Visiting someone else’s office

Your role, when visiting someone else’s office, is that of a guest, whether it is within your company or without. Don’t walk in and settle down as if you were entering your own office. Here are some guidelines:

• Don’t be late. If you are, apologize and explain.
• When you tell the receptionist your name and mission, also present your business card if you have one.
• Ask where you can hang your coat, if you have one.
• In the office, wait to be told where to sit. If there are a number of chairs, ask which one you should use.
• Don’t remain standing if your host is seated.
• Don’t lay papers or documents on the desk or the floor.
• Put your briefcase or handbag on the floor beside you.
• Don’t fiddle with or touch anything on the desk.
• Leave promptly when your business is completed.
• Send a thank-you note for the meeting within 24 hours.

Try to make the thankyou note not look like a generic, one-size-fits-all product. Here’s an example of a good note:
Dear Helen: Thank you for making time yesterday to help me out with the Anderson projections. Your insights are very much appreciated. Best regards, Tom Walker.