Etiquette Now! Insights

  Network & Become THE Expert Running a small business can be a challenge in any kind of market.  This is especially true today with so many potential customers looking for the next big thing: the newest flavor of the month.  Consequently, it is particularly important to stand out above competitors. With my 20+ years as a small business owner, I've learned how to do this on an extremely small advertising budget.   Follow along for my favorite tips.     Establish Yourself as the Expert and Interview Frequently. My face is on your television, in print media, and on podcasts.  My voice is on your radio.  Why?  It's because the need for content is great. Quite often local networks require an expert in my field, so they typically call me for interviews .  The same is true for all other content-driven media outlets, like newspapers and magazines.  As an etiquette expert, I frequently interview during the holidays due to gift-giving, tipping, and business party questions.

  Preparing for the Interview For over twenty years as an etiquette professional, I’ve trained countless job seekers.  Not much has changed in those decades, except our expanded use of technology.   Today, we can apply for a job using Social networking sites, such as LinkedIn.  We commonly use an email program to contact an organization’s HR department.  Additionally, we live on our cellphones.  Many times, we use these electronic appendages to reply to those HR departments and recruiters.  Some of those calls and emails could be the difference between a future job and a trip to the unemployment office.    Consequently, it would benefit all job seekers to follow a few of my suggestions.    Consider Your Use of a Cellphone Sure, texting is fast and convenient.  However, it’s not the best method to use for answering emails from a recruiter or anyone else who may be trying to assist you in your job hunt.  These replies should appear professional and well-thought-out.  Therefore,

  How to Get Your Next Job It seems that Career Fair Season is upon us again.  Truly, depending on your specific career choice, recruiters may be looking for you all year.  As an etiquette consultant who routinely prepares job candidates, I’m often interviewed by local news media about this topic—which was the case recently. (video above) I always stress the importance of following a few simple rules.  So, if searching for a job or internship at the next career fair , please read on.  Take it Seriously and Do Your Homework! This just may be a formal interview for a real job or internship so take the job/career fair seriously.  Know what companies will be there.  Find out what the companies are working on and what they are doing so you can ask pertinent questions.  If you want a certain type of job, know what that job entails.  Dress the Part! Employers want employees they believe will fit into their corporate culture.  Therefore, dress the part and look as if you already fit

  With leisure travel, you are representing only yourself.  However, with business travel, you are representing your company. The impressions you impart may determine your future business relationship with those you are visiting. Attire Your attire choices will play a major part in how you are viewed.  However, if time allows dress in comfortable clothes to reduce stress and help you keep focused on your objectives.  These should still appear conservative, like slacks, neat shirt/blouse, and a jacket/blazer.  Avoid clothing that wrinkles or clings. Track the weather and dress accordingly. Dress slightly more formal than your counterparts do. Pack an extra outfit just in case: unexpected meeting, unplanned trip extension, and mishaps.  Transportation & Technology Expect delays: pack makeup, backup battery charger, antibacterial gel/sheets, noise-canceling headphones, pen and paper, business cards, and breath mints. Apply for TSA Precheck. Before getting in l

  How to Get the Job You Want Let’s face it, even with the best education, the job market is a tough place to be.  It is incredibly tight and expectations of the newly hired are high. So, what is someone with little work experience to do?  As an etiquette consultant who trains job seekers, I always suggest internships for those who are still in high school and college.  Still, all can benefit from what a good internship can provide. What are the advantages and benefits of an internship? As your coworkers and supervisors evaluate you and your work habits, you are best able to evaluate how it would be to work in that business and for that particular company full time.   The internship also provides an opportunity to develop a work ethic and polish your people skills. Dealing with the scary people and learning new skills. More than likely, you will be learning new skills, as the work required may be a new experience for you.  The business may also have unique methods that yo