Archived Tips 2007
January 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
“I have a lot of things to prove to myself. One is that I can live my life fearlessly.”
Oprah Winfrey 1954
Organization:
We would like some of our associates be more engaging with clients at social events. Small talk is big challenge for them. What topics can they bring up to break the ice?
Answer:
Small talk should be fun and engaging for the listener. Topics such as current movies, books and favorite restaurants are good subjects as they provide information to the listener which the listener can use in the future. Have your associates practice with each other before an event will help make this easier for them with clients.
Men:
How poplar is Ben Sherman clothing and are they appropriate for business casual?
Answer:
Ben Sherman www.benshermanusa.com offers clothing for the younger man. The style is very 70’s for sweaters and stripes for shirts. Worn properly shirts tucked can be business casual. I do not recommend wearing them out even though they are promoted to be worn this way. They can be worn out for social occasions not related to work.
Women:
Is wearing short boots with skirts fashionable in the office?
Answer:
Short leather boots with mid heels worn with a short or long skirt can be fashionable for business casual. I would not recommend in offices that require more formal business attire.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
How do you handle an e-mail copied to someone who should not have received the e-mail?
If the e-mail has information that can be offensive to the person who should not been copied on it and they call your attention to it. Apologize do not even try to explain as the explanation will only cause more problems. Never write anything offensive about anyone in an e-mail.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
When you invite a client to dine in the evening, the purpose should be to get to know them not to talk about business. If you invite the spouse be sure you either you invite your spouse or another person for the spouse to talk with.
Personal Images in the News
Anna was the expert in Crain’s Chicago Business Expert Opinion December 4th on If I’m being treated to lunch, is it appropriate to send back a flawed dish?
February 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
Take calculated risks. This is quite different from being rash.”
George Patton 1885-1945
Organization:
What can we tell our new associates to help them be better listeners when conversing with clients?
Answer:
There are two key points to remember. First, they must listen with more than with their ears. Being sensitive to body language and tone of voice is equally important. Second, their responses should echo the client’s specific words. Example: If the client uses the word team, the associate should use team in response.
Men:
I noticed that most of the CEOs making keynote speeches at the Las Vegas electronics conference did not wear a tie. Is a tie necessary when speaking to a large group?
Answer:
It is important to know your audience and the setting. Expectations are different when speaking at an electronics conference than when addressing a financial group in New York City. I always recommend wearing a blazer, with or without a tie.
Women:
Is it “in” or “out” to wear turtleneck with a suit?
Answer:
A mock turtleneck is a better choice than a turtle neck. The latter are casual and should only be worn in a business casual setting. Turtlenecks also add weight to your face and can have a busy look if you have long hair.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
How often should you apologize if you are wrong?
Usually, twice is enough, but the severity of the incident may call for a written apology.
When making your apology, be sure your tone of voice and body language mirrors your sincerity.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
A handwritten thank you note carries more weight than an e-mail one. You can follow-up a traditional thank you note with an e-mail, if you’d like.
Personal Images in the News
Anna was the image expert for the WSJ January 13th article on “iShirts.”
March 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.
Aristotle
Organization:
Our group is working on a presentation to sell senior management on a new concept. What should we include to deliver our message effectively?
Answer:
First, come up with three main points that can be repeated throughout the presentation. These should emphasize what the benefit will be, how the concept fits with the company focus, and what the financial impact will be. Second, provide statistics to confirm why senior management should embrace this new concept. Finally, be prepared to answer any negatives about this concept.
Men:
While in Singapore for business, will I be expected to greet people with a bow?
Answer:
Bowing is not a common practice in Singapore. To be on the safe side, follow your client’s lead. If they bow, you bow. The bow is a slight bow.
Women:
Should my business wardrobe include a dress?
Answer:
The dress is making a slow comeback in the work world. The most popular style is the wrap dress. Start with a solid color dress with a collar so it does not look too casual or party like. Remember that choosing the right shoes are critical to the total professional impact you make.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
How long do I have to send a sympathy card or a condolence letter?
There is no time limit on expressing your sympathy. Writing a condolence letter is more appropriate than sending a card if you are a close friend or relative.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
In acknowledging a death, say “I am sorry for your loss,” and add a special comment about the person. If you didn’t know the person, say “I am sorry I did not get to know him or her.”
Personal Images in the News
Anna was featured in the Daily Herald Business section on January 29 in an article entitled, “Consultant helps build confidence one step at a time” by Jim Kendall.
April 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
Who is not satisfied with himself will grow.
Hebrew proverb
Organization:
What tips should we give our account managers to ease their anxiety about fielding questions raised when they are in the middle of making a presentation?
Answer:
At the beginning of the presentation, the account manager should request that all questions be held until the end, at which time they will be answered. The speaker to repeat the question, or ask the speaker to repeat the question
Men:
How long should I keep a suit and how can I tell if it’s dated?
Answer:
Oversized shoulders and lapels that are either too narrow or too wide signal that a suit is dated. A good suit should look good for three to five years, depending how often you wear it and have it cleaned. A suit should only be cleaned once a year unless it has been heavily stained or absorbed a lot of odor.
Women:
How should I go about organizing my wardrobe in a closet?
Answer:
First, remove all items in the closet that you have not worn in the last two years and bag them for a charitable donation. Next, remove all items that need to be cleaned and repaired and put them aside to take to the cleaners. Determine whether you like to mix and match clothing or prefer to wear complete ensembles. Group like items (e.g. all slacks, all tops, all jackets or all suits)
together and start each group with the same color.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
When writing an e-mail about a difficult subject, what can I say to make sure it will not come across as offensive?
If the subject is at all controversial, it is better to call and speak to the person rather than send e-mails. An article in USA Today two years ago said most of the misunderstandings in business were caused by e-mails.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
When you invite a guest to a business lunch, it is proper etiquette to let them know the topic of conversation. Business discussion begins after the meal is ordered, unless the client begins the conversation. A typical business lunch runs from 60 to 90 minutes.
Personal Images in the News
Anna is the image and communication resource for an article for the Nikkei Business Associate magazine on Business Casual Dress in Japan.
May 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
You may be disappointed if you fail, but you are doomed if you don’t try. Beverly Sills
Organization:
What do you recommend wearing for a court appearance?
Answer:
Men and women should wear a jacket to show respect for the legal system. A tie is optional depending on a man’s role in the company for which he is testifying.
Men:
Is a navy blue blazer essential to a wardrobe?
Answer:
A navy blue blazer is a foundation piece. It is especially important to your wardrobe if you are in business, have occasion to wear a blazer, and do not own a suit. I also would recommend having a lighter color blazer with a pattern as another option for more casual occasions.
Women:
What kind of shoes should I wear to with a formal tea length dress?
Answer:
This depends on the dress. If the dress is very open on the top – an open toe sandal balances the lightness of the dress. If the dress has a jacket and a suit like feel to it, a closed toe shoe is appropriate. Metallic fabric and leather are very popular for evening.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
I have been told that I have a very stern look and appear angry. How can I put others at ease?
You can do several things: smile more, make small talk before a meeting begins, and be sensitive to the tone of your voice and your body language.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Corsages are appropriate to honor women at an event. Wrist corsages are easiest to wear. Choose flowers that have a light fragrance in case the wearer has allergies.
Personal Images in the News
Anna was the moderator for the 40th Chicago Minority Business Opportunity Fair Professional Services Forum held April 2, 2007 at Navy Pier in Chicago.
June 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
A problem well stated is a problem half solved.
Charles Franklin Kettering 1876-1958
Organization:
We are putting together a video clip to promote our company on our website. What do you recommend we have our employees wear?
Answer:
Never wear bold prints, big stripes, nor white or red shirts or tops when appearing in a video. Keep jewelry to a minimum, choosing pieces with a matte finish that have no movement and are not distracting.
Men:
What is new in business casual shirts for the summer?
Answer:
Stripes are very poplar again this summer, especially wider, colorful ones. To be on the safe side, chose more subdued rather than very bright colored stripes. These sport shirts are not to be worn with a tie.
Women:
Are open toe sandals appropriate for business casual dress?
Answer:
This depends on your company policy and how casual the sandal looks. Most importantly, be sure your toes are well maintained. I recommend avoiding bright nail polish.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
What do I need to know about handling business cards in China?
Business cards are always given face up with both hands on the card. Never write on the business card given to you, as this is considered very disrespectful in China.
July 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
A smile is a universal kindness. Unknown
Organization: What guidance should we give our young associates about tipping when entertaining clients at restaurants? Should they tip 20% of the total check or only tip the amount without the tip.
Answer:
I recommend leaving a 20% tip on the total amount of the check. This builds good will for the associates and your firm, which is especially important if your associates will be frequenting the restaurant on an on-going basis.
Men:
It is true that tall men have better presence than short men in business?
Answer:
How one presents themselves in terms of confidence (body language, eye contact and communication skills) is far more important than their height.
Women:
When dressing for a first interview, is it more important to wear something I feel comfortable in a pants suit or a suit with a skirt.
Answer:
It is important to know the culture of the company and dress accordingly, unless it makes you uncomfortable.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
I prefer to go by my nickname. Should I have this printed on my business card?
Answer: If you prefer to be called by your nickname, you should have it printed on your business card (e.g. Robert “Bobby” Smith) and introduce yourself this way.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Carry a piece of unscented fabric softener you can use to help absorb the moisture on your hands before you offer to shake hands.
Personal Images in the News
Anna was VP of the Association of Image Consultants’ annual educational conference held in Minneapolis this past May. Seventeen countries were represented.
August 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
Organization Tip:
Question: Our employees are dressing too casual for everyday work. We do have a business casual policy that is now being revised. We still want to have our employees be comfortable but at the same time reflect that we are a business not at a weekend event. How can we impress upon them the importance of professional dress without doing away with the business casual policy?
Answer: It is important to realize, especially in these uncertain economic times, that the business community is very competitive where everything matters. You want your company to reflect a very professional environment and employees to have a business-like attitude; their appearance is the first thing your client will notice. Business casual is not weekend wear. It is relaxed professional dress. Bottom line: even though jackets are always necessary does not mean you can wear t shirts or flip flops to work. You can strengthen your policy by not allowing the clothing items that are weekend wear like flip flops.
Tip For Men:
Question: What do you think about semi-open toe sandals for business casual dress? There are great Italian dress sandals that look great with dress pants.
Answer: In the world of business consulting, law and finance, absolutely not; but in the world of art and fashion they can be acceptable.
Tip For Women:
Question: I like very high heels but I notice ballet slipper(s)style shoes are becoming very popular. How can I look like a smart professional in ballet slippers and not take away my presence because I am short.
Answer: The designers of ballet slipper shoes have added decorative ornaments to the shoe toes and even added a heel to them so they today have a very smart and business like look to them. What is more important to remember is choosing clothing choices where your slacks or skirt has a matching color and style in your jacket or top, as this will add height to you. Wearing a matching outfit in color and style and this will give the appearance of being tall.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question: What is a good gift to give as a thank you to a client that is not too personal?
Answer: Business clients love a good book or audio tape that will help them strengthen their business skills or something they can use for their office – a good example is a picture frame
September 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
Don’t reserve your best behavior for special occasions. You can’t have two sets of manners, two social codes – one for those you admire and want to impress, another for those whom you consider unimportant. You must be the same to all people.
Lillian Eichler Watson
Organization Tip:
Question: We have a group of emerging leaders who have great potential, but lack executive presence. How can they improve their appearance so the senior team sees their potential?
Answer: Emphasize good grooming, such as having and maintaining a current hair style, and for women, wearing a touch of make-up. Even business casual clothing should be smart, tailored and in mint condition along with coordinating accessories (e.g. shoes, belts, and jewelry).
Tip for Men:
Question: How long should I keep ties in my wardrobe?
Answer: Typically three years, but longer for ties with your company logo or a sports-related design. Always check that your tie has no spots or snags before you leave home.
Tip for Women:
Question: I am in the process of losing weight and my clothes already look baggy. I don’t want to have them altered until I reach my desired weight. What can be done without completely overhauling each garment?
Answer: Nipping in the back of a jacket and taking in the waist of pants or a skirt is an inexpensive way to show your weight loss, allow your clothes to match your progress while you are “in transition”. This also will help you feel better about yourself.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question: What should I do when a person ignores me when I say hello?
Answer: Show that you are a person with class by taking the high road and letting it go.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Not over apologizing for a mistake will lessen the effect of an error at the time. Following up a verbal apology with a written one confirms your sincerity.
Personal Images in the News
Anna is the image expert in an upcoming Fort Worth Star-Telegram article on appropriate headbands for women to wear in the office.
October 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance.
Samuel Johnson, 1709-1784 English critic and writer
Organization Tip:
Question: Our new senior account managers are technically skilled, but have a difficult time at networking events. How can we help them become more comfortable in these situations, which are critical to growing our client base and developing new relationships?
Answer: Encourage them to overcome their nervousness and refine their interpersonal skills by attending non-work related networking events twice a month. Arm them with small talk topics and be sure they have their personal introduction down pat. Ask them for a monthly assessment of how well they are doing.
Tip for Men:
Question: I get warm easily, but would like to add some sweaters to my fall wardrobe. What kind of sweaters might work best for me?
Answer: Choose sweaters that are light in weight and weave, and wear them without a shirt underneath. Avoid bulky knit sweaters and turtle necks. Collared sweaters with a half zipper are very popular.
Tip for Women:
Question: What do you think of the new short sleeve, short jackets?
Answer: Cropped jackets are best worn with a solid top and matching slacks or skirt. The jacket must hit just below your waist and on top of your hip bone.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question: When hosting a small business party, should the hosts have a receiving line?
Answer: Yes, the host and their spouse if it is a party to include spouses should be at the entrance of the room to greet. Both hands should be free to welcome them.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
When a woman asks a man out for dinner or lunch she should pay for the meal. An appropriate way to handle this not to pay for it at the table but give your credit card to the waiter before the meal is ended. Make arrangements to sign for it later.
Personal Images in the News
Anna will be the chair for the Chicago Business Opportunity Fair Sponsor’s Breakfast in April 2008.
November 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
Expect people to be better than they are; it helps them to become better. But don’t be disappointed when they are not; it helps them to keep trying.
Merry Browne
Organization Tip:
Question: When in Germany for business, how should I greet the people I meet?
Answer: A fairly firm handshake is customary among men, often with only one or two “pumps.” Women will offer their hand in greeting, too. Public cheek – kissing is rare.
Tip for Men:
Question: How should a man compliment a woman on her appearance in a business setting?
Answer: Compliment the item she is wearing (e.g. That is a pretty pin), but never add the comment “on you.”
Tip for Women:
Question: How can I stop the thinning of the hair on top of my head?
Answer: Nioxin has a great shampoo (cleanser) and conditioner (scalp therapy) that helps protect your hair follicles. The product is numbered depending on type of hair (thin or coarse) and whether or not it is chemically treated. It is best only to apply only one chemical treatment to your hair (e.g. don’t perm and color your hair).
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question: In formal dining situations in the US and abroad, where should one keep their hands?
Answer: Here at home, you may rest your wrists on either the table or on your lap. Outside the US, it is often preferable to rest your wrists lightly on the table.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Company policy should dictate who picks up the tab when a senior executive and a manager eat out together.
Personal Images in the News
Anna was the image expert for an article on MyWeightLoss.com. She advised readers about what size clothing to wear when they are losing weight.
December 2007 Monthly Tips
Image and Communication Success
“Celebrate the happiness that friends are always giving, make every day a holiday and celebrate just living!”
Amanda Bradley
Organization Tip:
Question: How can we personalize pre-printed holiday cards for business associates and clients?
Answer: Sign the cards with your first name.
Tip for Men:
Question: How can I dress up a business suit to wear for a holiday evening event?
Answer: Wear a black and grey metallic tie with a white shirt. (Ike Behar makes a wonderful white stripe shirt).
Tip for Women:
Question: Is it a fashion faux pas to wear hose with an evening sandal?
Answer: Fashion purists say you are not to wear hose with sandals, but this is impractical in cold weather climates. Givenchy’s sandal toe Body Glimmers in gold and silver are perfect for wear with evening metallic sandals.
The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Question: What do you suggest as appropriate holiday gifts for business associates and clients?
Answer: Current business books, crystal picture frames, and practical travel items, all under $25 each, make great gifts and are in keeping with corporate guidelines. Government agencies allow no gifts.
Professional Insight – The Art of Business and Social Interaction®
Acknowledge holiday gifts with a phone call or a thank you note. It is not necessary but another way to strengthen a business relationship.
Personal Images in the News
Anna will be speaking to the Women’s Illinois CPA Society in 2008 on The Art of Business and Social Interaction ® – the Essentials of Business and Social Etiquette.
