Every business has its policies, which are usually clearly stated up-front. Then there are the less obvious etiquette "rules." But, it's just as vital to be clued in to what is — and isn't — considered appropriate. Here's how to avoid common corporate faux pas — and impress the hell out of your boss.

E-mail essentials: You should put as much time and effort into composing e-mail as you would snail mail. "E-mails are a more informal, impersonal way of communicating than letter writing, but there is still a proper format that should be followed," notes business etiquette expert Lydia Ramsey, author of Manners that Sell and founder of the etiquette Website mannersthatsell.com. "Make sure you proof your copy and the punctuation is correct, and never use all caps!" she warns.

According to Ramsey, you don't need the address on top but you do need the salutation. However, there's more emphasis on the closing. "Since you're not using letterhead, all contact information — title, phone and fax number, even the e-mail address — should come after the signature line," says Ramsey. "Whatever might be on your business card should follow your name."

Avoid cell phone static: Even if you have your phone on vibrate, never check to see who's calling when at a meeting or presentation. "Just looking at your phone to see who it is, is as impolite as answering the call," notes Ramsey.
 
It's also important to be aware of your vocal volume. "If you must have a personal conversation at work, keep it brief and keep it quiet," advises Ramsey. Also, be discreet. "Make sure the conversation doesn't get too personal."

Dress for success: What you should wear to work depends on your position and the industry you're in. "People do judge a book by its cover, so make a good impression," advises Ramsey. "Take your fashion cues from your colleagues — both at your level and above you — who are successful and well-respected." But, even if the dress code is casual, make sure you're well groomed and appropriate. In other words, save the micro-minis and cleavage shots for after
hours.

Keep distractions to a minimum: It's easy to forget that certain sounds or odors may be offensive or annoying to other people, so try to be conscious of your environment.

For example, leave the clanky jewelry at home. No one wants to be interruptedby the constant jangling of your bangle bracelets or drop earrings. Certain foods can be irritating, as well. While it's fine to grab a bite at your desk, try to stick to foods that aren't too, well, pungent. "Eat something others don't have to smell or hear," says Ramsey. Every time you bite into that potato chip you might ruin the concentration of your neighbor. If you can't resist smelly or noisy foods… take your lunch elsewhere.

Don't overstep boundaries: It's only natural that you'll become pals with some of your coworkers. But mixing business and pleasure can sometimes get a little complicated.

For starters, don't air your dirty laundry or gripe about work to anyone within earshot. If you must tell all to those with whom you have a bona fide friendship, share your private issues in private. And, be sure they're true friends and totally trustworthy before you open up. "Make friends before divulging, rather than divulging to become friends," says Ramsey.

And if you happen to be pals with someone who's above or below you on the corporate totem pole, don't forget where you stand when dealing with work issues. Even if you're best buds with your boss, "remember your position at work," warns Ramsey. "That line can become fuzzy; make sure you don't cross it."