Etiquette Now! Insights

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 Elevator Speech Time to Polish Our P

  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

  Dear Rebecca , Is a bottle of liquor a good holiday gift for a boss? Sincerely, Liquor in the workplace. Dear Liquor in the Workplace, Most places of business frown on alcohol.  Your gift may be viewed in negatively. Plus, it could appear as apple polishing.  If you are remarkably close to your boss, you could give him/her something a bit less questionable, like homemade cookies . Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca How to Dress for Business Cruise? When is it Appropriate to Give Gifts to Supervisors Should I bring a hostess gift?

Dear Rebecca I've been invited to a holiday company party that is being hosted by the general manager at his home. Should I bring a hostess gift ? Employee Baring Gifts Dear Employee Baring Gifts, The hostess deserves a little something and wine is usually very appropriate, especially for evening events. The only exception with taking wine as a gift would be if liquor is frowned upon in your organization. But since it is a holiday party at someone's home.  Wine, flowers, plants, and books are also good gifts. Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca How to Eat Difficult Foods at a Business or Social Function How to Dress for Business Cruise? When is it Appropriate to Give Gifts to Supervisors

Dear Rebecca I'm not sure how to dress for an upcoming work retreat cruise.   Uneasy Cruiser Dear Uneasy Cruiser, Since this is work-related, I'd skip the flip-flops and bikini.   Resort -casual should be fine for daytime attire.  Think lightweight slacks, skirts, polo shirts, or sporty dresses (think golf course).   Now for the evening, wear a nice pantsuit, or a cocktail dress—no glitter.  If the night is formal, you may have to beef up the outfit with an up-do hairstyle and top-notch accessories.   Sincerely, Rebecca More by Rebecca When is it Appropriate to Give Gifts to Supervisors How Our Actions Can Affect Our Professional Image      How to Eat Difficult Foods at a Business or Social Function