|
Manners Make the Fortunes of Ambitious Men. - Ralph Waldo Emerson  Have gracious social manners gone the way of the typewriter? “Not!”There is a shift from today’s relaxed attitude and lack of etiquette to a more formal gracious manner. Gracious manners are still the basis of human interaction. The election of Barrak Obama as the next President of the United States proves it. With good manners, you project confidence when meeting and greeting others, introducing people, making small talk or winning a presidential election. Gracious manners are in…big time! Personal know - how and possessing gracious social manners are crucial to creating a successful special event (or a presidential campaign) that will get you rave reviews from your guests and votes…guaranteed. Some social scientists and civility experts argue that good manners improve your chances of personal and business success whether it is a business or social function, a networking event or a party in your home. Those who lack good manners lose opportunities, promotions, social opportunities and friends. With stiff competition, corporate restructuring and global and personal demands, companies tell me that they are not hiring or promoting those who lack professional polish, social or business etiquette. Hosting skills are more in demand than ever, whether it is at the mid management level, sales level or the executive suite. In both the business and social worlds, I have seen how poor social graces limit individuals. Senior management tells me that they are appalled with employees with atrocious business and social manners. High IQs and lofty accomplishments do not automatically guarantee good manners. Seldom taught in schools, manners are often absent from the busy home-life. There is a lack of time for sit down family dinners, teaching politeness, appropriate dress and grooming. Manners appear to be a life skill, which we are supposed to obtain through the media or by imitating others. Yet, many individuals seem to be on the fast rack; they appear self-assured, even though they have never seen a fish fork or a finger bowl and are terrified when faced with damask table linens. They also lack the art of small talk, are always in a hurry, speak fast, walk fast and do not appreciate what being gracious is all about. Graciousness and refined manners are simply a combination of common sense, logic and kindness. The Golden Rule...”Treat others as you would like o be treated” should be our cornerstone. Manners are the greatest tool in our toolbox…especially when entertaining and hosting events. The Savvy Host always maneuvers with grace and style and…. 1. Takes care of every detail from beginning to end. 2. Sends invitations our early so guests can plan to attend. It’s a busy time and everyone’s schedule is tight. Checks and calls to make sure guests received the invitation and are able to attend. 3. Includes an interesting mix of people plus some new faces to the guest list. 4. Establishes the mood right from the start…whether it’s a casual or elegant party, a dress code should be in place to eliminate confusion. 5. Include music in the plans. Keep the volume low enough so guests will not have to shout to be heard. 6. Presents a menu that is varied, interesting, colorful and easy to eat. 7. Ensures that the proper cutlery and china are available. NO PLASTIC PLEASE! 8. Provides an abundance of food and drink. Abundance rules the day. NO SKIMPING…you do not want to been seen as cheep! 9. Check every last detail at least a few hours before the event at the venue. Do not let the early bird see you in a flap. 10. Makes every effort to ensure that guests are comfortable. Treat everyone as if he or she is a very special person. 11. Is appropriately dressed and groomed early. Ensure that you know what to wear and are not in hysterics at the last minute. . 12. Knows his stuff – is socially adept, witty and charming. This is the time to indulge your guests, not yourself. 13. Has small talk down pat! Stick to safe topics. No politics, sex, off color jokes or religion. Above all, BE ALERT…. PREPARATION IS ALL! IT’S YOUR PARTY – ENJOY YOURSELF - BE IN CONTROL - BE COOOOL!
Set as favorite
Bookmark
Email This
Hits: 4095 Comments (0)
|
||||||||||
Subscribe to this comment's feed
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
Sales Articles
| Communications |
| Compensation |
| Industry Specific |
| Lifestyle |
Sales Articles
| Marketing |
| Networking |
| Productivity |
| Relationships |
Sales Articles
| Sales Advice |
| Sales Leadership |
| Sales Mindset |
| Sales 2.0 |
