I quit being afraid when my first venture failed and the sky didn’t fall down. ~Allen H. Neuharth
September Tips For Communication & Image Success
Tip for Organizations:
Question:
Our company is finally going to address business casual after hesitating to move in this direction with the dress code because our clients visit our office quite often. Even so, there have been dress infractions already with our staff. Now, we want to be proactive and move carefully toward a sensible daytime business casual dress code.
Answer:
I recommend you look at some companies that are already doing business casual, eying the more professional aspects of their dress codes. Be specific on what is not appropriate. For example, you might not allow jeans. Be clear that there is a significant difference between casual and business casual dress at the office during work hours.
Communication Question:
Question:
I have been asked to speak at a leadership summit about the direction of my group since becoming Senior Director of Sales and have 15 minutes to address them. It has been a challenging year and we have made some significant changes in the area. However, we have not met our goals. Should I state this outright and then talk about the practices we have put in place to ensure next year will be more successful?
Answer:
When delivering a message of not meeting area objective, you want to be clear on what has been learned as well as be able to succintly describe the processes put in place to ensure goals are met or exceeded in the future. A phrase like “The numbers are not what we would like them to be” is much better than “we did not meet the numbers”.
Presence Question:
Question:
Is it important to keep trends in mind when purchasing new wardrobe pieces?
Answer:
I do not believe in following current trends unless you have unlimited funds. For example, narrow slacks that tend to gather at the ankles are the latest in casual wear for women. My body type looks best in narrow or wide-leg slacks. I would tend to stay with what works well for me. For men, narrow legs in suit pants are becoming more popular but I do not recommend them for my clients who are shorter in the legs.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question:
When invited to a wedding the invitation is only addressed to me. Can I call to ask permission to bring a date or can I just indicate a guest in the RSVP?
Answer:
Only if the invitation indicates you can bring a guest is that socially acceptable. Unless they are close relatives who may not know you have a significant other, you may ask, otherwise, you should attend alone.