Nothing is less important than which fork you use. Etiquette is the science of living. It embraces everything. It is ethics. It is honor. Emily Post
October Tips For Communication & Image Success
Tip for Organizations:
Question:
It is challenging for our new folks who get together after hours on how to pay the bill when some drink alcoholic beverages and others do not. How should the tab be handled?
Answer: The first time a group gets together and there is not a conversation about the bill beforehand, the bill should be split evenly among everyone. After that, the next time the same group gets together each person should separately tabulate his/her portion consumed, leave money on the table and say this is his/her part of the bill (I recommend that the folks who do not drink plan to leave a bit earlier.).
For the first gathering, the group is establishing relationships. The second time, relationship building is still important but now because these folks may be going out regularly, ground rules should be gracefully established.
Communication Question:
Question:
In a business dining setting with a potential client, how do I handle a problem if the dining staff causes too much of a commotion?
Answer:
Leave the table when you are dealing with a difficult staff situation. Politely mention to your quests that you will return in a few minutes. Avoid challenging the restaurant staff at the table.
Wardrobe Question:
Question:
Recently I was invited to an after-hours event in the city by an important client. I was embarrassed because my dress was inappropriate (way too casual). What would be a good way to handle this in the future?
Answer: Research. Call the location of the event and ask if this event has been held before with this group and if so, ask how the attendees dressed. I always do this for new events. If that is not an option, then casually ask the invitee about the dress or always wear a jacket that you can remove.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question:
Is it proper to take home left overs at a business social event?
Answer: Typically, it is not recommended for several reasons. It can be messy. If you are riding with a group, the food can emit unpleasant odors in the car. Also, if there is a program after dinner, you do not want to be sitting there with a box of food.