Etiquette Now! Insights

  Ensure that gift-giving is allowed in your workplace and if there is a dollar limit.  Then consider the appropriateness of the gift.  There may be religious, or gender issues attached to some gifts, such as perfume or jewelry for women and religious icons or pork products for some religions.  Gift for The Boss Simple gifts to the boss, so as not to appear like an apple polisher.  Homemade treats Anything for the desk: calendars, stationery, pens, letter openers, picture frame... Book Box of candy Associates to Each Other Gift giving is not equal, because we give gifts according to our relationship with the person. Not Close: Small items for the desk: ‘to-do’ lists tablets, coffee mugs, treats... Filled coffee mugs: candy, teas, coffee... A book Cute holiday -themed items: Santa bobblehead, etc. $5 Gift certificate: coffee shop? Those Who are Close: Consider the person’s preferences. Anything for the desk: calendars, st...

Typically, people dread holiday business events because it is not business as usual and definitely not social.  The rules, so clear to us when we are in our cubicles, become a blur.  During these events, there is often alcohol flowing liberally and staff appears to be enjoying themselves, even freely talking to the boss.  Yet, deep inside we know this is not an outing with our friends.  This is just another way for people to judge how well we perform.  Perform well, and we will receive some sort of recognition; perform badly and it is back to square one.  Plus-Ones? It is no less tricky for the tag-a-long date .  The date knows he/she needs to look sharp, be a good conversationalist, and make a good impression.  And we all know how difficult this is to accomplish when we don’t know these people well and the stakes are high.  How do you compliment people, listen intently, and smile as if your face will break and not seem condesce...

Many times, organizations survive on fundraising and requesting donations.  This is not only stressful but can be less than successful.  Requesting donations is more than just writing a proposal.  It is a combination of tried-and-true measures.  Please read on.  Create Interest Create a mission statement or media kit with stated goals to present to prospective contributors.  Try creating a one-minute 'commercial' to introduce your organization , its mission statement, and goals to sell yourself to prospective contributors.  Action Try inviting prospective donors to one of your meetings to introduce your organization—an excellent personal method to ask for funds. Create Lasting Relationships Send reports to sponsors letting them know how their money is being spent including pictures.  Send thank you notes out often and promptly. Help the representative feel as if he/she is part of your organization and is spending money wis...

No Secret Santa For Me!  Dear Polite One, I don't want to participate in the "Secret Santa" at work.  Christmas or any of the holidays mean nothing to me.  How can I state that I do not want to participate?  If I must be involved, what sorts of gifts are appropriate?   Sincerely, Scrooge Dear Scrooge, It's perfectly fine to state that you don't want to participate.  You'd have to tell the organizer of the event well before the draw.  Perhaps you could speak to this person privately, so you won't even be approached.  If you are somewhat bullied into it (hopefully not), a price guideline should be suggested to all involved.  From there, give a gender-neutral gift like a coffee shop gift card, music download code, a pair of wool gloves, or a small box of candy (anything similar).    Sincerely, The Polite One More by The Polite One     Interview: business meals & handshakes The Importance of an...

  Dear Rebecca, Does a lady stand when the president of the company comes to the table? Question on Table Manners Dear Question on Table Manners, Usually everyone rises when the president of the company arrives to the table.  If the men do, the women do.  Women are considered as part of the team in business, there is no gender bias. Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca Do I tip the server at a formal function? Interview: business meals & handshakes How to Eat Difficult Foods at a Business or Social Function

  Dear Rebecca, If invited to a VIP function with sit-down table service, is it proper to leave a tip for the server/waiter for your table at the end of the night? Visitor from Las Vegas, NV Dear Visitor from Las Vegas, NV, Great question!  No, it would not be proper to do so.  The waitstaff is compensated by the hosts.   Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca Interview: business meals & handshakes The Importance of an Elevator Speech Time to Polish Our Professional Presence