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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
December 11, 2018
Christmas cards are big business. Nearly 2 billion holiday cards will be purchased, addressed and mailed this Christmas season alone. From family, friends, and neighbors to work associates, clients and customers, virtually everyone is caught in the holiday card frenzy whether they celebrate the season or not.
But, like any type of correspondence, there are a few etiquette rules that apply when sending out those winter greetings. Here are a few tips from the experts:
For Friends and Family:
Even if you are using pre-printed holiday cards for both personal and business use, it’s important to always sign your name below the printed version and write a small handwritten note inside to make the recipient feel as if you truly thought of them this holiday season. When signing for the entire family, always begin with the father’s name, followed by the mother’s and finally he children, or simply write “John, Mary and Family.”
When sending a card to a couple or family with two different last names, always address the card to both people: John Smith and Mary Jones, or the entire family as in Mary Jones, John Smith and Family. And, always include the children’s name inside every family card.
For Business Associates:
Always mail cards to business associates to the office unless you have met their spouse and met with them socially at some point during the year. Then the cards may be addressed to both and sent to their home.
When sending a card to a married woman who uses her maiden name at work, always address the card to Mr. and Mrs. (using her married name), if she uses her husband’s name personally. If, however, she only uses her maiden name, it is acceptable to address the card to both using both recipients full names.
Business cards should always be written in a more formal and secular style. Never sign your spouse’s name unless the recipient has met them in a social gathering. And never, under any circumstances send your personal family newsletter to business associates.
Finally, even if you are sending out hundreds of holiday cards to a variety of business associates, never use bulk mail. Always send them first class.
Special Circumstances:
Every time you send out a holiday greeting, you mean well. Unfortunately, sometimes your good intentions may be misunderstood. To avoid any etiquette slips remember these important tips:
-When sending a card to someone with a different ethnic or religious background, choose a more secular card that is free of religious undertones. For those who don’t celebrate the holidays at all, opt for a winter scene card with a basic Season’s Greetings, Happy Holidays or message of Peace.
-In the event your recipient’s are grieving the loss of a loved one this year, take special care to find a card that specifically deals with holiday grief. They’ll appreciate your extra thoughtfulness and assure them that their loved one has not been forgotten this holiday season. Also, when sending a card to a recent widow, always address her as “Mrs. So and so to make her feel less alone.
The 8 Rules of Business Greeting Card Etiquette
Buy Quality Cards: Start with a good quality business greeting card to show that you value your clients and colleagues. Skimping on your selection can be interpreted in a number of ways. Your recipients might take it as a sign that business has not been good or that they aren’t worth a little investment.
Update Your List: Make sure your list is up-to-date with correct names and addresses. If you do this on a regular basis, it does not become a dreaded holiday chore. As you gain new contacts throughout the year, take time to add them to your database for your business greeting card group. This way you won’t embarrass yourself by sending the card to the old address.
Sign Cards Personally: Even if you have pre-printed information on the business greeting card such as your name, you need to add your handwritten signature. The most elegant business greeting cards should have your personal signature and a short handwritten message.
Handwrite the Address: If you are ready to throw up your hands at this point and forget the whole project, then have someone else address the envelopes for you. Don’t use computer-generated labels. They are impersonal and make your holiday wishes look like a mass mailing. You may save time and even money, but can lose a client in the process.
Mail to Home Address: Mail your business greeting card to the home if you know the small business owner. Be sure to include the spouse’s name. The card is not sent to both husband and wife at the business address unless they both work there.
Use Titles: Whether you are addressing the envelope to an individual or a couple, titles should always be used. It’s “Mr. John Doe,” not “John Doe,” or “Mr. and Mrs. John Doe, rather that “John and Mary Doe.”
Be Sensitive to Traditions: Find out whether your business greeting card recipients observe Christmas, Hanukah, or Kwanzaa. Make sure your message is appropriate for each individual. If you decide to go with one card, choose a generic one that will not offend. “Season’s Greetings” and “Happy Holidays” are safe bets.
Avoid the Mail Rush: Mail your business greeting cards in time to arrive for the designated holiday. If you find yourself addressing the envelopes on Super Bowl Sunday, keep the cards until next year and send out a high-quality note thanking people for their business during the previous year instead. To avoid the last minute greeting rush is to have all your envelopes addressed before Thanksgiving. Then during December you can leisurely write a short message – one or two lines are all that is necessary on each card, sign your name and have them in the mail with a minimum of hassle.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Etiquette Tips and tagged Christmas, Christmas Cards, Gain Confidence, Class and Communication Skills with Etiquette Products
December 5, 2018
It’s that time of year again. Holiday office party season is in full swing and even though the word “party” is in the phrase, it’s important to remember that holiday office parties are still business functions.
To ensure that you’re not afraid to face your co-workers the next day, here are a few office party etiquette tips to keep in mind:
Do accept the invitation
The first piece of advice when it comes to holiday office parties is this: Go! Your absence will be noticed!
Know what to wear
It can be tough to strike the right balance between festive and appropriate when it comes to what to wear to the office party, however, the time, location and details on the invitation will give you a sense of what to wear.
For example: If your boss is hosting an “Ugly Sweater Party,” then the answer to that question is pretty simple. But, if your company is hosting an evening party at a local hotel or restaurant, formal attire is more appropriate. And ladies, this is not the time to show off your cleavage. Keep it simple and classy. Whatever you choose to wear will reflect on you professionally. When in doubt, ask your host or hostess about the event’s dress code.
Eating
So that you’re not spending all your time at the snack table, my advice is to have a light snack before the party. This is also helpful if you plan on drinking at the party. When at the party, use common sense when it comes to filling (or over-filling your plate) — the hors d’oevre plate will give you an indication of how much to eat. You’re there for business, not for the food.
Drinking
If you drink alcohol at the party, know your limits. Or set yourself a cap of just one drink for the evening and then switch to a non-alcoholic drink. I always tell people this, “Drink half as much, and you’ll have twice as much fun.” Remember, you’re at a work function and even a small amount of alcohol can loosen your inhibitions and lead you to do things you may regret the next day. Make sure you have planned how you are getting home after the event if you have a drink or two; like pre-arranging for a cab or your local ride-sharing company. If your employer is large enough, they may even allow you to expense your fare.
Conversations
This is a good time to get to know people you don’t work with on a daily basis, so mingle. Avoid excessive “work” talk and keep conversations friendly and upbeat. Have a few topics up your sleeve – and avoid politics and religion, as a rule. Remember to not indulge in office ‘gossip’.
Pause before you post
Remember those days when “what happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas”? We all know that THAT isn’t true any longer! Cell phones allow us to post anything, anytime, anywhere. Before you post any photos from the holiday party, pause and ask yourself “Would this photo pass the CEO test?” If your employer has a social media policy, make sure you are aware of it. This is sometimes the case if you work for the public sector like the Federal Government. If the photo isn’t one that the CEO of your company would find appropriate, it’s probably not a good idea to share it with the world. Pause before you post to Facebook!
Show your thanks
Within 24 hours of the party, send out a handwritten thank you note to your employer – and also to anyone who helped organize the celebration.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette and tagged holiday office party etiquette tips
December 1, 2018
During the holidays, the rules for gift giving in the workplace are tricky. Many people are simply unsure of the protocol when it comes to inter-cubicle gift giving.
How much should I spend on a coworker?
Should I buy for my boss?
What should I buy my staff?
All of these questions are common this time of year.
Gift giving during the holiday season provides you with an opportunity to say “thank you” to those people who have supported you during the year—and that includes coworkers and mentors.
There are no mandatory holiday gift giving rules when it comes to how much to spend, however, some workplaces have guidelines in place that you must adhere to when giving gifts at the office. A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than the tax credit allowed in your country for professional gifts. In the U.S., the IRS allows a $25 tax deduction for each professional gift.
When buying for your boss, keep in mind that he likely has enough gadgets and trinkets. Be modest and consider doing something unique this year, such as making a donation to one of his or her favorite charities in the recipient’s name.
If you’re the boss, it’s a good idea to keep your radar up all year—listening in for your employees’ hobbies and interests. This will save you time choosing the perfect gift to give each one during the holidays. And it will make them feel appreciated!
Some gift-giving inspiration
Just can’t figure out what to buy? Here are a few ideas for you:
- Wine. When you give someone a bottle of wine, they can enjoy it now or save it for a long time.
- Chocolate. Dark chocolate is not only decadent, but it’s good for you! The perfect gift for everyone on your list!
- Treat someone to a service. Giving someone “permission” to treat themselves is the perfect gift.
- Food. During the holiday season, there are many stores that offer pre-made savory or sweet food hampers–or you can get creative and create a basket of goodies!
- Gift card. A gift card from Amazon is always a favorite gift because it gives the recipient an opportunity to buy whatever she wants anytime of year – guilt-free!
If you’re thinking about giving gifts to your customers this year, make sure you think about this first:
- Don’t give expensive gifts, but those intended to make the customer feel as though you appreciate them (not obligated to buy from you.)
- Don’t send gifts to prospective customers. By giving a gift too early in your business relationship, the intention may be misconstrued. Gifts are appropriate only if you have an ongoing business relationship.
- Don’t send promotional gifts. When sending a gift to a customer, refrain from sending something that’s tagged with your logo or brand. Save those items for trade shows and business events.
- DO send something of meaning. Tying a gift to a customer’s hobby or outside interest shows that you value the relationship.
The most important aspect of gift giving is that it comes from your heart so if you’re wondering where to draw the line, go with your instincts. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of giving a particular person a gift, then don’t do it.
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Posted by Margaret in Everyday Etiquette and tagged holiday gift giving etiquette tips
November 21, 2018
grat-i-tude [grat-i-tood]
noun
The quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
The last bowls of turkey soup (the best thing about leftover Thanksgiving turkey) have been served here in Canada, but the biggest holiday of the year is almost here for our friends in the US. With Thanksgiving, both in Canada and in the United States, there comes a heightened sense of gratitude. A keen sense of nostalgia and recognition for all that is good in our life.
At our house, during dessert at Thanksgiving, we go around the table –each of us sharing what we are thankful for. Guests always mention how good it feels to share what they are grateful for, and to hear what others give thanks for.
It’s such a simple thing, really, to stop and think about the things, and the people who bring us joy. But when was the last time you took a moment out of your (regular) day and acknowledged what you are truly thankful for?
Why Gratitude?
There is a plethora of information touting the benefits of cultivating gratitude on a daily basis. Just plug “benefits of gratitude” into Google and you’ll see a slew of results pop up on the health benefits – both mental and physical.
Let’s face it – life is busy. Time whizzes by and before you know it, we’re turning the calendar to a brand new year. No one is immune to the passing of time, but we can all learn to express it – and be more in the moment.
Here are two ways you can start flexing your gratitude muscles today:
Say thank you. I make it a habit of sending out one card per day to people who have enriched my life. Acknowledge those people who have an impact on your daily life. Send a card. Give them a call. Write a personal note or email expressing gratitude for their support or encouragement. Say “thanks” in person. It doesn’t matter what the delivery platform is, it’s the sentiment that counts.
Start a gratitude journal. At the end of each day, write down at least three things you are grateful for. If you want to skip the pen and paper, there are a ton of gratitude apps out there now to make it really easy for you to keep track of those moments of gratitude. I use Gratitude 365 – and so does my young grandson!
By making it a habit of practicing gratitude all year long, you will find that your thoughts and words will become more positive. Lose all those negative things you tell yourself–the “don’ts and “nots” and “should-haves”—and shift your focus on giving thanks for all the little things that make you smile every day.
Happy Thanksgiving to my American friends!
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” – Oprah Winfrey
Photo credit: Stuart Miles
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Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette and tagged gratitude
November 20, 2018
Business etiquette sometimes catches up with us outside the office: in coffee shops, at a friend’s house, or even grocery shopping. An associate recently told me that she was dreading running into a former co-worker who had been abruptly fired the week before. What should she say to this person? How could she avoid making a touchy event worse?
The short answer: Be kind. Be hopeful. Be discreet. You can’t always control how or when you’ll encounter tricky situations, but with a little foresight you can prepare and eliminate awkwardness. Here are four tips to keep you on track.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged etiquette tips, good manners
October 26, 2018
I work with many clients in China and India, two powerhouse markets that celebrate holidays on a different calendar than those of us in North America. I always try to stay on top of international holidays — not only is it a wonderful conversation point, but I enjoy learning about other cultures through their major festivals and events.
Wading into these holidays can be a bit tricky for the uninitiated. In India alone,
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Edge, Etiquette Tips, International Etiquette and tagged courtesies, culture, cultural awareness
October 23, 2018
I absolutely love self-improvement books because I’m on a lifelong quest for growth. I’ve read countless tomes about ways to better understand the world, business, and myself. These five books are some of my current favorites for sparking ideas and learning more about how people work.
The Culture Code: An Ingenious Way to Understand Why People Around the World Live and Buy As They Doby Clotaire Rapaille.This beautiful book gives an unbridled perspective on how a variety of cultures view the world — the “code” mentioned in the title. I found the author’s summaries so fascinating. When he held the mirror up to my own country, I didn’t always like what he revealed. But that’s the value of this book: It forces us to look at cultures from a different angle than what we were taught.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Communication, Just for Fun
September 21, 2018
I am often on the road or up in the air. I travel extensively and internationally for my business, self-development and for causes I care about, so I’ve amassed a trove of sanity-saving apps that keep me organized, on time — and entertained. That’s no small feat when I might be in Tokyo on Tuesday and Toronto on Thursday.
These eight apps have become my essential traveling companions.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette, International Etiquette and tagged #travel #roadwarrior
August 30, 2018
Technology is transforming so rapidly that it can be tough to keep up on the latest apps, messaging services, extensions, and other communication tools. These services aren’t just changing the way we do business, they’re changing the way we interact with each other in a business setting. As tech evolves, so do our options — and our etiquette. I’ve rounded up three common ways your tech communication style may still be stuck in 2008.
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Posted by Margaret Page in Uncategorized
