It’s dumbfounding, isn’t it? The sheer amount of people who lost their manners somehow along the way.

Or maybe they never had any to begin with.

Who knows?

All I know is one simple tip that will instantly set you apart from others: etiquette.

I’m often floored by the way I see fellow freelancers, clients and colleagues acting.

Surely, these people know basic manners and etiquette principles, right? I’d think most of us were taught them at a young age.

Yet, perhaps in today’s fast-paced environment (trying to give them the benefit of the doubt here), they’re just not taking the time to use them.

Whatever the case may be, there’s HUGE risk in breaking basic etiquette rules … risk in offending, irritating, even damaging one’s reputation if not also their relationships.

Showing a lack of consideration is not only rude, it’s not going to get you very far.

However, there’s an easy solution.

You can build better relationships with others by following basic etiquette guidelines, such as:

• Saying Please—when you ask someone for a favor. This is just common courtesy. If you ask for something, be respectful of the other person whether it be of their time, effort, or all of the above.

• Saying Thank You—when someone does something nice for you. This is an easy way to show someone that you’re grateful. If someone does something for you—even if just answering a question, show appreciation.

• Taking Responsibility—when you make a mistake. This one is hard for some but oh, so essential. If you drop the ball in any way, shape or form, it’s in your best interest to own up to it instead of making excuses.

• Saying I’m Sorry—when you mess up or hurt someone. This is how you can be mindful of others. If you do something negative (or don’t do something and it has a negative effect on others), show empathy and compassion.

• Showing Up on Time—to meetings, calls, events, etc. This is a simple professional standard. If you are going to be late or absent, be sure to offer consideration to others and let them know in as far advance as possible.

• Following Through on Commitments—when you say you’re going to do something. This one can make or break your career. If you’ve made any sort of commitment, be sure to follow through. And, if you can’t, let others know as soon as possible.

• Being Responsive—when someone’s expecting to hear from you. This isn’t just a generational thing; it’s happening with people of all ages. Make an effort to acknowledge someone’s communication someway, somehow, even if it’s to tell them you’re currently tied up and will get back to them soon.

Missing simple things such as consideration, respect and integrity (with others AND yourself) could very well sabotage your success as a solopreneur.

Why? Because people like to work with those whom they know, like and trust.

And if you set yourself up to be unlikable, untrustworthy, or even unreliable, you can pretty much guarantee you’re doing yourself a disservice.

So, do yourself a favor, instead, and stop breaking these basic etiquette rules.

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What else would you add to this list? Comment below.