Below are 7 rules to use that will help ensure a successful conference call:

1. Schedule the call with a minimum of one week of notice unless it is an emergency meeting (24 hours or less can be scheduled by telephone or by text depending upon the participants).
2. Send a clear agenda and ask for approval or change requests to be submitted within 24 hours of the scheduled meeting date.
3. Provide instructions as to the login and the code needed for login.
4. Set up clear instructions at the beginning of the call regarding using the mute button.
5. Set up guidelines for using the speaker phone setting on the call.
6. Confirm all parties are present at the opening of the call. Also confirm the time allotted for the meeting.
7. Have a wrap up of the meeting approximately 3-5 minutes before the close of the meeting.

Business lunches are best left to get to know each other and to begin to build a flow of a relationship. It is a time to set some common goals in an informal way. Some pitfalls to avoid are not checking in with the client regarding their time guidelines, such as the time to meet and the length of time to meet. Be sure to consider where they might like to eat. Choose a place with a relaxing setting, that is quiet enough for a conversation, and can accommodate any dietary considerations they may have. Invitations must have been sent based on their scheduling needs. Conversation is light. Talk business only if the guest brings it up in conversation. Controversial subjects are best avoided.

Years ago, men’s suits typically came with two pairs of pants (even in the mid-price range). Today, even high-end suits do not. Now, the company Hickey Freeman will let customers order a second pair of pants. The company Ted Baker from London made a smart choice to offer a pair of pants that matches their suit offerings. In the current world of dressing in business casual attire, men might wear a matching jacket. More often, though, they just wear the pants that match the suit jacket component. Companies are wise to offer the ability to purchase clothing separates for men. Ted Baker of London wants to sell suits with the option of buying a second pair of pants—going back to the days when this was customary.

Gravitas means showing decorum, dignity, or seriousness. It is an important trait to display in order to make a positive first impression and to stand out in a crowded field. First impressions happen quickly—and the chance to make a good one is quickly lost. Recently, I attended a fundraiser for a presidential candidate who is not a frontrunner in the race. The candidate rushed in late, tried to pay attention to her supporters, and attempted to smile easily. Although the candidate has long-term success in the political arena, and the ability to overcome a less than stellar first impression, she should have handled her entrance differently. Instead of rushing into the room, the candidate should have taken a moment in the car to set the tone, preparing to walk confidently into the room. She should have paused upon her entrance and waited for the crowd to settle (they would have because she did). In addition, the candidate’s smile looked a bit weary and her clothing choices did not look fresh. Taking time in the car to change into a new jacket, while her staff managed the crowd, would have been wise. It was a missed opportunity for the candidate to show gravitas and to make a strong impression.

It’s always been who knows you not who you know. The who knows you is your capital in business as well as socially. Building deep relationships through regular contact is best. However, because of busy schedules, getting together for a cup of coffee is not always doable. Being involved in activities where natural connections are made through committee memberships or event participation works best.

The recent announcement of Lonnie G. Bunch III as the next Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution reminded me of a recent Chicago Tribune article where he was quoted saying politics can be a good thing.

Lonnie mentioned the way he could bring together all the folks to ensure the success of the Chicago History Museum. Successful leaders understand that everyone working together on goals pushes projects forward – long term.

I found out later in life it how much it matters to like, and even be passionate about what one is involved in. It seems that earlier in life earning a living was the first goal…to pay bills and still be left with some freedom to live a life that matters.

In my travels, I like and enjoy being around people that make a difference and demonstrate similar values to mine. It is especially important because when we hit a bump in the road, the passion and joy of the work will push us through it.

There are many books that focus on the importance of passion. Some simple exercises to discover what you may be passionate about include journaling and taking a pause to reflect about a moment that brings you a feeling of a brilliance. It is like when athletes say they were in “the zone”. It worked for me.

Color can be used in full force if the style and cut of the clothing item works. You can even wear the same color top to bottom!

Michelle Obama, the former First Lady has been on a whirlwind. 99% of the time she wears a suit (Yes!) in an array of colors from a metallic cyan-hue suit to a multicolor strip golden suit. Material chosen, cut, and styled, plays a major role in expressing a powerful statement with color. It also needs to be the right occasion.

Her stage presence has always been as a dynamo!  This includes her book tour presence which has been a showstopper and fun to watch. Her suit colors and choices accent her brilliance.

Stephen Covey always advocated a reputation as capital. You expand it by investing in it. Delivering on promises and being accountable to others in a commitment means growing your capital.

Developing relationships and giving back to those relationships are a few other ways to keep banking capital. Strong capital results in job promotions or being favorably considered in a reorganization.  Capital is like having money in the bank when a withdrawal is necessary.

Affiliations offer companionship, respect, and safety which is why folks belong and groups grow. The negative side is when groups become one voice of yes people.

We all want relationships that bring a foundation. Beyond that, how do we retain our individuality with integrity and honesty yet keep the group strong? It is a question, I often ponder. Hopefully, groups will keep this issue on the forefront and avoid groupthink and shutting out different voices.