All About the Give
Networking is a two-way street. Offer help, share a resource, or connect them with someone in your circle before requesting something in return. Generosity builds trust and rapport.
Mind Your Manners
A warm smile, a firm handshake (or appropriate greeting), and a polite tone go a long way. Don’t interrupt others, and always express appreciation—especially after someone shares their time or advice.
Follow Up Thoughtfully
Send a personalized message within 24–48 hours to thank them and reference something specific you discussed. If you promised to share a link or follow up on a topic, make sure to do so promptly. BTW, busy people get stuff done.
Etiquette, while networking or otherwise, isn’t about formal rules—it’s about respect, authenticity, and professionalism.
When you approach networking with these values in mind, you’re more likely to build relationships that are not just useful, but also meaningful and enduring.