To: Dr.
Joyce Eisel
From: Tales Silva
Date: 09th April, 2022
Class: Corporate Communication
Chapter 11 Review
1. What is the difference between ethics and etiquette?
The difference between ethics and etiquette is minimal in the workplace. Ethics professor
Douglas Chismar—and Harvard professor Stephen L. Carter before him—suggests that no
sharp distinction between ethics and etiquette exists. How we approach the seemingly trivial
events of work life reflect our character and attitudes when we handle larger issues. Our
conduct should be consistently ethical and professional. Professor Chismar believes that
treating others with respect and sensitivity is a daily imperativo.
2. Define the five traits and skills listed in the chapter that demonstrate professionalism.
a. Civility: Being respectful and considerate of others.
b. Polish: Making a favorable first impression and knowing how to shake hands, among
other things.
c. Business and dining etiquette: Presenting oneself well in interviews, on the job, over a
business meal, and so forth.
d. Social intelligence: Getting along with others and getting them to cooperate with you.
e. Soft skills: Personal qualities, habits, attitudes, communication skills, and other social
graces that enhance your
reputation.
3. Explain the advantages of face-to-face conversation over other communication channels.
Face-to-face conversation is the richest communication channel because speakers can use
voice and body language to make a point, convey warmth, and build rapport. In-person
conversations are less likely to lead to misunderstandings because conversation partners
can read feedback and make adjustments as needed. In conflict resolution, solutions can be
reached with fewer misunderstandings and better cooperation.
4. Name several business etiquette guidelines that promote positive workplace
conversations, in the office and at work-related social functions.
a. Use correct names and titles.
b. Choose appropriate topics.
c. Avoid negative remarks.
d. Listen to learn.
e. Give sincere and specific praise.
f. Act professionally in social situations
5. How can you ensure that your telephone calls on the job are productive? Name at least
six suggestions.
a. Plan a mini-agenda.
b. Use a three-point introduction.
c. Be brisk if you are rushed.
d. Be cheerful and accurate.
e. Be professional and courteous.
f. Bring it to a close.
g. Avoid telephone tag.
h. Leave complete voice mail messages.
6. List at least three guidelines that courteous cell phone users follow to avoid offending
others.
a. Show courtesy. Don’t force others to hear your business. Don’t make or receive calls in
public places. Don’t allow your
phone to ring in theaters, restaurants, classrooms, and meetings. Apologize for occasional
cell phone blunders.
b. Keep it down. Speak in low, conversational tones. Choose a professional ringtone and set
it on low or vibrate.
c. Step outside. If a call is urgent, take it outside to avoid being disruptive. Use caller ID to
screen incoming calls. Let voicemail take routine calls.
d. Drive now, talk and text later. Talking while driving increases accidents almost fourfold,
about the same as driving intoxicated. Texting while driving is even more dangerous.
7. What are some of the reasons for the popularity of workplace teams? List at least five.
Teams can have various purposes, but generally their popularity can be explained by the
following benefits of teamwork:
a. Better decisions
b. Faster responses
c. Increased productivity
d. Greater buy-in
e. Less resistance to change
f. Improved employee morale
g. Reduced risks
8. Name the four phases of team development as identified by psychologist B. A. Tuckman,
and explain what happens in each stage.
Phase 1 Forming:
a. Select members.
b. Become acquainted
c. Build trust
d. Form a collaborative culture
Phase 2: Storming
a) Identify problems
b) Collect and share information
c) Establish decision criteria
d) Prioritize goals.
Phase 3: Norming
a) Discuss alternatives
b) Evaluate outcomes
c) Apply criteria.
d) Prioritize alternatives
Phase 4: Performing
a) Select an alternative.
b) Analyze effects
c) Implement a plan.
d) Manage the project
9. What is the best approach to address conflict in meetings?
If two people clash, the best approach is to encourage each to make a complete case while
group members give their full attention. Let each one question the other. Then, the leader
should summarize what was said, and the participants should offer comments. The group
may modify a recommendation or suggest alternatives before reaching consensus on a
direction to follow
10. What techniques can make virtual meetings as effective as face-to-face meetings?
Effective virtual meeting techniques include the following:
a. Making sure all participants can use the technology
b. Establishing a uniform time, perhaps using Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)
c. Distributing necessary materials in advance
d. Explaining how questions may be asked and answered
e. Controlling background noise
f. Avoiding multitasking during the meeting
g. Giving examples and using precise language
h. Giving each participant time to speak