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Party season is here, and it’s time to brush up on your holiday party etiquette. Here are a few tips to be the perfect holiday party guest.  RSVP When you’re invited to a party, and they ask for an RSVP, they would like to know if you will be attending. This helps the host plan for the food, seating, and other things involved when planning a party. Always respond before the due date listed on the invite. I try to make a habit of RSVPing right away so I don’t forget. If you have any dietary restrictions, this would be the time to let the host know. Here’s an example: “I’m allergic to shellfish. Can I bring a dish I can eat to share with the other guests?” Bringing Food or Drinks Depending on the type and formality of the party, you may want to ask if you can bring anything. Offering to bring an appetizer, side dish, wine, or dessert is always a nice option. Please do not show up with food that the host did not request. It may be a nice gesture, but it has the potential to inconvenience the host by having to find room for it on the table. Plus, they may have the menu perfectly planned, and adding another dish may not fit into the timing of the meal. If you bring wine, don’t expect the host to serve it at the party. They may have planned a special wine list to accompany the meal. Bringing a Gift I don’t like to show up empty-handed when I go to a party at someone’s home. It’s a nice gesture to bring a small gift for the host or hostess. It doesn’t have to be elaborate. Here are a few of my go-to favorites: Gourmet Chocolates: Most people rarely buy gourmet chocolates for themselves. A gift of chocolates is a nice treat for the host to enjoy after the party. Wine or a bottle of their favorite spirit: This is an excellent gift if you know they drink alcohol. Don’t expect them to serve it at the party. When you hand it to them, let them know it’s something they can enjoy later. Sparkling Wine Stopper: This is one of my favorite gifts to give. I love this because it keeps the beverage bubbly for several days after opening. Candle Snuffer: Pair this fun gift with a cute box of matches and tie it up in a bow. Tea Towels or Napkins: These are special gifts if you know their color scheme and decorating style. Something made by a local artisan in your community: A candle, cooking oil, or honey from a local beekeeper are unique gifts that also help support a local business. Specialty spices: This would be a welcome gift for someone who loves to cook. Imported or specialty cheese: A gift of cheese with a special cheese knife is a nice touch. Again, this is something for them to enjoy at a later time. Flowers: A word about flowers - If you bring flowers, make sure they are in a container. This prevents the host from having to look for a container in the middle of greeting their guests. Be a Good Guest Being a good guest means being on time. Arrive within 15 minutes of the designated start time of the party. If it’s a sit-down dinner party and you realize you are going to be late, I suggest calling the host to let them know. Avoid arriving early for a party. The host may be doing some last minute party prep or may not even be dressed yet! The perfect party guest is someone who enjoys the company of the other guests. What I mean is mingle. Don’t sit in the corner and keep to yourself. Visit with the other guests. If you don’t know someone, introduce yourself. Here’s a great conversation starter: “How do you know the host?” Depending on the type of party, you can offer to help the host. A simple: “Is there something I can help you with?” will give the host an opportunity to delegate a task if needed. Don’t Overstay Your Welcome As the evening winds down, take cues from the host. Has the dessert and coffee been served and eaten? Has the music been turned down or off? Has the host started clearing their plates? Depending on the formality of the party, you can offer to help clean up. If the host declines your offer, leave it as is. Don’t circumvent their wishes and start clearing the table. Also, make sure to thank the host before you leave. You don't want to be that guest who sneaks out without expressing gratitude. Even it's a casual party, search out the host before leaving. After the Party You can send them a quick text or give them a call the next day telling them how much you enjoyed the party. I also suggest sending a handwritten thank you note. It takes a little more effort, but it shows how much you appreciate the host and the work that went into putting on the party. I promise you will be invited back if you follow these simple steps!
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Trust me, email is not dead! In today's fast-paced digital world, email still remains a primary means of communication, especially in professional settings. However, how we manage our email interactions can make a big difference in how we are perceived by colleagues, clients, and potential partners. Email etiquette ensures that communication is clear, respectful, and professional. Here are some key aspects of email etiquette to keep in mind.  Response Time: How Quickly Should You Reply?
The appropriate response time for emails can vary based on your industry and role. However, as a general rule, aiming for a response within 24-48 hours is good practice. In some industries, like customer service or sales, an even quicker response may be expected. If you're unable to provide a complete response within this timeframe, acknowledge the email with a simple "Received" or let the sender know you'll follow up within a specified time ("I'll get back to you by [date/time]") shows respect for the sender's time and keeps communication flowing smoothly. When you provide a timeframe for follow-up, it's important to stick to it. This reliability builds trust and reflects positively on your professionalism. Crafting the Perfect Greeting Your email greeting sets the tone for your entire message. The formality of the greeting often depends on your industry and your relationship with the recipient. For example, in a corporate environment or when writing to someone you've never met, a more formal greeting like "Dear [Name]" or "Good morning [Name]" is appropriate. A slightly more casual greeting such as "Hi [Name]" may suffice for closer colleagues or clients with a good rapport. However, it's important to avoid overly informal greetings like "Hey," especially in professional settings, as they can come across as too casual or disrespectful. Email Signature Tips Your email signature is an extension of your professional brand. It's a helpful tool for providing the recipient with additional information about how to contact you and your role within the organization. At a minimum, your signature should include your full name, job title, company, phone number, and a link to your website or LinkedIn profile if relevant. Depending on your industry, you may also need to include additional information, such as your company's address or your professional license number. Also, make sure your signature is neat and easy to read—long or overly detailed signatures can be distracting. Ending with the Right Sign-Off Just as the greeting sets the tone, your email sign-off leaves a lasting impression. Consider the tone of your message when choosing a sign-off. For most professional emails, phrases such as "Best regards," "Sincerely," or "Thank you" are widely accepted. These phrases convey respect and professionalism, which ensures your email closes on a positive note. Finally, avoid overly casual or too personal sign-offs in professional emails, such as "Cheers" or "Take care," unless you're sure it fits the context. The "Reply All" Feature The "Reply All" function is one of the most misused features in email communication. While it can be helpful in certain collaborative environments, more often than not, it clutters inboxes and overwhelms recipients with information they may not need. Before hitting "Reply All," ask yourself: Does everyone on this email thread need to know my response? If not, it's best to reply directly to the original sender. Using "Reply All" only when necessary, will help you avoid unnecessary distractions for your colleagues and keep communication more streamlined. Following these simple but important email etiquette guidelines ensures your communication is professional, courteous, and effective. Four years ago, at the height of COVID, I wrote a LinkedIn article titled "Is the office Potluck Party a thing of the past?" At the time, at least at our office, any party was a no-go. Fast forward four years, and parties are back in session! One of my favorite types of parties is a potluck party because it is more relaxed and allows you to try a variety of yummy dishes. If you've never experienced one, it's a communal meal where guests bring food to share with the other guests. Here are some potluck party tips for both the host and the guest to ensure your next potluck is a pleasant experience for everyone.  Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro Potluck Host Etiquette
Planning The Potluck Consider providing a main course and having guests bring side dishes, desserts, and beverages. Also, decide whether you will provide the plates, cups, napkins, and utensils or ask a guest to bring these items. Handling Dietary Restrictions When inviting guests, ask about dietary restrictions to ensure there are options for everyone. If someone has very specific dietary needs, suggest they bring a dish they can eat and also be shared with others. What Guests Will Bring When guests ask what they can bring, have a list of items that will be needed: appetizer, salad, side dish, dessert, beverages, etc. Avoid dictating a specific recipe for an item. Instead, let guests decide what recipe they will bring. Have items on the list that will fit into budgets of all sizes. Remember that not everyone is a chef, and some items may be store-bought. Also, ensure there are enough serving utensils or ask attendees to bring them with their items. Leftovers If there are leftovers, ask the person who brought the item if you can offer them to other guests to take some home. Providing extra disposable containers for guests to take leftovers home is a nice gesture. Potluck Guest Etiquette RSVP Promptly RSVP as soon as possible so the host can plan accordingly. It's important to let them know if you're coming and what you'll be bringing to avoid duplicates. What to Bring If everyone is asked to bring a food item to share, bring something if possible. Remember, you don't have to bring a homemade item. It can be store-bought. When in doubt, ask the person organizing the party for suggestions. If the host has set a theme for the potluck (e.g., Mexican, BBQ, or holiday-themed), make sure your dish fits the theme. If you're unsure, ask for ideas. Ask About Dietary Restrictions Check with the host or organizer about any dietary restrictions or preferences among the attendees. Label your dish accordingly if it's gluten-free, vegetarian, or contains allergens like nuts. Also, label your dish and serving items if you want them back. Bring Enough for Everyone Be sure to bring enough food to share with the group. A good rule of thumb is to bring a dish that serves at least 8-10 people or the number the host suggests. Remember to bring appropriate serving utensils for your dish. Hosts may not have extras, and it avoids the hassle of trying to find something last-minute. Be Punctual One of my pet peeves is when someone shows up with a dish for a potluck party just as the event is winding down. Please arrive on time so the food can be set up properly, and the event can start smoothly. Arriving late can delay the meal and inconvenience the host. Offer To Help the Host Potlucks are collaborative events, so be proactive in offering to help with setup or cleanup to show appreciation for the host's efforts. Once the event is over, take responsibility for your dish. This includes bringing containers for leftovers and cleaning up any mess. Leftovers If there are leftovers, ask the host if they would like you to leave them or if someone else would like to take some home. This combination of tips will help you navigate the do's and don'ts of potluck gatherings while making it an enjoyable event for everyone. I'm so glad potlucks are back, are you? As summer draws to a close and the school bells ring again, many of us are preparing to transition from the leisurely pace of summer back to the rhythm of work. This is the perfect time to reset, refocus, and reevaluate our workplace etiquette. Whether you’re returning from a well-deserved break or simply adjusting to a post-summer schedule, here are some tips to help you smoothly ease back into the work mindset.  1. Recalibrate Your Routine
Coming back to work after a vacation or summer activities can feel overwhelming. To ease this transition, start by resetting your routine. Prioritize your tasks, set achievable goals for the first few days, and give yourself permission to ease back into full productivity. Remember, it’s not about sprinting back to the finish line but instead pacing yourself for long-term success. 2. Reevaluate Workplace Etiquette Now is a great time to reflect on your workplace behavior. Are there areas where you could improve? Consider how you interact with your colleagues, the respect you show for shared spaces, and how you contribute to the overall work environment. Small adjustments, like being more punctual or actively listening during meetings, can significantly impact how your co-workers perceive you. 3. Virtual Meeting Best Practices Virtual meetings are still a staple in many workplaces. To ensure you make the best impression, revisit the basics: dress appropriately, find a quiet and well-lit space, and mute your microphone when you’re not speaking. Additionally, be mindful of your body language and avoid multitasking—your colleagues can tell when your attention is divided. 4. Lunchroom Etiquette The lunchroom is a communal space that requires consideration and respect. Simple acts like cleaning up after yourself, not leaving food in the fridge for too long, and being mindful of strong-smelling foods can help maintain a pleasant environment for everyone. Also, remember that the lunchroom isn’t the place for work-related discussions—give yourself a proper break. 5. Promoting Workplace Positivity Finally, aim to contribute to a positive work environment. A simple “good morning,” a genuine compliment, or offering help to a colleague can create a supportive and motivating atmosphere. Positivity is contagious—spread it generously! As we transition back into the work mindset, let’s use this time to refresh our commitment to professionalism and kindness. By focusing on these aspects of workplace etiquette, we can ensure a smoother, more productive return for ourselves and our colleagues. Every time I end my Business Etiquette training classes, I leave my students with these three tips that will set them apart as a polished professional. In this blog post I explain what they are and why they are important:
 My Business Etiquette Workshop The Importance of Having a Professional Headshot
In today's digital age, a professional headshot is more important than ever. It's often the first impression you make, whether on your LinkedIn profile, company website, or social media. A polished, professional image helps you stand out and conveys reliability and competence. A professional headshot shows that you take your career seriously. It demonstrates a level of commitment to your personal brand and indicates to potential employers, clients, and colleagues that you value your professional image. This can be especially critical in fields where personal presentation is vital, such as consulting, sales, or public relations. Moreover, a professional headshot is an investment in your career. It allows you to present yourself in the best possible light, highlighting your confidence and approachability. A high-quality photo taken by a professional photographer can enhance your online presence and make your profile more attractive to recruiters and potential connections. The Importance of Having an Updated LinkedIn Profile LinkedIn has become an indispensable tool for professionals across all industries. An updated and current LinkedIn profile serves as your online resume and networking tool, showcasing your skills, achievements, and experiences to a global audience. Keeping your LinkedIn profile current is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that all your professional information is accurate and up-to-date, making it easier for recruiters and potential employers to find you. A complete and updated profile also has the potential to increase your visibility on the platform. People are more inclined to connect with someone who has a complete profile with a professional photo. An up-to-date LinkedIn profile also helps you stay connected with your professional network. It allows you to share your latest achievements, projects, or industry insights, keeping you relevant and top-of-mind among your connections. Regular updates and engagement on LinkedIn can lead to new opportunities, whether it be job offers, collaborations, or speaking engagements. The Importance of Writing Thank You Notes In our fast-paced digital world, the simple act of writing a thank you note can make a significant impact. Whether it's following an interview, after receiving a gift, or simply acknowledging someone's effort, a thank you note is a powerful tool for building and maintaining relationships. Writing a thank you note shows appreciation and respect. It conveys that you value the other person's time, effort, and consideration. This can strengthen professional relationships and leave a lasting positive impression. In a job search, sending a thank you note after an interview can differentiate you from other candidates and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position. Furthermore, thank you notes reflect good manners and professionalism. They show that you are thoughtful and considerate, which are highly valued qualities in any professional setting. Whether handwritten or emailed, a well-crafted thank you note is a timeless gesture that speaks volumes about your character and attention to detail. In conclusion, the importance of maintaining a professional headshot, an updated LinkedIn profile, and writing thank you notes cannot be overstated. These elements are fundamental to professional etiquette and can significantly enhance your career prospects and as well as your professional relationships.  Summer is the season for outdoor gatherings and sun-soaked celebrations. Whether you're attending a barbecue, a swim party, or a beach party, certain etiquette guidelines can help you navigate these events with grace and poise. Here's your comprehensive guide to summer party etiquette.
Swim Parties Bring Your Essentials: Pack your swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and any other personal items you might need. Don't assume your host will provide these for you. Follow Pool Rules: Respect the pool rules set by the host. This includes showering before entering the pool if requested, not running on the deck, and not diving in shallow areas. Supervise Children: If you're bringing children, keep an eye on them at all times. Ensure they follow pool safety rules and don't disturb other guests. Be Considerate: Keep noise levels down, especially if the pool area is close to the house or neighboring properties. Avoid roughhousing or splash fights that could bother others. Dry Off: Before entering the house from the pool area, dry off thoroughly to avoid dripping water inside. Bring an extra towel for this purpose if needed. Respect Privacy: If the host has a designated changing area, use it. Don't assume you can change in any bathroom without asking your host. Be Mindful of Music: If you're in charge of music, keep the volume at a reasonable level. Choose a playlist that suits the mood and is appropriate for all ages present. Barbecue Parties RSVP Promptly: As soon as you receive an invitation, respond promptly. This helps your host with planning and ensures they have enough food and seating for everyone. Dietary Restrictions: If you have dietary restrictions, inform your host in advance. Offer to bring a dish you can enjoy, relieving some of the pressure on your host. Offer To Bring Something: Even if it's not an official potluck party, offering something is nice. Some suggestions could be a salad, side dish, dessert, or beverage. And remember, it doesn't have to be homemade. Quality store-bought items can be just as tasty. Dress Appropriately: Barbecue parties are typically casual, but neat and clean attire is a must. Think sundresses, shorts, and polo shirts. Avoid anything too revealing or sloppy. Be Punctual: Arrive on time or within the first 15 minutes of the start time. If you're running late, let your host know. Bring a Hostess Gift: A small token of appreciation, like a bottle of wine, chocolates, or a specialty barbecue sauce, is always a nice gesture. Participate and Help: Offer to assist with setting up, serving, or cleaning up. Even if your host declines, they will appreciate the offer. Mind Your Table Manners: Eat politely and avoid overloading your plate. Wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal, and compliment the cook. Socialize: Make an effort to mingle and talk with other guests. Don't just stick with people you know. Clean Up After Yourself: Dispose of your trash properly, and if you've brought any items (like a dish to share), make sure to take them home or ask your host what they'd prefer. Don't Overstay Your Welcome: Take cues from the host and other guests when it's time to leave. Beach Parties Respect the Environment: Leave no trace. Clean up after yourself, dispose of trash properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Bring extra sunscreen to share with others who might need it. Personal Space: Be mindful of others' space on the beach. Set up your area at a respectful distance from other groups, especially if the beach is crowded. When shaking out your towel, move away from the others to avoid getting sand on them. Swim Safely: Adhere to local swimming guidelines and lifeguard instructions. Swim only in designated areas and be aware of currents and tides. Hydrate and Snack Wisely: Bring plenty of water and healthy snacks. Avoid leaving food uncovered, as it can attract birds and insects. Respect Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with and follow any local beach regulations, such as restrictions on fires, glass bottles, or pets. Be Considerate with Music: If you bring a speaker, keep the volume at a level that won't disturb others. Choose beach-appropriate music that everyone can enjoy. Join in Activities: Participate in beach games or activities and invite others to join. It's a great way to socialize and enjoy the day together. End on a Positive Note: As the day winds down, help pack up and ensure the beach area is clean. Thank your host for organizing the event and bid farewell to other guests. By following these etiquette tips, you can ensure a pleasant and respectful experience for yourself and others at any summer party. Enjoy the season, make lasting memories, and remember that a little courtesy goes a long way in making every gathering enjoyable for all.  My graduation in 2014! Graduation season is a time of celebration and achievement for many. As an etiquette teacher, I often encounter questions about the finer points of graduation etiquette, particularly regarding the distinction between graduation announcements and invitations, as well as the protocol surrounding gifts. Let's delve into these topics to ensure your participation in this milestone event is both graceful and considerate.
Graduation Announcement vs. Invitation A graduation announcement is a formal notification of the graduate's accomplishment and should be sent after graduation. It informs friends, family, and acquaintances of the individual's academic milestone, often including details such as the graduate's name, degree earned, school attended, and sometimes a brief personal message. Unlike invitations, announcements do not imply an obligation to attend any ceremony or event. They are simply a courteous way of sharing the good news. On the other hand, a graduation invitation is a request for the recipient's presence at the commencement ceremony or any related celebratory event. Invitations typically include details such as the date, time, and location of the ceremony and any additional instructions or RSVP information. If you receive a graduation invitation, it signifies that the graduate sincerely hopes you can join them in celebrating this significant moment in their life. Gift Giving Etiquette One common question surrounding graduation announcements is whether sending a gift upon receiving one is necessary. While gifts are not obligatory in response to an announcement, it's a thoughtful gesture to acknowledge the graduate's achievement, particularly if they are a close friend or family member. If a gift is not in your budget, a handwritten note expressing your congratulations and best wishes can be just as meaningful. If you receive a graduation invitation and choose to attend the ceremony or event, etiquette suggests bringing a gift as a token of your support and congratulations. The gift need not be extravagant. It should reflect your relationship with the graduate and your desire to commemorate their accomplishment. Graduation Gift Ideas When selecting a graduation gift, consider the graduate's interests, future plans, and practical needs. Also, establish a budget that works for you and stick with it. Here are some thoughtful and appropriate gift ideas to inspire you:
Remember, the most essential aspect of gift-giving is the thought and sentiment behind it. Whether you choose a tangible gift or a heartfelt message, the graduate will sincerely appreciate your gesture of congratulations. Congratulations to all the graduates, and best wishes for the journey ahead!  Responding To Awkward Questions
Having you ever been asked an awkward question and were so caught off guard that you didn’t know how to respond? These questions tend to be common at family gatherings, but they can also pop up in work or social situations. The questions can run the gamut from your relationship status to your finances and everything in between. Handling awkward questions gracefully is an essential skill. Here are some tips to keep in mind the next time someone pops that awkward question. Stay Calm and Composed Maintain your composure, regardless of how uncomfortable the question makes you feel. Taking a deep breath can help you stay focused and composed. Take a Beat Take a moment to think before you speak. This pause can help you gather your thoughts and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Redirect the Conversation If the question is too personal or inappropriate, gently steer the conversation in a different direction. You can do this by acknowledging the question briefly and then shifting the focus to a related but more comfortable topic: “Let’s talk about something more interesting than my love life….What are your plans for the summer?” Set Boundaries It's okay to set boundaries and let the other person know if a question is off-limits. You can do this politely by saying something like, "I prefer not to discuss that topic" or "I'm not comfortable answering that question." Use Humor Sometimes, a well-placed joke or a lighthearted response can diffuse tension and make the situation less awkward. Just be sure that your humor is appropriate for the context and the situation. An example of using humor for the question “How much money do you make?” could be “Why, are you going to ask me for a loan?” [light chuckle] Again, this response would only be appropriate with certain people and situations. Practice Empathy Try to understand where the other person is coming from and why they might be asking the question. Responding with empathy can help defuse tension and promote understanding. When a person asks how much something cost, it could be because they are considering making a similar purchase. You could respond to a question about the cost of something with “Why do you ask?” or “Are you in the market for this same thing?” Know When to End the Conversation If the questions become too invasive or uncomfortable, it's okay to politely end the conversation or excuse yourself from the situation altogether. Prepare If you know you’re heading into a situation where a certain person is going to be asking you an awkward question, prepare your come backs in advance. By putting these tips into practice, you can navigate awkward questions with grace and confidence while maintaining respect for yourself and others. Remember, not every awkward question will have a comfortable ending and that’s okay! Embrace the awkward moment, learn from it and laugh about it later.  Hydrangeas in my garden As March unfolds, it brings Spring along with it the promise of renewal and rejuvenation. Just as nature begins to awaken from its winter slumber, it's an ideal time for us to refresh our own lives, including our etiquette skills. Spring is a season of growth, and what better way to grow than by enhancing our interactions with others through refined manners and social grace? In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of spring renewal in the context of etiquette as well as offer practical tips for refreshing your etiquette skills.
The Essence of Spring Renewal Spring is synonymous with new beginnings. It's a time when the world bursts forth with vibrant colors, the air is filled with the fragrance of blooming flowers, and there's a palpable sense of energy and optimism in the atmosphere. Just as we welcome the arrival of spring by cleaning our homes and planting seeds for the future, we can also take this opportunity to renew our commitment to practicing good etiquette. Reflecting on Your Etiquette Practices Before diving into specific tips for refreshing your etiquette skills, take a moment to reflect on your current practices. Are there areas where you could improve? Are there habits you've developed that may be hindering your interactions with others? Self-awareness is the first step towards growth, so be honest with yourself about areas where you could use some refinement. Tips for Refreshing Your Etiquette Skills: Polish Your Social Manners With the arrival of spring comes a flurry of social gatherings, from outdoor picnics to garden parties. Brush up on your social manners by practicing active listening, maintaining eye contact, and engaging in thoughtful conversation. Remember to be gracious and considerate towards your fellow guests, and always express gratitude to your hosts. An in-person thank you is important and I always like to follow it up with a handwritten thank you note. Update Your Professional Etiquette In the professional realm, spring is an opportune time to reassess your workplace etiquette. Whether it's improving your email communication, refining your networking skills, or enhancing your dining etiquette for business meetings, strive to present yourself with professionalism and respect in all your interactions. Cultivate Empathy and Kindness Spring renewal isn't just about external actions; it's also about nurturing our internal qualities. Take time to cultivate empathy and kindness towards others. Practice putting yourself in someone else's shoes, and approach every interaction with a genuine desire to understand and connect with those around you. Embrace Digital Etiquette In today's digital age, etiquette extends beyond face-to-face interactions to include online communication as well. Use this season of renewal to revisit your digital etiquette practices. Practice courteous and respectful behavior in your emails, social media interactions, and other online communications. One specific thing I try to do is when I’m sending a text or email. Before I hit the “send” button, I review it to see if there is an opportunity for me to add the word “please” somewhere in the communication. There almost always is. As we embrace the spirit of spring renewal, let us also embrace the opportunity to refresh our etiquette skills. By polishing our social manners, updating our professional etiquette, cultivating empathy and kindness, and embracing digital etiquette, we can enhance our interactions with others and foster deeper connections in both our personal and professional lives. So, let's welcome the arrival of spring with open arms and a renewed commitment to practicing good etiquette. If you need some assistance polishing any of these skills, I offer both in-person and virtual classes. Please see my website for details.  Photo Courtesy of Canva Pro Networking is a necessary approach to making connections and building relationships in your business or career. It can be a bit intimidating if you’ve never done it before. One of the keys to your success is to do some advanced preparation. Here are some tips I teach in my business etiquette courses that will help give you more confidence as you walk into that room to network.
Establish a Goal Have a goal in mind as to what you want to achieve at the event.
Nametags Wear your name tag to a networking event. It will be much easier for people to remember your name, especially if they are a visual person. If you don’t have a nametag, many events provide name tags at the check in table. If you plan to be networking often, invest in a name tag. Place your nametag on your right side. The reason for this is when you extend your right hand to greet someone their eyes will be drawn up to your nametag. Ideally, this will help them remember your name as you introduce yourself. Especially if it’s a noisy room. Where to Begin Walking up to a group of people you don’t know can be intimidating. As you look across the room observe the body language of people. Look at the way they are standing. Do they appear to be open to someone joining their group? Or are they standing with their bodies facing one another and give the appearance that they do not want someone joining their group. Instead of approaching the “closed” group to introduce yourself, look for a group that has their bodies positioned at a slight angle where they appear “open” to someone coming up and joining them. Conversation Starters Have some conversation starters in mind before you go to the event. I know this may sound silly, but this preparation will give you confidence. As you approach the group, have those conversation starters and questions ready to go. Here are some examples:
From there the conversation should start to flow. See this earlier post for more information about Conversation Skills to use at a networking event. Business Cards Always bring your business cards to a networking event. Carry them in a business card holder to prevent them from smudging or creasing. You can get reasonably priced holders on Amazon in a variety of colors. For an extra touch, get a holder that matches your brand colors. Keep your business card holder in an easily accessible place so you don’t have to fumble to get your card out. Wait for someone to ask you for your card rather than walking around the room handing out your card to everyone you meet. Also, asking for someone’s card is a great way to end a conversation. See below for more tips on ending a conversation. When handing someone your business card, have it face up with the words facing them. When someone gives you their card, look at it, ask any questions about it and then put it away carefully and treat it with respect. Customs around business cards vary from country to country so brush up on any protocol before traveling abroad. Ending A Conversation Ending a conversation at a networking event can be a little awkward at first. Again, this is where the preparation comes in. Have some go-to phrases to help you end the conversation. Remember, you, and the other person are there to network. You don’t want to monopolize someone’s time plus you want to meet the goal you established. Here are some examples of phrases for ending a conversation:
Develop your own phrases that make sense for you as well as the situation and have them at the back of your mind ready to go when needed. The best way to get better and more comfortable at networking is to just do it! |
About SuzySuzy Lins is a certified etiquette trainer located in Southern California. Educating on manners and etiquette to help people gain confidence to master business and social situations is the core of her teaching. Categories
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