Mind Your Manners - Amy Palec

You may have a mind for business, but are you minding your manners?

Good manners can open doors that money and power cannot.

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n today’s global marketplace, the competitive edge starts and ends with how you conduct yourself in a business setting. Ninety-nine out

of 100 executives agree that good social skills are prerequisites to success in the business and social arenas.

But in the 21^st century, most Americans no longer learn the formal, established arts of protocol and etiquette. Few American organizations – and fewer households – designate time for instruction in polite conduct and interaction, and it shows, particularly in the competitive international marketplace. The more polished your personal skill set is, the greater your potential to make a positive, lasting impression on people.

Have You Wondered...

At what point in an introduction should I offer and ask for a business card?

Whom do I gift? When and for what occasions?

Whose name do I say first when introducing my employer to our new client?

Where do I place my napkin when I excuse myself from the table?

At what point are gestures too personal?

If someone I know comes to my table can I remain seated or should I stand along with my male colleague?

How do I overcome the awkwardness of forgetting someone's name in an introduction?

Where do I wait for my guest if I'm hosting a business lunch?

What is the continental style of eating?

When sitting at a crowded round table, which glass is mine?

If I'm the guest, when is it appropriate to remove my napkin from the table?

What do I do if I bite into a bone or gristle? How and where do I remove it?

When is it appropriate and not appropriate to use Honorifics?

Learn the answers to these and other questions in Tip of the Month, Amy's business etiquette newsletter delivered to you monthly by email. Click here, and be sure to include your name and email address in your message. Thanks!

When you’re looking to take your professional and personal image to the next level, Amy Palec can help you succeed. Certified by The Protocol School of Washington., Amy is a respected trainer in business etiquette and social protocol.

“I believe understanding etiquette is merely the art of knowing how to conduct yourself in any given situation and how you interact with others,” she says. “In today’s economic climate, companies are becoming more discerning. If someone does not wish to do business with you because of poor manners or poor etiquette, they will never tell you.”

Amy provides individualized and group training to help the members of your organization gain confidence and credibility by developing a thorough understanding of:

Business etiquette

Benefits of etiquette and protocol training
Business and social introductions, including the handshake
Forms and addresses; business card etiquette
Remembering names
The art of conversation
Proficient mingling
International protocol and etiquette
Distinguishing yourself from the competition and leaving a good impression of both you and the organization you represent

Dining etiquette

Dining dos and don’ts
How to be a gracious host or guest
Seating guidelines; how to take your seat and what to do with your napkin
American and Continental styles of eating; eating various foods
Silverware savvy
Toasting
Tipping

Ideal for all members of your organization, from your junior executive pool to a single person looking for one-on-one instruction, Amy’s workshops can be tailored to meet your specific needs and objectives.

“Many individuals lack the simple skills needed to develop themselves professionally,” notes Amy. “They may know their business or industry, but that is not enough when dealing with clients, owners, managers and social network opportunities.”

As an outside expert, Amy has the ability to address the unique needs in your organization without judgment, which is important if you believe a specific person or department needs assistance in developing better etiquette skills. Amy’s seminars and workshops require a limited time commitment, but the return on your investment is limitless. Participating individuals receive the tools they need to master the art of etiquette, leading to increased confidence and authority in business and social situations. It is a win-win situation for your organization and your employees.

Take the first step in improving the etiquette of your organization right now… or call (262) 327-1207 to learn more about our etiquette programs.

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