I was raised with the importance of “manners”.
They matter to me.
They should matter to everybody. But they are especially important for internal auditors.
Manners are how you show respect for others.
Manners help you build and maintain constructive relationships.
Manners help you get people to talk and to listen to you.
Manners show who you are.
When I meet people, they often launch straight into a conversation. I wait for them to stop and then say, “Hello” with a smile.
When you say “Hello”, you acknowledge them, show that they matter, and show them respect.
I say “Hello” with a smile to everybody, from the CEO to the janitor.
I say “Hello” and wait. They almost always say “Hello” back, usually with a smile, and we are off to a respectful sharing.
It starts to break down any barriers.
When I ask for something, I say “Please”.
When I get it, I say “Thank you”. I am sincere. I mean it. I thank them for taking the time to give me what I needed – even when I didn’t actually need it.
When I start or end a meeting with an executive (or a first-level junior analyst), I thank them for making the time to meet with me. I thank them for what they have shared with me.
When I am about to pass somebody in the office, I smile or otherwise acknowledge their existence, their…
