Latest "Etiquette Tips" Posts
November 24, 2020
The holidays are the perfect time to show colleagues and clients how grateful you are for their hard work and support. With a few simple tips you can gift like a pro, even during COVID.
The biggest question I get this time of year is always, “How much do I spend?” I advise spending no more than the tax credit allowed in your country for professional gifts. For example, in the U.S., the IRS allows a $25 tax deduction for each professional gift.
Your Boss
Ask around to see if there is anything in the company’s rules or in the employee handbook that discourages giving your boss a gift. If others see “gifting up” as a no-no, suggest a gift from the team. If you do go solo, good options include a donation to their favorite charity, a bottle of wine (make sure they drink alcohol!), or a gift certificate to a local small business. And don’t blow your budget trying to impress them — expensive gifts can be awkward.
Your Team/Support Staff
If you manage others, choose gifts that show that you see them as individuals, not just as employees. I like giving gift cards to their favourite store or restaurant, or for activities they love. Gear for hobbies like golf balls, books, fishing flies, or art supplies are also a nice choice. Or upgrade their workspace with a beautiful leather notebook, fancy water bottle, or essential oil diffuser. A handwritten note of thanks that touches on their unique talents or contributions is a must.
Your Co-Workers
Again, feel out the culture for this one. Do others typically gift? Do they organize an activity like a Secret Santa or gift swap? Read the Your Team section above for gift suggestions. Give gifts discreetly so others do not feel left out. And if a co-worker surprises you with an unexpected gift, offer a heartfelt thank you and leave it at that. Scrambling to reciprocate could be seen as insincere.
Other Colleagues
If you want to spread good cheer to colleagues you like but don’t work with directly, bring in a tray of store-bought treats or special nuts, etc. for everyone to share. Avoid home-made goodies this year do to Covid-19 transmission concerns.
Secret Santa, Dirty Santa, or Yankee Swap
Forget gag gifts. Period. Instead, buy something you would like. Gift cards, coffee, wine, and food are all great ideas. Most likely, office Christmas parties will be on hold for this season anyways.
Clients
Make sure there isn’t a policy at your company or theirs that precludes you from giving a gift. Rules like these seek to prevent bribery and favoritism. Also, check to see if your company buys a quantity of gifts to send clients (for example, fruit baskets). The gift suggestions in the Your Boss section also work well here.
Most importantly, no matter who you are buying for, keep in mind the following:
- Choose gifts that reflect their personality and show that you have spent some time thinking about what they will enjoy or impact them in a positive fashion.
- Keep within your budget.
- Send the gift giver a thank you note or a Christmas card thanking them for their gift.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Business, Personal development, Business Etiquette, Etiquette Tips
September 4, 2020
Remember the days when dining out meant socializing, networking, or just enjoying a pleasant experience? These days, our restaurant meals have to be so much more than that — they have to be a safe experience for everyone involved, from patrons to waitstaff to the chefs in the kitchen.
Health and safety has to come first if we’re to beat the virus and keep our beloved restaurants open. A COVID-19 case can shut down an establishment and threaten lives and livelihoods. How can you accept this responsibility while still using your dollars to support your favorite restaurant? As with so much in life, it comes down to etiquette: Show respect for others by following the rules.
Tip #1 – Stay home if you are not feeling well
You might be asking, “Shouldn’t this go without saying?” But after months of staying at home, it’s so easy to write off a little nagging cough or a tickle in your throat for the promise of social interaction and a delicious meal. If you have even the slightest suspicion that your health isn’t 100 percent, stay home.
Tip #2 – Bring your phone
For years, I’ve been advising clients to avoid their phones while dining to remain fully present. But the pandemic has upended even my most hard-and-fast rules! Your phone is now a multi-use tool: You can use it for contact-less payment or to order (we’ll get to that in a second). Just be sure to clean it properly when you get home.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Edge, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Covid-19, Masks, dining, restaurants, QR code reader, sanitizer, pandemic, Corona virus
December 17, 2019
We all know that a thank-you card traditionally is expected after we receive a gift. This simple act might be less common than it used to be, but that doesn’t mean it’s less appreciated.
I believe thank-you notes are just as important as the gifts themselves. After all, don’t we give to delight our friends and loved ones or express our gratitude? A well-written thank-you note brings gift-giving full circle.
Four steps to crafting a simple, beautiful note
- In the first sentence, say “thank you for” and state the gift you’ve been given. Example: Thank you for the wine glasses you gave me at the holiday party.
- Next, express a further detailed appreciation by remarking on qualities about the gift. Example: The glasses have already found a home on our dining room table. They look so elegant next to our everyday dishes!
- Share specific reasons why you like the gift. Example: I love to entertain, and can’t wait to show them off the next time we have friends over for a wine and cheese get-together.
- In the closing sentence, sign it pleasantly and friendly. And you can even add “Thanks again!” before your signature.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Personal development, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Christmas, holiday, gratitude, thank you cards, thanks
December 3, 2019
You’ve got the office holiday party invitation and the date is around the corner. What do you wear? Should you come alone? Are you thinking about taking a pass? After all, you see the same people everyday — right? Here are some tips that answer the why and how of office party etiquette so that you can face your boss on the Monday:
Say yes to the invitation
If you are wondering if you should go or not – that answer is Go! Your absence will be noticed! If you have never met the CEO or President, introduce yourself. This is a good opportunity to influence your career.
Single or Double?
Find out if the invitation is for you alone or does it provide the opportunity to bring a guest. If the invitation does not say, check with your manager or HR department before you attend. If the answer is yes, make sure the person you invite is someone who will comfortably mingle without you during the evening.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Business, Etiquette Tips and tagged Christmas, Christmas party, office holiday party, work party, workplace
November 23, 2019
During the #Christmas holidays, my high school girlfriends (yes, high school) and our spouses get together for a holiday party. We rotate homes with each couple taking a turn at holiday hosting every five years. When I say ‘hosting’ I mean the host prepares a main dish and the rest bring sides. Easy-peezy, right? When Lesley’s turn rolls around, she starts to hyperventilate just thinking about hosting. What main course could she cook for 10 people — especially with two-months notice?
Hosting a seasonal holiday party for your high school gang should cause zero stress. Being best buds for 40 years means you ought to be able to serve leftover lasagna from five days ago and everybody will still love you! Below are four ways to make sure the dinner is stress free for the host and comfortable for the holidays guest.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Tips and tagged Christmas, holiday, party planning, hosting, party, dinner party
October 22, 2019
I have a question for the women reading this: When was the last time you did something special for yourself?
Not a vacation with your family that you had to plan and manage — an actual getaway, just for you.
If you can’t remember, you’re not alone. Women disproportionately bear the unrelenting stress of trying to get ahead in business while managing the home. This mindset doesn’t just affect mothers and women in relationships, though — many of us, regardless of our home lives, also assume those tasks at work.
How do you know when you need a break? If the following rings true to you, it’s time.
Your creativity has dried up
Creativity is a battery that needs to be recharged. When was the last time you visited a museum or enjoyed connecting with the outdoors? When did you last create something just for the sake of creating?
You feel like you can’t connect
Women tend to put their own social needs on the back burner. Instead of recharging with friends over a glass of wine or meeting up with a running club before work, we tend to focus on making sure the people around us are OK. And yet studies show that people who cultivate their relationships live longer, happier lives.
You’re tired all the time
Women are more likely to suffer from insomnia than men — an astounding 57 percent of us report we experience insomnia at least a few nights a week. Without proper rest, we simply can’t handle the rest of our lives. It’s as simple as that.
You find yourself fantasizing about winning the lottery. A lot.
When your thoughts veer from daydreaming to escapist thinking, it’s a warning sign. Allowing yourself to indulge in too much escapism can create a cycle of low productivity and burnout.
If you see yourself in that list, consider recharging your battery with my Bike, Barge, and Bond 2020 River Cruise through the Netherlands and Belgium from Aug. 14-22, 2020. It’s a chance to forgo the usual madcap tourist dash for the slower pace of a bike and river barge. You’ll experience the Netherlands and Belgium propelled by your own power, with plenty of time to savor each new sight and sensation. During the evening, you’ll enjoy cultural walks, engage in thoughtful conversations, and learn how to maximize your potential.
By the end of the river cruise, you will have traveled from Brussels to Amsterdam and rediscovered your sense of adventure. This is a chance to do something for yourself, to recharge your creative juices, and to meet other fascinating women.
Space is limited to only 18 women, so sign up now — these spots will go fast! I hope you take this opportunity to carve out time for yourself.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Travel, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette, Just for Fun and tagged Amsterdam canal, travel, personal growth, cycling, women, bike & barge, Amsterdam, Belgium, river cruise
October 15, 2019
Weddings are probably the most common event where #toasting etiquette comes into play. The emcee, the groom, the best man, the person toasting the bride and even from the bride herself may give toasts. We’ve heard them all, from exceptional toasts to the worst toasts. My work associate told me about her wedding 26 years ago when the best man stood up to toast the bridesmaids. “The bridesmaids look lovely and the food was good.” Wow, OK. Not the worst toast I have ever heard, but certainly not the most exceptional or memorable.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Business, Personal development, Uncategorized, Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Tips, Wedding Etiquette and tagged toasting etiquette, wedding, Toasting, emcee
February 6, 2019
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and many of you are probably planning a romantic night for your loved one. Valentine’s Day means different things to different people – depending on how long you’ve been together and how serious the relationship is. Traditionally, it means chocolate, flowers or a romantic evening out at an upscale restaurant. This time-honoured tradition can usually fit into most budgets but planning a romantic evening can also be memorable if you consider what your partner really enjoys but does not get to do as often as they like.
Planning a personalized Valentine’s Day outing shows that you took the time to organize a day or night out that is meaningful to them. Cooking his favourite meal with soft music playing in the background is very romantic. Make the evening special by getting dressed up, lighting some candles and setting the table with your best china. Perhaps a picnic in the park with her favourite dishes and a nice bottle of wine followed up by activity she enjoys like cycling or visiting an antique market nearby. Handmade cards and love letters tucked in the picnic basket would be a great hit! E-cards by Hallmark and Blue Mountain are also a good option. Just keep the presents like that new car battery for another occasion!
If you choose to go the traditional
route of dining out, keep these tips in mind:
- Make reservations early: If you have a favourite restaurant
that you would like to take your romantic partner to then don’t wait until the
last minute to book that reservation. Chances are that if it’s your favourite,
then it’s other peoples as well as you don’t want to be caught having nowhere
to share your special evening.
- Be on time: Valentine’s Day is not the time to be
late. Make sure you are on time to pick up your date or be on time at the
restaurant.
- Turn your cell phones off: It goes without saying that you should
always give your date your undivided attention, and most especially on such a
romantic day as Valentine’s Day. Turn your cell phones off—and leave them off
the table–so you’re not tempted to check sports scores during dinner or your
favourite food blog!
- Mind your table manners: As with any time you’re sharing a meal
with someone, be sure to bring along your best table manners. Chewing with your
mouth open or shoveling food into your mouth is NOT romantic. Place your napkin
with the fold towards your body and keep the used side between the fold.
- Fine Dining Knowledge: If you are at a five-star restaurant
for the first time, perhaps check out the menu ahead of time. This is
especially true if it’s a cuisine that you are unfamiliar with or the menu has
items written in French! Not only will you learn about any signature dishes,
but taking that extra step learning how to pronounce the menu items will earn
you extra bonus points with your date and show that you took the time to do so.
- For the men: Remember the simple things, like
opening the door for her, helping her with her coat, and pulling out her chair
for her if the wait staff don’t do it for her.
- Who pays? Many women are still looking for
that knight in shining armor–chivalry is desirable. However, modern etiquette
dictates that whoever extended the invitation should be the one picking up the
tab.
If there is not currently a romantic
partner in your life, you can always participate in this year’s Random Acts of
Kindness Day on Feb 17, 2019 . There are various categories you can choose from to
pass along kindness to others.
Wishing you all a very happy (and romantic) Valentine’s Day! Do you have a favorite Valentine’s Day memory you’d like to share? We’d love to hear it!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Valentines Day, Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Tips
January 18, 2019
Competition is fierce in today’s job market. Quite often, job seekers find themselves competing with up to 100 other people, hoping to be short-listed for the interviews.
That’s why it takes more than just skills and education to land a great job. Qualifications can get you an interview – but class can get you the job. Get properly prepared for the interview using these important tips:
- Research your potential employer, the industry, and any recent developments or initiatives. Commit a few key facts to memory and mention them when the opportunity appears.
- Learn what you can about the interviewer(s). Study their social media profiles if you can to find out more about their background, interests and employment history. Find some commonality!
- Select your outfit the day before, making sure it is clean, pressed, fits well and flatters. Refrain from wearing anything low cut, short, tight. If you’re unsure about the dress code, dress “up” rather than “down” (i.e., dress a more formal way rather than a more casual way).
- Be freshly groomed, including nails, hair and face – and remember, no fragrances.
- Make sure the vehicle you drive to yours interviews is clean. Some employers view how you maintain your car as a reflection of how you’ll take care of their tools or equipment.
- Familiarize yourself with your destination so you are sure to arrive as scheduled.
- Arrive early enough to make a quick stop at the rest room to check your hair, teeth, and clothing.
- This is a given, but make sure you know your resume inside and out.
- Use the product/service ahead of time if this is appropriate.
Each step sets you up to feel relaxed and confident when the pressure is on. Interviews will be much easier to get through if you are prepared.
Next week: Sharpen Your Interview Skills
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Posted by Margaret Page in Interviews, Business Etiquette, Communication, Etiquette Tips and tagged Interview, Jobs, Employment, Employer, compensation, Job Search
January 11, 2019
Trying to lose those extra holiday pounds from all the seasonal holiday parties and events? You are not alone! Health clubs and gyms are busier than ever. If you are new to the gym, or it’s been a while, here are some gym etiquette tips to consider that will make your workout more meaningful and productive.
So what’s the biggest etiquette pet peeve of a typical gym-goer? Leaving the equipment sweaty.
No one wants to grip the handlebars of an elliptical machine only to find it damp and slippery! My best advice is to bring your own personal towel with you and wipe down the machines when you’re finished. Put your towel on a bench where possible. If you don’t have a towel, know where the paper towels are located and take some with you before you begin your routine. Many gyms have spray bottles filled with cleaning solution and encourage members to take the time to clean up after themselves.
I was at a class recently and the instructor was wearing a sweaty handkerchief on his head. My first thought was, “Gross.” But then I realized that he was actually using good manners by wearing the headband. It was a vigorous class and by wearing the handkerchief on his head, all the sweat was absorbed in the fabric, instead of tossed around at the class!
Other gym protocols include:
- Wear appropriate workout Attire. Gym clothing that is explicit and exposes the front or the back is unacceptable. Secondly, make sure your attire is freshly laundered ~ nobody wants to small last week’s workout on you.
- Put your cell phone away. Respect those around you by leaving your cell phone in the car or your handbag when working out. Some health clubs and gyms have regulations against bringing your phones inside—especially since we have camera phones now! Leave the selfie for your next party instead.
- Take turns on the equipment. Set yourself a timer if the gym is extra busy. Be aware of others who are waiting to use the equipment. Don’t linger close to another gym patron hoping they will get the hint and move to another station.
- Unless you are staff or a personal trainer, don’t offer advice. Nobody wants to be told they are using equipment incorrectly. If another patron asks you something specific, that’s one thing, but don’t offer unsolicited suggestions.
- Avoid staring. Gyms are usually full of people with nice physiques who have taken good care of themselves. Try not to stare ~ focus on yourself and your routine.
- Return weights/equipment back where they belong. When you’re through with your weight lifting routine, put the dumbbells (or other equipment) back in their proper place. Not only is it good etiquette but helps staff to keep things more organized.
- Skip the perfume. Many people are sensitive to particular fragrances. In close quarters, like the gym, keep it clean and fresh. A little deodorant goes a long way!
- Share the water fountain.You need to stay hydrated when working out, but if your water bottle needs refilling, let people who are waiting for a quick sip go ahead of you.
- Keep the volume down. Exercising to the sounds of your latest music downloads is fun—and it makes the time go by so much faster—but not everyone wants to hear your latest playlist. Ensure you are using earbuds during your workout.
- Be on time. If a class has already started, you’re too late. If you have to leave early, notify your instructor in advance and slip out quietly.
Going to the gym should be an invigorating experience—not an aggravating one. Be courteous of other members at all times to make the gym experience pleasant for you and for fellow gym-goers.
Happy training!
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Posted by Margaret Page in Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Gym, Workout
