BUSINESS ETIQUETTE –
Small Talk, Professional Manners and Confident Behaviour
Who greets whom? Why does everyone talk about the weather? And how do I find the right words in small talk? Many apprentices feel uncertain about professional behaviour in the workplace – from the first greeting to taking part in a meeting.
In this workshop, apprentices learn how to present themselves confidently and make a positive impression in everyday working life. They practise essential professional manners, small talk and body language and learn how to behave appropriately in different situations – whether speaking with supervisors, meeting customers or attending company events.
The aim is to build confidence and self-assurance in professional interactions.
CONTENT
- Basic workplace rules and professional behaviour
- First impressions: body language, greetings and introductions
- Small talk at work: suitable topics, occasions and dos and don’ts
- Specific aspects of communication by phone, email and video conference
- Typical situations: joining a new department, attending a first meeting and company events
- Sustainability and responsibility in everyday working life
- Recognising and avoiding common mistakes
- Practical exercises, role plays and feedback
How Does the Company Benefit?
Apprentices gain greater confidence in typical workplace situations. They learn how to behave appropriately, communicate professionally and respond to different expectations.
This supports a positive external image, reduces uncertainty and helps young people integrate more quickly into everyday working life.
What Makes This Workshop Different
The workshop deliberately focuses on everyday situations encountered during vocational training. Topics from the kick-off workshop are revisited, explored in greater depth and expanded.
Numerous practical examples and insights from working with apprentices, trainers and companies ensure a strong connection to everyday workplace practice.
What Apprentices Appreciate About This Workshop
Apprentices can practise typical situations directly, raise questions openly and receive immediate feedback.
Group activities, exercises and discussions create a positive learning environment and make the content easy to understand and apply.
International Perspective
Professional behaviour is influenced by cultural expectations, company traditions and local communication styles. The workshop can therefore be adapted to the country, organisation and cultural context of the participants.
For international groups, it can also include an introduction to common expectations in German companies and the German workplace.
Target Group
Apprentices and students in dual study programmes
Venue
At the company’s premises or at a conference or training centre
Format
- One-day workshop, approximately 8 training units, for example from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., including breaks.
- The ideal maximum group size is approximately 12 participants.
- The content, format and duration can be adapted to the organisation, target group and local context.