5 Steps to a Professional Presence that Pays
Introduction Stuffy, boring, and unnatural are common adjectives used to describe etiquette. Myths about “old school” etiquette are quite common. Sure, part of etiquette includes the pomp and circumstance seen in movies where actors ever-so-gingerly partake in high tea while wearing white gloves. However, this concept is not helpful if you are unsure which fork to use while your boss or a client is watching. How about when you mistakenly drink from your interviewer's glass? A cherry tomato in the salad squirts on your date? The modern, relevant versions of social graces are essential to your personal and professional success. In this book, you will learn the simple tips and tools to help you present your very best self in any environment. Etiquette is derived from the French word ticket.
Etiquette is
your passport to wherever you want to go in life.
It provides
access to opportunities that were previously out of reach. Let’s think it this way.
Think of a time when you were not using your best manners. You probably did something that made someone else feel uncomfortable. Perhaps you forgot someone’s name during an introduction or failed to hold a door open for your date. Did you ultimately feel uncomfortable too? It’s very likely. By paying attention to the comfort of others, you too will feel more comfortable in almostin any situation.
1
Etiquette is the art of making others feel
5 Steps to a Professional Presence that Pays Don't
care
what
people think of you? Think again. A respectable personal brand is the key to opening doors to a world of opportunities. Crafting your brand takes commitment, but it's not difficult. Why? Because you already possess everything you need to look and feel like a pro. Make proper etiquette part of your lifestyle, and you’ll shine in any situation. It is commonly thought that a habit is formed in 21 days. Repetition is the key. By making it part of your daily habits, etiquette eventually becomes second nature and you will make it look easy. Little things make a big difference. We are judged by potential employers, clients, business partners and even life partners based on how we present ourselves. Here is an example. In business, many of your competitors will prepare for that big business lunch meeting by researching data. But you go the extra mile by not only researching data, you also brush up on your dining skills. Fast forward to luncheon. While your competitor is overwhelmed and distracted from the topic at hand because he's stumped about which fork to use, you are sharp and on target. You haven’t given dining protocol a second thought because it's second nature. Who has the advantage in that scenario?
I will highlight ways to polish your presentation, without losing the essence of who you are.
Appearance (Quick Tips, Dress for the Job You Want)
01 2 STEP 3: Communication Cell Phones
05 37 23 24 34 32 35 36 40 20 15 11 10
5 Steps to a Professional Presence that Pays
Posture and Body Language Handshake Speech
CONTENTS Introduction
What Do You Want the World to Know?
Mindset: From the Inside Out Social Media Can Get You Hired or Fired (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn)
Managing Your Brand (Google Search, Buying Your Name)
3
5 Steps to a Professional Presence that Pays
STEP 1:
Craft Your Brand
STEP 2: Polished Professional Presence
Voicemail Business Emails
4
44
Thank You Notes Office Protocol Business Card
47 48 50 Ordering
STEP 5: Dining with Dignity Eating
62 51
Conversation Don’ts
70 73 75 77 Invitation Arrival The Meal Formal Table Setting
Suggested About the Author Reading
79 80
63 64 66 68 Networking Events
56 Introduction
STEP 4: Master The Art of Networking
Important Exception
59 61
Mindset: From the Inside Out
It is important to go above and beyond to add value whenever possible. With this in mind, in addition to the 5 steps that will give you the competitive advantage, I will show you how your positive mindset makes the difference. Let’s be honest—we assess people based
on
first
impressions.
Appearance is a large part of an impression. The way that we choose to present ourselves says a great deal to others about who we are and where we are going. Biologically, we
Studies show that within 7 seconds, the human brain runs an audit of thousands of scenarios and checklists to determine who you are.
are predisposed to quickly gauge determine whether a person means us harm or comes in peace. After our initial assessment, we look to see if the person is
pleasant, rude, or sincere. This ultimately determines their likability. Note: People do business with and give opportunities to people they like and trust. Granted, the results of this assessment are not always accurate.
We have all had the unfortunate instance where we just ran out for a minute to pick something up from the store while not looking our best. Inevitably, we run into someone that we’d prefer not see us in such a state. Or maybe you were meeting someone for the first time with a miserable cold.
When you aren’t feeling or
looking your best, it is hard to appear confident and composed. While hopefully the last scenarios are infrequent, we have a great deal of influence on others’ first impressions of us. Believe it or not, 93% of our first impression is non-verbal, which means how you are dressed, your body language, your facial expressions, your handshake, and your attitude are major factors in how others perceive you. It is difficult to carry yourself as someone who is pleasant and positive when you are in a negative mindset. So, let’s begin working from the inside out. Your mental attitude is critical not only to your outward appearance, but also your health, happiness, peace and even wealth. Yes, your thoughts are that powerful. Positive and negative energies are also contagious. For example have you ever met someone who seemed happy
and at peace with themselves? People like this light up a room. They seem magnetic; others are simply drawn to them. Think of a time when you were in a situation where you felt completely positive and in control. Conversely, there are those who seem to have a dark cloud that follows them everywhere. They drain the energy out the people around them. They are consistently “unlucky.� Inherently, we have different feelings about these two types of individuals. We manage
our
relationships
accordingly,
many
times
unconsciously. In your life you will encounter people who complain constantly or who seem to bring on the problems they wish they did not have.
Pay attention to their behaviors and
avoid doing what they do! Create new habits and behaviors that keep you on the right track. If you are not in the optimal headspace, do not worry! I will teach you a few simple tools to help fine-tune your mindset.
1.
Remember
that
you
are
enough
Many times fear and a lack of confidence lead to negative self-talk. You know, those things we say to ourselves like, “I’m not qualified to be here.” Or, “I don’t belong.” Be assured,
you
are
well-qualified
to
handle
whatever
situation life presents. Sure, you may initially feel a bit out of your league if you are surrounded with executives with high-profile titles on their business cards or individuals who
are
well-known
and
respected.
But
we
must
remember, they are people just like you. At some point, most of them were just getting started just as you are. In many cases, they are looking to assist young bright individuals to in their journey to success. It’s your time to shine. New mindset: “I absolutely deserve to be here. I was made just for this.”
2.
You have the ability to control your
thoughts
Often, it can feel as if you are simply a player on the bench versus the coach in control. We have to realize that we hold the reins, and we are in control. You may be
thinking, “You mean to tell me that I am in control of my mind and thoughts? No way!” Actually, yes! Old mindset: “Life just happens, there is nothing I can do about it.” New mindset: “I have the power to control what and where I focus my attention, and my thoughts will follow.”
3.
Speak
positively
Just changing a few words makes a complete difference in the tone and meaning of what you say. Words are powerful. There are ways that we can speak and think that encourage creativity and solutions. Keep in mind that many times a statement leaves little room for possibility whereas asking a question leaves the door open for opportunity. Old mindset: “I don’t know how I am going to make this work.” Or, “This won’t work.” New mindset: “How can I make this work?” Notice how the open-ended question opens the door for opportunity and possibility.
STEP 1 Crafting Your Brand
When you leave the room, do people remember your brand?
What Do You Want the World to Know? Branding is key. Although it may seem trivial to think about your personal brand, it's a step toward taking your life into your hands. Think of people who have done a great job branding themselves. From Oprah Winfrey to Bill Gates and Bon Jovi, Martha Stewart to Jay Z, these people are branding masters. What do you want people to think when they hear your name? Responsible, Philanthropist, Accountant, Mother, World-renowned Chef, Honor Student, Integrity, or...what else?
People often say it is not about what you know but who you know. Really, it is not only about who you know, but who knows you and why.
While developing your personal and professional brands, think
of WHY people remember you. Is it because you are: Considered a leader who is always dressed appropriately for the occasion. A person who is punctual, articulate and always ready for a challenge? How about that person who is always dressed in the latest trends (whether appropriate for the occasion or not), who arrives to meetings and class fashionably late, regularly complains and is ready to spill the latest gossip. Your brand is what people say about you when you leave the room. But be clear, it’s a solid personal and professional brand that gets you invited into the room. Your ticket. Your brand can provide provides a seat at the table. We cannot control everything people say or think about us, but we need to shape what aspects we can, not leaving it to chance. If you don’t take personal and professional branding seriously, you will be at the mercy of others to shape it for you.
One of my mentors says, If you do not tell people who you are, they are going to make something up. Take a few minutes and think about the brand you have or the one you want to create. Use the space below to jot down some of your thoughts:
Don’t leave your fate in someone else’s hands. Keep in mind that everyone is not going to get it. There are some people who may not celebrate your greatness. That is ok. Just do your part, the overwhelming majority will support you.
In this lesson, we will cover the important aspects of developing your personal and professional brand. In theory, your branding can be accessed 24/7 by the entire world via the internet. Let’s look at ways to craft your online image. Craft your image to work in your favor. Crafting your image should be:
Intentional Act and think with the end goal in mind.
Strategic
Each action must be planned for a specific purpose.
Creative Dare to be different.
Smart Think
before
you act, post, or chat. Take a few minutes and think about the brand you have or the one you want to create. Believe it or not, you are evaluated based on your associations. What does that mean? It is common thought that you are going in the same direction in life as the people you select as friends, business partners, etc. There is an old adage that says “If you are the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room.� It is important to surround yourself with people who are positive and up-building. Of course, we have friends that are similar to us in age and experience. However, it is just as important to surround yourselves with people who already have made it to where you are trying to go. These people have the wisdom, knowledge, and experience to help you avoid some of the obstacles they have faced on their way to success by way of becoming a potential mentor to you. They are able to open doors because they know the right people and right organizations with whom to associate. Keep your circle diverse in culture and age etc.
One of the most important aspects of branding is name recognition. The best part of modern branding is you are able to create the image you want others to see through social media and the Internet. Let’s look at ways to create and monitor your brand.
Social Media Can Get You Hired or Fired
Careerbuilder.com says 43% of hiring managers have come across subject matter (usually provocative photos or posts about drinking or drug usage) that has dissuaded them from pursuing a potential candidate. Your online presence should mimic how you would look or act at a career fair. If you would not use profane language at career day or a board meeting, do not display that behavior online. If you wouldn’t show up to an interview with a beer in hand, don’t post photos on social media showing you in that light. Conversely, think about posting
photos and information related you volunteering, exercising, or doing other healthy, positive activities. Prospective employers, scholarship committees, and schools now commonly do a web search on your name and check your social media profiles such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to learn more about you before extending an invitation to interview. Remember that private accounts are not necessarily private and delete does not necessarily mean deleted. Privacy settings on accounts do not ensure privacy! There have been many cases of private info becoming very public. Your socalled friends online can easily snag photos, tweets, or other material from your sites and share them within seconds with their entire network, who can then share with their network and so on. Delete does not necessarily mean deleted. While you may no longer have immediate access to the email, data, photo, etc. that info is still floating out in cyberspace and it can show up again at the most inopportune time, such as when you have decided to apply for a new job or scholarship, run for public office, or go for that big promotion. Be mindful of the statuses and pictures that you post. Monitor the pictures that you are tagged in and even the comments that your friends post on your wall. They are a reflection of you, even though you didn’t post them. Never post a negative status about your school, job or coworkers. Many opportunities have been lost that way. Ask yourself whether you would want your
boss, family, or spiritual leader to see that material? If not, don’t post it. The same idea holds true for tweets, re-tweets, and pictures on Instagram! They show up on web searches. If you don’t believe me, choose a search engine and see what comes up. The www means World Wide Web! Always consider whether the image or post is something you want the world to see for years to come. In this lesson, we will cover the common mistakes and the importance of controlling your brand on social media.
Facebook •
Be mindful of your statuses and pictures that you post.
•
Monitor and
check your privacy settings often.
•
Watch the
pictures that you
With every decision you make while on social media, ask yourself if it is good for your brand both now and in the future.
are tagged in and even the memes, photos and comments that your friends post on your wall. They are a reflection of you, even though you didn’t post them.
•
Photos should be responsible and respectable.
Remember these photos may show up in a web search.
•
Never post a negative status about your job or
coworkers. Many jobs have been lost that way. Before posting, ask yourself: “Would I want my current or future boss to see this?”
•
Avoid posting the name of your employer. Some
companies would prefer to have a more discreet brand or have hired a public relations firm to shape their online brand. Here is another thing to consider, it might be dangerous to let strangers know where you work.
•
Monitor the apps, movies, and artists you support.
•
Avoid posts that are racist, sexist, and discriminatory
in any way. Companies must also protect their brands and will not want to affiliate with anyone who might tarnish their company brand. For greatest impact: Keep posts short and add photos in order to increase views. Also when you are making meaningful posts photos can provide added significance.
Twitter •
Every time you tweet, you are potentially reaching over
500 million active users. This platform allows you to reach audience faster than Facebook. And enables people to search for your profile with ease.
•
There have been recent incidents in the news where
people have thought their tweets were innocent, but were interpreted differently by the general public. One hundred forty characters may not be enough for you to fully explain
yourself. If you are hesitant regarding the nature of your tweet or how it could be construed, err on the side of caution and don’t post it.
Tips: Create a profile and biography including keywords that define your skillset and goals
•
Be active. Engage your followers.
•
Make sure your presence is known so you can make an impact.
•
Follow your followers.
LinkedIn There are over 135 million members in over 200 countries on LinkedIn. This is most likely the place that will get you noticed and help you land a job. This is a great tool to use to market yourself in business. Keep in mind this site is for business only. Posts and photos should always be professional.
•
Complete all the fields on your profile.
•
Use your LinkedIn search feature.
•
Use what you already have: link blogs and websites to
your profile if they are business-oriented.
•
Keep all content business related.
•
The longer you have your profile active, the more
contacts you will have and the easier it will be to secure a desired position.
•
Ask your mentors and colleagues to write
recommendations for you so potential employers can see you from another perspective.
Managing Your Brand
Internet Search It is important for you to know what people learn about you when they search your name on the Internet. Potential employers will often start here before you are even offered an interview. You should Google your own name weekly. If that is not feasible, search your name twice per month.
One way to monitor what the internet says about you is to sign up for a service that provides alerts. You can create an alert based on certain keywords, including your name and city. You will then receive alert anytime there is a new entry on the web containing those keywords.
Own Your Name Name recognition is important. You can buy your name and have a domain that includes your name. There is nothing stopping you from purchasing “yourname.com.” from a site like Godaddy.com, which is one of the most trusted and affordable sources for domains. You may find promotional deals for as little as 99 cents! Often you can find offers for approximately $9.99. The ten dollars is worth your brand. Creating a website can be simple. Try sites like http://www.wordpress.com, http://www.wix.com and http://www.weebly.com. If you go to www.narethahopson.com, you will find my website. Here I am able to shape what others learn about me. Also, this is likely the first result that will pop up in a Google search for my name. On your website, you can include personal hobbies and interests, showing a personal side (Err on the side of caution here. Do not get too personal—avoid being heavy handed about hobbies, pets, or other obsessions). You can also include a professional looking picture on your website. Consider using a school picture or professional headshot, if you have one.
Be sure to wear attire you might wear to work. Ladies, be sure to wear a top that is not too revealing; for example, wearing a strapless top or dress can make you appear naked in a photo. Gentlemen, unkempt facial hair, hats with logos or expressions, or otherwise overly casual attire may send the wrong message. A selfie will not be your best option. Once you purchase your domain name, you create more opportunities to stamp your brand. You can personalize your email address with your domain following the “@� sign. For example, my email address on a resume could be naretha@narethahopson.com. To employers this says you are serious about your brand and understand the importance of details.
STEP 2 Professional Presence that Pays So you are probably asking, “What in the world does this have to do with etiquette?� Plenty. If you know who you are and where you are going, upgrading your skills is the natural next step to getting there.
There are four aspects of an impression that get you noticed, whether it is for an interview, everyday office protocol, or even social events:
1.
Appearance
2.
Posture & Body Language
3.
Handshake
Appearance
People make judgments on appearances. It's important to present yourself as a seasoned professional, even if you are new to the working world. Looking professional does not mean that you have to lose all sense of your personal style. It is simply about making a decision to remain appropriate and polished at all times. Here are a few reminders, which may seem obvious but are commonly forgotten:
First Impressions
•
Y
ou are never given a second chance to make a first impression.
•
Within the seconds, based on appearance alone, you
are judged on your level of education, sophistication, success, trustworthiness, reliability, honesty, compassion, and confidence.
General Appearance Tips
•
Neatness counts. Never wear overly tight, revealing,
wrinkled, ill-fitting clothing to an interview or in your place of work.
•
High-quality, tailored business suits are always
appropriate for both men and women.
•
Always bathe and brush your teeth and tongue. You
never want a person to smell you before they see you. Use a good-quality bath soap and deodorant.
•
Avoid wearing too much perfume or cologne. Some
people have allergic reactions to certain fragrances. The last thing you want to do is offend an interviewer, boss, or colleague with overpowering fragrance. If they suffer from headaches or nausea because of your scent, they will likely
avoid you at all costs.
•
Cover any tattoos. Let’s also discuss tattoo placement.
Seriously consider your future when making a decision on where to get that next tattoo. Avoid highly visible areas such as hands, arms, chest, neck, face, lower legs and feet. Think of yourself at 60 years old, and whether you will still want that message and marking on your body.
•
Limit visible piercings to one in each earlobe (ladies
only). Gentleman, remove all piercings including those in the ear. The trend of inserting ear gauges may be intriguing to you, but think about whether you will want to have large holes in your ears when you are 30, 40, or 50years old. They are not professional in appearance and cannot easily be covered.
Be sure your hair is clean and well-groomed.
Avoid spiky, wild, trendy styles or unnatural colors. This includes cutting designs in hair. Should you find yourself employed in an artistic environment where more flair is acceptable or even appreciated, you can make that decision then; however, most offices have explicit policies regarding what is acceptable.
Make sure your shoes are other accessories
are clean and polished.
Women’s Wardrobe Essentials
Keep your makeup minimal and natural-looking.
Eyes
ďƒ˜ * Lips
Avoid unnatural looking false eyelashes. Also save glitter and sparkles in lipstick and eye shadow for evening looks.
Nails
ďƒ˜ *
Lipstick and lip gloss is better in neutral or nude shades. Avoid high shine lip gloss. Save the red lip and other more dramatic looks for outside of the business environment.
Natural looking nails and nail polish are always appropriate. French and American manicures are acceptable. Avoid designs on nails, including nail art and different colored polish on each finger. Keep fingernail length to a minimum. Extremely long nails are not professional, even with a French manicure. Chipped nails look unkempt and send the wrong message. Keep nail polish remover nearby. A natural nail with no polish is far more appealing than chipped nail polish.
ďƒ˜ * Accessories
Accessories should be kept to a minimum. They should not be a distraction from what you are saying. A rule of thumb is to keep them at a count of 5. Each earring counts individually. Limit rings to one on each hand.
Earrings should be posts (not dangles or large hoops). Pearls are always a safe choice. Wearing a quality watch says that you are timely. Avoid bracelets and earrings that make noise as you move. Large diamonds or rhinestones are better suited for evening. Again, multiple piercings and ear gauges are not professional.
Season Appropriate
*
* Dress Up Dress for the season. Open toed shoes (which are a no-no in business anyway) in a snow storm? Think again. You will likely send a message that you may lack common sense. Yes, people really do take note if you are out of season with your attire.
Dress for the job you want in the future, not only for the job you have now. As a rule of thumb, dress at least one level up. What this means, is take notes from the person who is in the position higher than yours, such as your boss. Maybe even take cues from your boss’s boss. Emulate their style. You will stand out and always look like you are ready for any opportunity presented. Make sure that you don’t go overboard. Your attire should remain appropriate for your position. Wearing a full suit when the company culture is casual can send a message that
you are overly ambitious.
Skirts
*
If you are wearing a skirt, don’t skip the sit test. Skirts should not be more than 1 inch above your knee when standing and no more that 2 inches above the knee sitting. Ladies, we know that there are times when skirts are perfect when we try them on standing, but they rise tremendously when we sit down, showing a lot more than is appropriate for the workplace. Remember, it is your intelligence and capability on display in business. Nothing else. It is recommended that you try on any skirt that you are planning to wear preferably a day or two prior to wearing. Sit in a chair in front of a mirror and notice what you see in the refection. Is there a gap under you skirt? Showing too much thigh? By planning ahead, you are less likely to be in a situation where your clothes are ill fitted. Tugging on your skirt to pull it down all day is distracting and can send a message that you are less than confident. Wrap skirts, which are held together my merely a few buttons, often gape open when you are sitting down, and they can blow open when you are outside. Also keep in mind that pants and skirts that are too tight where you can see all of your ahem…curves leaving nothing to the imagination are note the best choice in business. Remember it’s about the brains not the booty. Yes, I said it.
Note: Its better to cross your legs at the ankle
instead of at the knee, especially when wearing a skirt.
Undergarments
*
Wear properly fitting undergarments. If they are too tight, we can likely see it on the outside of your clothes. The idea is to have smooth lines. Avoid bra lines, panty lines, muffin tops and the like by wearing a “shaper” under your clothing. They now come in many styles, so there is something for everyone. Be sure that your shape wear does not appear from your skirt or dress when you sit down.
Men’s Wardrobe Essentials
Great minds like Albert Einstein and Steve Jobs dressed the same every day, almost like having a uniform. While you may have little interest in following their lead, I would certainly suggest that to pause for a moment to realize the value in consistency, particularly in branding.
•
White clean, crisp collared dress shirt with either buttons or French cuffs - Having five in your wardrobe ensures that you will always have something appropriate to wear for most occasions.
•
Navy Blue Suit - Navy is a power color in business. Fit matters.
•
Black Suit or Grey Suit – Subtle pinstripes or other conservative patterns are acceptable.
•
Khaki Slacks - Make sure you iron your slacks or take them to the dry cleaners to ensure they are pressed and polished.
•
Polo style shirts- Not only for the golf outing but perfect for casual Fridays at the office, polo style shirts are increasingly common place in the office. As with your other clothing, be sure to iron or dry clean your shirts so they are crisp and professional-looking.
•
Everything must be immaculate. Do not wear clothing with stains, tears, or missing buttons. Be sure your button-down shirts fit you correctly. There should be no strain on the buttons when you are seated.
•
A quality watch is a good idea. It shows that you are
timely.
•
Shoes should match the rest of your outfit in look and style. Gym shoes with a suit or even khakis and a dress shirt don’t work, nor do boat shoes and a suit. The same way that dress shoes don’t work with ultra casual wear. No matter what shoe you wear, they should always be clean, polished and in good repair.
How to Tie a Tie
Posture and Body Language
Don't underestimate the importance of your posture and subtle movements. Studies have shown that more than 55 percent of communication is received from body language. Below are tips to ensure your posture and body language are perceived as welcoming, positive, and inviting: •
Stand and sit straight and tall with your shoulders back, while keeping your head up. This displays confidence.
•
Avoid fidgeting, even if you are nervous. Constantly touching your hair or jewelry and rapid tapping of your
hands of feet are clear indicators that a person is nervous or unsettled. •
Maintain eye contact. If making direct eye contact makes you uncomfortable, look at the bridge of his or her nose instead. It looks like you are still making eye contact, but might be less distracting. Maintaining eye contact is not the same as staring, which makes people extremely uncomfortable. Be sure to move your head and eyes to ensure you are not boring holes into the person to whom you are speaking.
•
Maintain a pleasant facial expression at all times. If you are asked to perform a task that you do not like, smile and do it anyway. Complete the task and then ask if there is anything else you can do, with a smile.
•
In meetings, choose a seat that is near your manager or your peers. Do not sit far away from others, which can denote a lack of engagement. Come prepared with a notebook and pen or your computer so you can take notes. Sit up straight and keep your hands on the table or on your lap. Do not cross your arms or slouch.
•
Avoid rolling your eyes, mumbling under your breath or expressing your negative thoughts about the situation.
•
Steer clear from office gossip and negative talk. Do not listen! Do NOT repeat what you may have heard! Just know, if people will gossip about others, they will gossip about you.
•
Show respect at all times.
•
Maintain an "Attitude of Gratitude.”
Handshake
Remember, you are judged immediately based on how you look, how you speak, and believe it or not, your handshake. The handshake is traditionally the only acceptable form of physical contact in business situations. Your grip speaks volumes.
•
Extend your right hand and step forward with your
right foot.
•
Grip your partners hand palm to palm and web to web.
•
Shake with a medium-firm grip to convey confidence
and authority. If you offer a limp grip and your partner will think you are hesitant or lack confidence. If you give an ultra tight, bone-crunching grip and you appear overly enthusiastic or domineering (and it hurts!).
•
Shake 1-3 times from the elbow. It is not necessary to
continue to shake hands throughout the entire introduction.
•
Avoid sweaty palms. If moist palms are a real issue for
you, consider spraying them with an antiperspirant before leaving home. A traditional handshake, not a fist bump or a high-five, will be expected from you beyond the interview or introduction stage.
Speech
•
Speak clearly. If you tend to speak softly, practice
projecting your voice. If you tend to be on the louder side, practice bringing the volume down. It is important, especially in meetings or group interviews, that you are easily heard and understood.
•
Avoid gum. A small mint is acceptable but avoid
crunching or sucking. The mint should be completely out of sight.
•
Avoid loud talking and laughing.
•
Slang is not appropriate. Even if your colleagues or
boss uses profanity or slang, do not follow suit.
STEP 3 Business Etiquette There are general rules of professionalism you should follow in any business environment: not only in-person, but also through electronic communication and networking events. This chapter will provide quick and easy guidelines about general professional behavior.
Cell Phones
1.
Be aware of who is calling. In some cases, your first impression is provided through your tone or voice or background noise when you answer a call. If the call is important, but you are in a noisy place (such as an airport), ask the caller if you can call them back from a better location. Or let the call go the voicemail and return the call when you are more prepared.
2.
A quality voicemail greeting is key. Clear and concise is
best.
3.
Avoid ring back tones. If someone calls you for business, they do not want to hear the latest song from your favorite artist while the phone rings. It is completely unprofessional and can cost you an opportunity. You will find it rather embarrassing if your phone clucks like a chicken during an important meeting in which you have forgotten to turn off your phone.
4.
Before you arrive at the office, an interview, or meeting: silence your ringer or, better yet, turn the phone off. Do not put your phone on vibrate. Your phone vibrating in your pocket or purse is often still quite audible and distracting.
5.
Keep your cell phone out of sight. It does not belong on your desk or the boardroom or dinner table. This does not make you look important. Instead, you may actually appear distracted, unprofessional, and rude. Taking notes on your cell phone in meetings can be mistaken for texting. Bring pen and notepads to meetings unless company culture dictates otherwise. Many companies now allow employees to use tablets or iPads, but be sure to use those electronics only in professional ways. If you are pretending to take notes on your tablet, but are actually playing a video game or scanning Facebook, someone will notice.
6.
A Bluetooth headset is for the car or home only. Wearing a Bluetooth earpiece in the office or anywhere else is highly unprofessional.
Voicemail
1.
Your voicemail greeting says a lot about you as a professional. It is a direct reflection of you as an individual. Handle this greeting with as much importance as you would a face-to-face greeting.
2.
Make your message crisp, clear, and professional.
3.
Keep the message short.
4.
Avoid songs and background noise.
5.
State your first and last name.
Below is an example of a professional voicemail greeting:
Hello, you have reached ____ (first and last name) _____. I am unavailable to receive your call at this time. Please leave your name, telephone number and a brief message. I will return your call as soon as time permits. Thank you.
6 Steps to leaving professional voicemail messages for others:
1.
Think. Plan what you are going to say. Write it down. Summarize in about 2 sentences.
2.
Introduce Yourself. Begin with “Hello, my name is ________. State your title if you have one. Help them remember where you met or tell them who referred you.
3.
Leave a specific request. Let the receiver know the reason that you are calling and what you are asking of them. If you leave a vague message, chances high that your call will not be returned or view as a lower priority.
4.
Speak slowly and clearly. There is no point in leaving a message that the receiver cannot understand. Sit up straight or stand as if you are speaking with the person face-to-face. Hold the phone with your hand, not your shoulder. Avoid using a headset, the reception may not be clear. Take your time and be sure to get your point across. Keep in mind that most voicemail systems give one to two minutes to record.
5.
End professionally. Be sure to end with, “Again, my name is ______. My phone number is (xxx) xxx-xxxx. I look forward to connecting with you soon.” Repeat your phone number slowly and clearly. They will likely it write down in order to return your call.
6.
Practice, practice, practice! If making a positive lasting impression is key, then it is worth your time practice. Rehearse the script located below. Then call your voicemail, or a friend’s and leave your message. You can evaluate your message during the playback.
Hello, my name is ____ (first & last name) _____(state your title if applicable). I am reaching out because_________(be specific). Again, this is ______. My phone number is (xxx) xxx-xxxx. That is (xxx) xxx-xxxx. I look forward to connecting with you soon.
Business Emails
Your email address should be a variation of your real name, not a username or nickname. Avoid periods, hyphens, or underscores. An option is johndoe@gmail.com or john.doe@yahoo.com. There is an option to take this to the next level, a personalized email address. Try john@johndoe.com. Doesn’t this look far more professional? You can create your own personalized email address by using services like godaddy.com. Many times, they offer a free personalized email address with domain purchase. If you have difficulty setting up the email address. Call customer support. They will walk you through the process.
Never use an unprofessional email address. You will not be taken seriously. Consider these two email addresses: wild_man_joe1984@gmail.com or john@johndoe.com Who seems more responsible and professional? Who would you invite in for an interview? My guess is that your answer was not Wild Man Joe.
Sending Email 1.
Respond within 24 hours - This says you are
accessible and serious about the task at hand. Also sends the message that you respect the sender.
2.
Use proper English – no slang or emoticons;
avoid “lol” or smiley faces.
3.
Remember to use spell check and then
proofread again.
4.
Include your contact information in the
signature line.
5.
Keep emails short and concise – A couple
paragraphs or few sentences should suffice. The shorter the email, the more likely that the recipient will read and respond.
6.
Avoid all using caps or red fonts, which are
often interpreted as having an angry intent. Both are construed as screaming the written word.
Example business email
Mary Beth,
Thank you for sending the status report for the Wilson project. It appears everything is going smoothly.
As a next step, will you please forward the estimates from our vendors by Friday, September 14?
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Again, I appreciate your timely submission of your report.
Sincerely,
Francis Miller Senior Pricing Analyst Fox and Miller, LLP
Thank You Notes Most people do not use this form of communication anymore. This is still a vital part of networking and communication.
1.
Send after an interview
2.
Send to someone who refers you
3.
Must be handwritten
4.
Ensure the outer envelope is properly
addressed
5.
Must be sent by mail
Office Protocol
1.
Do not eat at your desk unless you are specifically given permission.
2.
Avoid foods that have strong or offensive odors, such as tuna salad or popcorn.
3.
Avoid chips/snacks as they can stain your fingers and they are loud when you eat them. Greasy snacks can leave marks on important papers. Keep your work and your food completely separate.
4.
Build relationships with everyone, not just people who look like you or outrank you. Find something that you both have in common and start a conversation. Failure to do so is a lost opportunity.
5.
Many offices have a no smoking policy; however, if your office has a smoking area and you must smoke, limit your breaks to no more than two per day. The
smoking area is not a place to swap office gossip. Excessive smoking breaks will send the message that you are not a dedicated worker.
6.
Greet people, even if you do not know them. Hold open doors; help someone who is carrying a large box or pile of papers. People will notice how helpful and friendly you are.
7.
Clean up after yourself in the office break room. Do not leave the sink, microwave, or coffee area a disaster after you’ve been there. Do your own dishes. If you pour yourself the last of the coffee, take the initiative to make another pot.
8.
Find a problem and present a solution.
Business Cards
Business cards are important. You may use websites like vistaprint.com or use a template on Microsoft and print them yourself.
1.
You should have one, even if you do not have a job.
2.
Some colleges and universities may provide them for students.
3.
Include your contact information, including your email address and telephone number.
4.
Ensure your business card is easy to read. Do not try to cram excessive information onto a small business card.
5.
Brief and accessible.
STEP 4 The Art of Networking Networking is not an event, it’s a lifestyle. Have a goal. Your number one goal should be to add value. Building a network begins with cultivating mutually beneficial relationships. If you haven’t given anything, you have not earned the right to ask.
Networking is the art of building relationships. Everything we have discussed has been essential in building relationships, starting with etiquette, the art of making others feel comfortable. See the connection? We learn to make others feel comfortable so we can
Generally, we think about networking as a face-to-face event, but it can also be online. We have to learn to build relationships in both ways. Your goal in networking is to show that you add value based on how you build relationships and create opportunities. If you are able to master this skill, opportunities will fall into your lap. Keep these tips in mind, whether networking online or in person.
•
The first step is crafting your brand. People will want to get to know you if you have a well-crafted brand.
•
Have purpose. Ask yourself, “Why am I here? Why am I reaching out to this person?” With a goal in mind, you are much more likely to be productive with your time.
•
Create relationships with everyone regardless of rank and position. Keep your network diverse.
•
Prepare a 30 second elevator speech. Be able to clearly and concisely tell others who you are and why they want to continue speaking with you.
•
Talk a little but say a lot. Be clear and concise whenever you reach out to others.
•
Pass out business cards strategically. With that in mind, do not use your employer-provided business cards for the free lunch raffle at the local restaurant. Use your personal business cards instead.
•
Have sincere intentions, which should be to add value to other people first.
•
Follow up early and often.
•
Follow up on referrals.
•
Do your research. Do a web search on the person and/or company you are interviewing with or would like an interview with at career fairs.
In Lesson One, we talked about mindset. When networking, focus on what you do have to offer, not what you can get. What do you have to offer?
•
Make book suggestions and send articles to people you want to connect with or are connected to.
•
Make connections. Find other people that can connect and put them in contact with each other.
•
Show genuine interest.
•
Provide solutions. A person who has solutions to others’ problems (large or small) is always welcomed; in fact, they are often sought after.
•
If you think it is acceptable to constantly solicit others time and talent without giving something in return, think again. You may not be able to offer jobs or money, but you do have time. Considering volunteering for conferences they host, spending time with a charitable organization they hold close to their heart, sending short emails with articles they may find interesting. Believe it or not, you may have a contact in your network who would benefit from meeting them or vise versa.
Whenever possible, be the connector.
•
Remember and acknowledge significant dates, especially birthdays. Small, appropriate gifts such as a book or personalized golf balls (if they golf) are nice tokens of appreciation or acknowledgment. Follow up with hand-written thank you notes after they do something thoughtful.
• •
Listen You were created with two ears and one mouth for a reason. Everyone is tuned into WIIFM.
What’s In It For Me??
If you spend the majority of the time talking, you won’t have a chance to listen. It is important to ask the person you want to get to know open-ended questions about themselves. If you are actively listening, you will hear what interests them. You can then tailor your conversation to add value. Even if what you have to say is awesome, if the person you’re talking to isn’t interested, the conversation is not going very far. •
•
Open-ended questions as defined by An open-ended question is designed to encourage a full, meaningful answer using the subject's own knowledge and/or feelings. It is the opposite of a closed-ended question, which encourages a short or single-word answer. Openended questions also tend to be more objective and less leading than closed-ended questions.
•
Open-ended questions typically begin with words such
as "Why" and "How", or phrases such as "Tell me about..." Often they are not technically a question, but a statement which implicitly asks for a response.
•
Be aware of verbal and non-verbal signs that your listener is not engaged. If the person to whom you are speaking says, “I’m very busy today,” or starts to walk away from you during your conversation, pay attention to the hint and politely disengage. When you are in someone’s office, and they stand up from behind their desk that is another clue signaling you to conclude your conversation.
Closed-Ended Question
Open-Ended Question
Do you get along well with your colleagues? How about those cardinals! Did you watch the game?
Tell me about your relationship with your colleagues. How about those cardinals! What do you think about the game?
May I help you?
How may/can I help you?.
Do you like your job?
What do you like most about your career at XYZ Corporation? Examples
How do you feel? Perhaps the most famous (or infamous) open-ended question is "How does this make you feel?" or some variation thereof. This question has become a clichĂŠ and the reason it is so widely used is that it's so effective.
Networking events
Networking functions can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips that you will find helpful when navigating a sea of business card slinging strangers:
•
Entering a conversation huddle can be brutal. If you aren’t exactly sure how to make a smooth transition, you may find yourself standing outside of a circle. Or you may feel like an intruder when the lively conversation flat- lines and you are the reason.
•
When you are interested in entering a conversation,
look for groups of three 3 or more. You are more likely to interrupt a private conversation, if you join a group of two. Groups of two can be tricky because the likelihood of interrupting a private talk increases significantly.
•
Make eye contact with one of the people in the group. Make sure your facial expression and body language are pleasant and open. Possibly give a slight nod (as to say “May I join?”). That person will either acknowledge your presence and either acknowledge your presence or invite you to enter the circle, or they will simply continue speaking without extending an invite. Should they extend an invite, gracefully introduce yourself to the group members. If you overheard the topic while you were waiting, you may want to re-engage with your feedback. You may say something like, “As I was walking by, I overheard you talking about millennials in the workplace…” The conversation will likely flow from there. Be sure to only insert yourself in work-related conversations. You will most likely not be as welcomed if you arrive into a conversation with, “I heard you talking about your vasectomy.” It is impolite to interrupt a clearly personal conversation.
•
If you are not invited into the circle, simply move on to another group or individual who may be more open.
•
Body language is important. Avoid attempting to join groups when someone turns or squares their back to you as you walk by. It is a clear indicator that they are
engaged in a more private conversation. Simply move along--there is another conversation waiting just for you.
•
Initiating conversation can be awkward at first. Don’t give up. If you notice someone standing or sitting alone and they exhibit open body language, walk over and introduce yourself. Ask them how they are enjoying the event? Remember to ask open ended questions to keep the conversation flowing. Many networking events offer an open bar containing alcoholic beverages. Limit yourself to no more than one drink, or abstain altogether.
Introductions
When performing introductions, here is the 2-step golden rule to proper business introductions: Step 1: The first person's name you say is always the most important person. Business rank and status are the primary determinants to who takes precedence over whom. Gender and age are typically not factors. Step 2: Thereafter, everyone else's name is introduced to that most important person.
For an informal introduction, use the words "this is" as the bridge between saying the most important person's name first and then introducing the second person. "Jane Doe, this is John Smith, our new staff member. Jane Doe is our CFO." Remember: Be careful not to get too wordy when using the word "introduce." For instance, which of these three sentences are is correct? A) Jane Doe, may I introduce John Jones. B) Ms. Doe, may I introduce to you Mr. Smith. C) Jane Doe, may I introduce you to John Smith. ANSWER: A is correct and best by using the fewest words B is correct although wordy; C is not correct, because by switching the words "to you" to "you to,� emphasis is not on the correct person.
Important Eexception
Whenever a client is introduced, they are most important and should always be introduced first, even to the CEO. Without the client, there would be no company.
"Susan Jones, may I introduce Jackie Lee, our CEO. Susan has been a client of the firm for 10 years."
Also, whenever introducing dignitaries and other notable people, such as elected officials, you may want to use the word "present" instead of the words "this is" or "introduce." It is the style most often used in diplomatic and international arenas.
"Mayor Jones, may I present Kathy Smith, from our account manager. Kathy is interested in more information on Local Control.�
STEP 5 The Meat and Potatoes - Dining Etiquette Basics Now, that we have covered the basics, let’s look into the specifics of professional and proper etiquette. We will begin with dining etiquette.
Invitation
It is proper to RSVP (even sending regrets) to an invitation as soon as you have determined with certainty whether you can or cannot attend. The correspondence should always take place within the time frame stated on the invitation. If after you have responded affirmatively and you cannot make it, personally notify your host as soon as possible. This courtesy is key, because the host has planned for the evening based on your presence. It is never acceptable to not call and not show up--it is rude and disrespectful. Your reason for not attending should be legitimate and urgent, not that you received a better invitation. Once you have committed, honor your word.
Arrival
On time is early. When invited to dine, it is important to plan ahead to arrive on time. Early arrival is encouraged, 5 to10 minutes ahead of the scheduled time is preferred. Planning to arrive early also allows for mishaps such as getting lost or finding parking. Take a few deep cleansing breaths before entering an event. Think of the things for which you are grateful. You will walk in centered and will more likely present your best, authentic self. Double check that you are in good order—buttons buttoned, zippers zipped, hair in place. Avoid arriving more than 15 minutes prior to the stated event starting time: the host may be in the final stages of
preparation. If you are attending a dinner at private home, bring a gift of appreciation. A nice bottle of wine or sparkling cider is appropriate. Should you choose to bring a food item (cookies, cake, etc.) let the hostess know that it is a gift for the home and not to be served during the event. Adding something to the menu could disrupt the flow of what they have planned. If the event is held at a restaurant, stand in the lobby and wait for the host to arrive. The host will then invite guests to the table. Be sure to stand and greet others. Never sit while shaking hands. If it is not convenient to stand, at least make a gesture that you are going to rise from your seat. At business dinners, it is especially important for your guests to be interspersed with you and your co-workers. Always be sure your business guests are seated near those who invited them. Doing otherwise could cost you an important client or damage a business relationship. The same is true when you are dining with people you manage. Make sure managers and their subordinates are mingling and talking to one another.
The Meal
The host will give signals throughout the meal. Follow his or her lead.
1.
You should always wait for the host to sit before you sit at the table.
2.
The host signals the start of the meal by placing their napkin in his or her lap. The guests should follow suit.
3.
Guests begin eating after the hosts takes the first bite. This is true for each course.
Napkin If you need to leave the table temporarily, place your napkin on your seat. Prayer during meal Handle this situation carefully. Religious practices are personal. So whether you are a host or someone else’s guest, avoid saying grace aloud or interrupting someone else during their time of prayer. If you are the person who would like to pray during a meal, do so quickly. Again, we must remember, etiquette is the art of making others comfortable. If you take 10 minutes to pray, you will inevitably make someone feel uncomfortable. Sit up straight to denote confidence.When all else fails follow the example of the host. Avoid placing your elbows on the table during the meal. Keep your hands on your lap or resting on the table (with wrists on the edge of the table).
Know Your Territory: Formal Table Setting Know your place settings. Use silverware from the outside in, this means to begin by using the utensil furthest from your plate first. When in doubt, follow the host’s example.
1.
Salad plate (placed in center of dinner plate or to the left of the dinner napkin)
2.
Napkin (can also be placed in the center of the dinner plate)
3.
Salad fork (the smaller-sized fork)
4.
Dinner fork
5.
Dinner plate
6.
Dinner knife
7.
Teaspoon
8.
Soup spoon (only if soup is served)
9.
Bread & butter plate (optional)
10.
Water/Iced tea glass (usually placed at the tip of the knife)
11.
Wine glass (optional, placed to the right at a slant to the water/iced tea glass)
SIMPLE TIPS for knowing your place setting every time.
Hold both hands in front of you, palms facing each other. Using the tips of your thumb and forefinger, make circles on each hand. The remaining three fingers in each hand point upwards. Your left hand will form a "b" and your right hand will form a "d". Bread (b) is on the left, and drink (d) is on the right. Drink from your water glass; it is to your right, at the tip of the knife (#10).
Ordering
You are being assessed by your bosses, colleagues, and others based on the way you treat support staff. Say please and thank you to servers. Scan the menu quickly and avoid excessive “special orders”. In business, it is not about the food; rather it is about the purpose of the gathering. That means your meal may not be perfect at times. You are there to build rapport and conduct business first. This goal should always be your priority. It is, however, polite to alert the person who has invited you to dinner of any food allergies or special dining needs. One way to handle this request is to address your dining needs when accepting your invitation. For example, you could say, “Thank you for the dinner invitation. I would be delighted to attend. I
also should tell you that I have a serious allergy to shellfish, so perhaps we could find an alternate to meeting at Red Lobster?” No one wants to put another’s life at risk. Most professionals are happy to accommodate such requests. Think before ordering. Order foods that can be eaten with a knife and fork. Don’t order messy foods that are known to splatter or spray such as spaghetti and other long pasta noodles. Also avoid messy or sauce covered finger foods such as hot wings, burgers, corn on the cob, etc. A chicken breast, fish filet, vegetable plate or salad is always safe. If you like pasta, try penne or bow tie pasta. If you are not sure what to order, follow the host’s lead. Order a medium-priced entrée. Avoid extreme pricing. Do not order the lowest or highest priced meal on the menu. If the host is not first in line to order, ask him or her, “What do you recommend?” Based on the recommendation, you will know what type of dish, and price range to order. Example, if the host or your superior orders a salad, then you will want to order something light like a salad or sandwich. If you order a sandwich, be sure to eat it with a fork and knife. Avoid an entire entrée because your dish will take much longer to prepare and eat than your host. If you are not of age to drink alcohol never order an alcoholic beverage, even if you are in an open bar situation. If you are of age it is still a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol in a business setting. If you choose to partake, don’t have more than one alcoholic drink. In an interview situation do not order
an alcoholic beverage. Never order alcohol if your bosses and company superiors are not drinking. Do not be the first one to order an alcoholic beverage. Stick to soft drinks, tea, coffee, and water. Avoid beer, wine, and mixed drinks. If your host insists on seeing the dessert menu, and orders dessert he or she wants you to have one. Otherwise, do not order dessert. Follow your diet quietly. If you have a special diet, call the restaurant or view an online menu in advance to explore your menu options.
Eating
Always taste food before you add salt or pepper. Cut one bite (meat, fruit, and vegetables) at a time. Keep your fork tines pointed down. Hold your fork with your index finger on the back of the fork. Not like a barbarian with all of your fingers gripping the fork in a fist. When eating dinner rolls or bread, tear off and butter one small bite sized piece of bread at a time. Avoid making a sandwich with your dinner roll or trying to take a large bite out of the bread. When sharing a sauce with others, spoon some of it on to your plate; don’t dip your food into the main dish. No double-dipping in community sauces or condiments. On shared appetizers or in family-style dining situations, do not add salt, pepper, or other sauces and seasonings to the main dish. Save the seasoning for your own plate.
Pace yourself. Dining is not a race to see who can finish first. Eat at the same pace as your host and dining companions. Again, the host signal the beginning or end of meal. When they finish, you should follow their lead. Don’t eat with your mouth open.Don’t eat the garnish. The parsley is there for decoration only. Don’t discuss dietary restrictions; downplay your food preferences. Everyone at the table does not need to know all of the details of your vegetarian or gluten-free diet. Avoid eating like a savage as if this is your last meal. On the other hand, don’t pick off of half a lettuce leaf because you are watching your weight. You’ll make the best impression by eating like a healthy human – not like a bear or a bird. Soup Avoid a few common mistakes that people make when eating soup. Don’t drink from the soup bowl. Do not slurp or blow on your soup. Your spoon should be swept away from you, not towards you, to avoid splashing.
Conversation
Be prepared to engage in conversation. Stay tuned in national and local newspapers, or sign up for online news alerts ahead of time so that you can discuss current news and events. Relax and keep the conversation focused on business-related or casual topics. Steer the conversation away from personal relationships unless your guests invite you into their personal lives. Innocently asking someone if they are married or if they have children can
bring up a very sore subject. Don’t mention recent parties of mutual friends where other guests may not have been invited, politics, or religion. Be careful with jokes--something that you may think is harmless may be highly offensive to others, especially if you are speaking to someone from another country. Watch for any nonverbal signs that people in your party are uncomfortable and guide the conversation towards safer subjects if you feel things are not going well.
Don’ts
Don’t reach. Simply ask the closest person to the item to pass it once they are finished. Don’t perform any personal grooming at the table. This includes touching hair and re-applying lip gloss. Don’t use toothpicks at the table or in the presence of the hosts or other guests. Don’t smoke, chew gum, burp, or pick your teeth. If you feel something in your teeth excuse yourself to the restroom to remove. Don’t blow your nose in your napkin. Don’t forget that your cell phone, iPad and other electronic devices should be out of site. Turn off your ringer. Avoid putting your phone on vibrate; in many cases, everyone can still hear it. No texting during meals— you are fooling no one by trying to text under the table. People can see you. Don’t pile purses, keys, eyeglasses, or other items on the table.
Don’t hold silverware and gesture like you are conducting an orchestra or like you are a lumberjack shoveling a meal before heading out to chop down trees. Don’t shout, whisper, or otherwise disturb others. Don’t dominate the conversation. Be sure to ask questions and allow others to speak. Try to engage the people at your table who haven’t spoken much. Don’t over talk and interrupt others in conversation. Especially when speaking with superiors and hosts. That is one of the fastest ways to find yourself uninvited to future events. Don’t attempt to show your intelligence by excessive use of large words or industry jargon. No one is impressed. No one. Don’t ask for a doggie bag (to go boxes) in business. What you don’t eat, simply leave it there. Don’t get too comfortable. Even if the meal isn’t technically an interview situation, you need to be on your toes. Remember: Someone is always watching. Don’t argue over the check or offer to pay the tip in a business setting. The host who invited you will take care of both. But remember that works the other way as well: If you invite, you are expected to pay.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Albert Einstein warned that you have to learn the rules of the game, and then learn to play better than anyone else. The tools you have learned in these this book can place you ahead of the competition. Practice the skills advised and heed the warnings given. You have the necessary tools, now it is up to you to use them to your advantage. Kick pomp and circumstance to the curb and put etiquette to work for you! Professional presence has been a key part of my life since I can remember. From the shy, awkward teenager who worked in the family beauty business, to becoming the first African American Female Salesperson to be hired by my region’s largest luxury automotive group. I am a Certified Etiquette Consultant with a passion to empower youth and professionals with the soft skills necessary to be successful in business and life. It is my pleasure to assist you in your journey.
Suggested Reading: How to Win Friends and Influence People, Dale Carnegie The Young Entrepreneur’s Guide to Success 2.0, Sylvester Chisom 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Steven Covey Never Eat Alone, Keith Ferrazzi Super Rich, Russell Simmons