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Business Etiquette: Tips For Today's Workplace

While we may be living in casual times, manners and etiquette are still an essential part of our interactions with each other, particularly in business. As social media platforms have risen in popularity, the lines have been blurred somewhat as to what is considered appropriate. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you navigate through your professional life.

Business Etiquette: Tips For Today's Workplace

1. Thank You Notes

Do you remember the last time you sent a thank you note to a potential client with whom you've met, a prospective employer with whom you've interviewed, or had a face-to-face meeting with a new business partner? It is still an important step that is frequently overlooked. Write a thank you note; you'll stand out.

2. Be Judicious With Your Photos

Social media, as I mentioned, has created a new landscape for blunders. Often we may take pictures at work functions, but tagging a colleague in a photo without their permission will not win you any points. Always ask if you intend to post the photo anywhere public.

3. Look Up

We've discussed smartphone etiquette before, but it bears repeating: be fully present with the people you are meeting with. Turn off your phone, look up, and make the person who is speaking feel like what they are telling you is important enough for you to give it your undivded attention. Eye contact is still important.

4. Acknowledge People -  everyone

Learn people's names. That includes everyone from the receptionist to the CEO. Acknowledge each person's contribution to the successes your business. When people feel valued they will likely be loyal. Get to know them and convey your thanks for the work they do.

5. Be Careful With Criticism

You may not always agree with your colleagues on how a situation is handled, but harsh judgment is not right way to address it. It's so easy to tweet or post publicly your criticism, but once it's out there - you can't take it back. Rise above the situation, remember that people are doing their best, and be positive. Ask yourself, "if someone said this about me, how would I feel?" Let that be the litmus test for how you handle yourself in these situations.

Don't Be Dumb With Your Smartphone: Etiquette Tips

It seems everyone has a smartphone these days, and they are helpful in so many ways. There are times and places, however, when turning your ringer off and tucking your phone away will go a long way toward polishing up your image.

Here are a few places and situations that cry out to be smartphone-free.

1. Business Meetings - in person AND video:

Sitting in a meeting while something is being presented and ideas are being shared, is not the time to be trying to beat your high score on Angry Birds. Also, place your phone on vibrate and OFF the table where you are sitting. A vibrating phone on a table can be every bit as disruptive as a loud ringtone.

If you are sitting in a virtual meeting, or a video chat, the same rules apply. Looking down at your smartphone so that the other participants only see the top of your head doesn't bode well for your business image. Stay focused, engaged, and fully present in the conversation, whether you are physically present or virtually present.

Note: Be mindful of the ringtone you choose as well. Gangsta rap or Donald Duck ringtones are likely not going to win you any points with your supervisors or co-workers.

2. Business Events - lunches, dinners, networking functions, and conferences:

These situations are more likely to involve public venues. Phone conversations, flashing notifications, and always-attached Bluetooth headsets convey to others that whoever is communicating with you on your smartphone is more important than the people communicating with you face to face.

3. Court:

If you are in court or in an attorney's office on official business, now is a good time to turn your phone completely off. The middle of a deposition is not the time to be distracted by social media.

4. Theater and Live Performances:

There is a well-known viral video of an audience member's phone ringing during a Broadway performance. The actors on stage made the owner of the cell phone part of the show by ad-libbing, thus embarrassing him for his ringtone faux pas. Would you want to be that person? Wait until intermission to check your voice mail.

Movie theaters, while obviously not live performances, are still locations where smartphones need to be tucked away. Be courteous to those around you. A bright light on your screen, a loud ringtone, and flashing or noisy text notifications all take away from other moviegoer's experiences. Take your call to the lobby if you need to make or take a phone call.

5. Weddings:

Weddings are a very special time for the bride and groom. They are joining their lives together and speaking very poignant words of commitment. It's a time when your smartphone ringer should be silenced. Also, using your phone's camera during the ceremony, in any way blocking the professional photographer, is the ulimate in rude. Save your wedding paparazzi pictures for the reception.

6. Automobiles:

Lastly, for your safety and the safety of those around you, pull over and stop if you want to take a phone call or respond to a text, play around with your playlist, or update your Facebook status. It can wait.

More Spring Trends For Women

Image: mercatornet.com

A few weeks ago, I highlighted a few of the trends being seen in spring fashion for women. Here are a few more to tempt you into a shopping trip and a closet consultation with me!

1) Boyfriend Jeans - wear them cuffed at the bottom for a cute spring looks

2) Stripes - Stripes can be a little tough sometimes. Experiment with different stripe widths on what you try on to see which is the most flattering.

3) Neon And Bold Colors - A great way to add some eye catching pop to your everyday wardrobe.

4) Bright Jeans - be careful about mixing the bright jeans with neon and bold colors. Less is more, here.

5) Pointy-Toed Pumps - when you get fitted properly for shoes, this style can be very comfortable.

6) Floral Patterns - Subtle florals can be a wonderful go-to for summer parties and weddings.

7) Lace Dresses - for both day and night.

8) A-line Shirts - Great for camouflaging hips.

These trends are all very wearable, and you can very likely mix and match a few of them with what you already have. So, what's in YOUR closet? Let me help you find out and organize it all.

Need assistance with your Spring Closet Cleaning or Creative Shopping

CALL NOW!
714-665-8866

  CLOSET AUDIT/WARDROBE CONSULTATION:

Let's shop in your own closet! Do you wonder whether you should keep an item or an outfit, and are not sure which items you need to fill in the gaps? We will make selecting what to wear every day stress-free. We go through your closet, and determine what works and what you should donate. Your clothes will be organized to save you time dressing and increase your clothing options. A shopping list will be created outlining the specific items you are missing to make the most of your wardrobe and dollars.

"I must admit I was a little nervous about my Closet Audit appointment with Kay.  I felt like I needed to clean up my closet before Kay arrived - totally not necessary!  Kay made the process fun, efficient and so productive. When we were finished I felt cleaner, lighter and had several new ensembles that she magically pulled together in my closet -  which I would have never thought about wearing before."

Terry Smith - VP Marketing

Top Trends For Men: Spring 2013

Image: <a target="_blank" title="GQ.com Spring 2013" _mce_href="http://www.gq.com/style/wear-it-now/201303/jim-moore-spring-2013-trend-report-photos#slide=47" href="http://www.gq.com/style/wear-it-now/201303/jim-moore-spring-2013-trend-report-photos#slide=47">GQ.com</a>

Fashion trends for men this spring are starting to show up in everyday wear. Take a look at what's happening in men's fashion:

1) Camouflage

2) Stripes

3) Neon/Bright colors

4) Squared-off Sunglasses (think: Ray-Bans)

5) Tighter fit (don't go overboard! Comfortably tighter fit.)

6) Oxford Shoes With A Pop of Color

All of these trends are wearable and of-the-moment. Taking one or two of these ideas and incorporating them into your wardrobe will keep you on-trend and looking good!

Need assistance with your Spring Closet Cleaning or Creative Shopping? CALL NOW! 714-665-8866

CLOSET AUDIT/WARDROBE CONSULTATION:

Let's shop in your own closet! Do you wonder whether you should keep an item or an outfit, and are not sure which items you need to fill in the gaps? We will make selecting what to wear every day stress-free. We go through your closet, and determine what works and what you should donate. Your clothes will be organized to save you time dressing and increase your clothing options. A shopping list will be created outlining the specific items you are missing to make the most of your wardrobe and dollars.

"I must admit I was a little nervous about my Closet Audit appointment with Kay.  I felt like I needed to clean up my closet before Kay arrived - totally not necessary!  Kay made the process fun, efficient and so productive. When we were finished I felt cleaner, lighter and had several new ensembles that she magically pulled together in my closet -  which I would have never thought about wearing before."

Terry Smith - VP Marketing

Spring Cleaning = Spring Savings

Ever heard of the 80/20 rule?  Most people wear 20% of their clothes 80% of the time. This means 80% of your clothes are simply taking up valuable space in your closet! Not to mention the cost per wearing dollar amount of the 80% is quite high. These are clothes you probably should have never purchased. Although, you might be able to utilize some of the pieces once you can see them again or coordinate them with something different.

Imagine being able to go shopping in your own closet, and coming out with terrific new pieces!  You may still need a few key items, but you will not have to start from scratch for the Spring/Summer season ahead. This task has two big benefits: #1: You will have a closet in which you can see everything inside in an organized system. #2: You will create your own store, in which every item is perfect for your coloring, body proportion, and personal brand image. Let's get started 

Store Away Winter Items: If you are cramped for space, it is best to store away your heavy winter coats, sweaters, and boots. Take care of the clothes you will be putting into storage.  For instance, make sure everything is freshly laundered or dry-cleaned. This will make sure they are in perfect shape for the next winter season.

Use Proper Hangers: Recycle your wire hangers. Buy Huggable Hangers (Container Store) or Real Simple Slimline (Bed, Bath and Beyond), they really will provide you with more space. Good hangers protect your clothing, guard against stretched shoulder seams, and provide equal importance to each item. Hang all your clothes in the same direction.

Edit, Edit, Edit: Take a look at every single item in your closet and keep only those clothes that are wonderful. Ditch the rest! Don't make excuses for an outfit bought on sale that didn't quite fit (and still doesn't), or the well-meaning gifts from people who know your name, but not your color palette or taste in style. Just because something was great a few years ago does not mean it is great today! Tip: Hang all your hangers from the outside of the rod. After you have worn an item, hang the hanger from the inside of the rod. Take note after six months, if the hanger hook position has not been changed, the item goes away (items will still be facing the same direction, simply the top of hanger will be facing the other direction). This will not work with the plastic hangers, as the top hook will not rotate.

Color Code: Arrange everything in your closet by category (jackets, tops, pants, dresses, etc.), and by your color palette from dark to light. Start with all black items, then brown, reds, blues, ivory, and ending with white. Your closet should look like a new box of Crayola crayons. This arrangement lets you be more creative to mix and match, pairing items together that were mere acquaintances in the past.

Hang or Fold? A client just emailed this question and I thought it was great. She wanted to know if casual tops for she and her husband could be folded or if they should be hung. What you fold and put in a drawer will not be as visible and hence not utilized as much in your wardrobe. In an ideal world, hanging all your clothes is best. Since space limitations do not always make this feasible, you can fold your jeans, camisole tops and your "wash the car type T-shirts" on a shelf or in a drawer.  Sweaters are also good to fold, as the thick styles really do take up a lot of room. Note, some very fine gauge sweaters can "grow" longer if they are hung. These are always best to fold. Most of the time, if you edit your wardrobe properly you will have room to hang most of your items. 

Accessories & Shoes: Arrange your accessories so they are visible. Men, one of the best tie racks is the motorized model that rotates. It holds 64 ties and 6 belts, and keeps your ties wrinkle free. The tie rack sells for approximately $28.99, at www.stacksandstacks.com. Ladies, hang belts and necklaces on a standard tie rack. Or, just put a row of nails on your closet wall and hang a necklace over each nail head. Earrings should be placed in a shallow container - ideally made for earrings with little square separations. You can also use flat baskets and stack them on a shelf in the closet, on top of a bureau, or in a top dresser drawer. The best choice for shoes is to have them out of the box on graduating shelves. If you don't have this luxury, keep your shoes in clear plastic boxes.  Label for easy identification, a picture label is best. Wooden shoetrees are a must to maintain the condition and shape of your shoes.

Get Creative: Try pairing a jacket with your khakis or jeans. Guys, wear one of your colored or patterned dress shirts with jeans and a cool pair of retro tennis shoes or an updated loafer or oxford. Ladies, get out a basic solid blouse, pair it with a classic pair of pants, add a bold scarf, and add pizzazz with an unexpected bright shoe. Or, open the blouse, add a colorful camisole, and accent your waist with a twisted scarf that picks up the camisole color. Shoes no longer have to match your handbag or even your outfit! Be creative and experiment.

Missing Item List: Make a list of "incomplete" items, such as the ensemble that needs an updated pair of shoes, a colorful shirt, or the right accessory. You may also want to add just a few of the season's hot items to your list, to update your look.    

Congratulations! You are the proud owner of an orderly closet. You have a strategic shopping list that will bring your wardrobe together versus just adding more of the same items. If you love something, you do not need three of the same item - sound familiar? You can see all of your favorite clothes, with no bad apples in the bunch, so choosing something to wear is now easy, quick and fun!

Must-Have (Wearable!) Fashion Trends For Spring 2013

Spring is making an appearance, and the latest looks are coming on strong. What you see on the runway may need a little adjusting to be worn in everyday life. Here are a few trends that look like winners.

1) Black and White:

The runways were full of high contrast ensembles in every imaginable iteration. From evening wear to casual, the looks were bold and definitely translatable to everyday wear. One of the nice things about black and white is that chances are you have pieces that you wear now. So take a look in your closet and find some new inspiration with what you already have.

image: jasonwustudio.com

2) Bermuda Shorts:

The length of shorts is finally taking a downward trend, meaning LONGER. This is a fantastic trend because these shorts can be so versatile, and can be an excellent option for a range of body types. In a casual workplace, bermuda shorts are the perfect answer to summer days spent in the office. They go easily from day to evening when matched with a great looking dressy sandal.

image: trendfashionable.com

3) Embellished Shoes:

Shoes with embellishments in such colors as gold, silver, and bronze. One thing that makes this trend very wearable is that flats and low heels were well represented on the runway. You don't have to hurt to be on-trend. Dress up an evening outfit with a pair of embellished pointed-toe flats, and you'll fit right in.

image: MSN.com

 

Emergency Kits: Being prepared without taking up a lot of space.

There are a few items that would be handy to have at home for "dash out the door" emergencies, last minute meetings, or social events. I recommend keeping them all in one bag or drawer so you are not frantically searching for them, causing you to break into a sweat, rip something more – making you start all over! Some of these items should be kept in your glove compartment and women - have them in your evening bag, if you can without making it look chunky and bulky.

Double-stick (Hollywood fashion tape) is good for those well-endowed at the chest, or a little reinforcement for those places the holiday pounds might settle. It is also good for hems that needs to be stitched but you didn't notice till you were out the door.  The clear tape doesn’t t cover up the skin’s natural color and is more discreet and fabric-friendly than safety pins. Safety pins are also handy for these purposes - but the Hollywood Fashion Tape is more discreet.
 

Image: hollywoodfashionsecrets.com

Tide-To-Go eraser pen is great for getting little spills out fast, such as the wine spill that inevitably happens when you are wearing light colors!

Image: Tide.com
 

Lint roller for the pet hair that has migrated into the front seat of your car and stick to your rear end, or the white napkin lint from the restaurant napkin or tissue fuzz.

image: Target.com

Handkerchief is handier for quick touch up wipes than tissue - no fuzz left on your face or clothes.

 

Cuticle oil or cream for the dry cuticles that the cooler weather causes.  Another alternative is the anti-aging and eye creams that are given as gifts with most cosmetic purchases. Clinique even gives it with the men's shaving gift packs - VERY handy for winter hands and cuticles. 

Image: Clinique.com

 
Ballet slippers for those aching feet from your high heels.  Dr. Scholls is selling portable shoes, but you can get a thin pair of ballet slippers anywhere. This option is far better than walking around a party with your shoes off! You can choose from a few well-known shoe sites: ShoeBuy, Zappos, Nordstrom, Capezio.

Image: Zappos.com

Tweezers - men this includes you as well. Sometimes you catch a glimpse of yourself in the rearview mirror or feel that tickle. Having a pair of tweezers in the glove compartment helps you get that stray Yoda hair from your ears or nose or the one eyebrow hair getting tangled in your eyelashes. Women, you know what I'm talking about with the stray chin or upper lip hair that eluded waxing or plucking earlier in the day. Keep them tucked in the car or home. This is not a "do in public" type of thing. No need to stash the tweezers in your purse.

Breath mints, breathstrips especially after a long stressful day. A glass of water can get rid of the dry mouth and the breath mints and breath strips can freshen up your mouth - assuming you are brushing and using mouthwash before you ever leave your house. This is just for "touch up."

Image: wikipedia

Spare pair of hose for evening events. Sometimes you can't stop by to pick them up if you arrive at an event and then there it is - a run from here until Tuesday. Clear nail polish still can stop it, but if it's too late and you need to replace them, have a pair handy in your most common colors - nude and black. No need to ruin the entire look of your outfit because of a snaggy mishap.

Image: wikipedia

	Home	Car	Purse	Office
Double Stick Hollywood Fashion Tape	x	x
Safety Pins	x	x	x	x
Tide-To-Go	x	x	x	x
Lint Roller	x
Hankerchief			x	x
Cuticle Cream	x	x		x
Ballet Slippers	x	x		x
Tweezers	x	x		x
Breath mints, Breath strips		x	x	x
Spare pantyhose	x	x		x

 

 

Interview With Susan Finch On SLMA Radio: Women In Business: Stop Embarrassing Yourself!

I was recently interviewed on Sales Lead Management Association's new regular radio segment, "Women In Sales and Marketing." Read more about the new segment and my interview with Susan:

Gym Etiquette: Impress While You Sweat!

Those of you have been my avid readers for the last ten years know how important etiquette is to your success. Just as table manners at important dining situations, workspace courtesies, and business etiquette are important at the office; there are some firm rules to follow when sharing workout space.   

Since losing weight is one of the top three New Year's resolutions, gyms are going to be particularly overcrowded this time of year - which makes gym etiquette all that more important. People go to the gym to relax, exercise and have a positive experience. So follow these important tips and make sure you don't ruin someone's workout and or quite possibly their day! A bonus is that you will make positive connections which could turn into a new client, a new boss or a boyfriend or a girlfriend!    

Clean Up - This is my pet peeve, people who do not wipe off the equipment when they are finished using it and leave it soaking wet with sweat! This is not right on any level. Wipe up after yourself and this doesn't mean a quick wipe-it means making sure the bench/seat is completely dry for the next person.    

Volume Control - There is no doubt listening to great music is motivating at the gym; just remember not everyone wants to hear your music.   


Turn Off your Cell Phone - As the picture above shows, it is very annoying to other people to have to overhear your personal conversation. Some gyms simply do not allow phones in the gym, but if yours does do yourself a favor and let yourself escape from your life for one hour - and leave your phone in the car. Texting can also be a hazard, if you are not looking where you are going you can easily run into someone or trip over a weight bar!    

Don't Think You are a Trainer - Unless asked for input, do not offer unsolicited advice. People do not want to be corrected or interrupted. Your intentions may be honorable, but a wrong suggestion could end up hurting someone.    

Dress Appropriately - Dress in current gym attire, not the old T-shirt you wore in college. The newer clothes that are made from synthetic fabrics are designed to specifically wick away the sweat, keeping you cooler and drier. Try Lululemon, Lucy, Dri-Fit by Nike or Double Dry by Champion. Ladies, the gym is also not the place to show off your cleavage and butt cracks. Wear a supportive sports-bra and make sure your butt/thong is not exposed. Also, be aware that gym pants that have been washed too many times become see through! Hold up your pants in the light (stretching them slightly) to see if you are showing your goods to the world! Men, this goes for you too - if you sweat a lot, wear a shirt that covers more of you than a tank top so it can absorb more of the moisture. Also, make sure your shorts are not too short when you are doing those sit ups and your legs are in the air!      
 
Wear Deodorant (not cologne/perfume) - Just like the office, people can be very sensitive or even allergic to cologne and perfumes. Use a good deodorant and avoid garlic the night before hitting the gym. We expect to sweat at the gym; a little preparation can go a long way.   

Learn to Share - Let's face it, this is a lot like getting along on the playground when we were in grade school. Don't hog gym equipment. If you are in the middle of a circuit routine and taking a short break, let others slip in between sets. Don't leave a towel on the machine expecting people not to use the equipment. Share and share a like. It is also courteous to not rush people who you can see are in the middle of a set. Asking someone if they are "almost done" while they are obviously using the equipment is not polite and will not win you friends.    

Avoid Breakouts - When we sweat it produces bacteria. Our normal response is to touch our face with our hands which spreads the bacteria and creates breakouts. The solution is to use your towel to blot (not wipe) your face not your hands. Another solution is to use disposable wipes or towelettes to wipe down your body (or face depending on the type you purchase) if you are not able to shower right after your workout. This will help you avoid breakouts and bumps on your back and other sensitive areas.    

Looking great and feeling great go hand in hand to make you feel confident and enjoy success. Every person views success in a fitness regimen differently. For some their #1 fitness priority is to work off stress. Other's simply want to have a healthy heart. For others it is all about weight loss. Whatever your fitness goals are, I encourage you to "dress for the body you are in". Don't WAIT to dress attractive because you are not the size you want to be. Enjoy the journey and be good to yourself along the way. If your fitness regimen takes you to the gym, I trust the above tips will help you have an even more pleasant experience - the other people will enjoy the side benefits too!

Look And Feel Great In 2013: A Special Offer For You!

Look and Feel Great in 2013 

If looking and feeling your best is part your goal for 2013, now is a great time to get started with your Personal Makeover. Small changes get big results and it is a lot easier than losing 20 pounds. Call or email now to schedule your Personal Consultation! 

The first 5 appointments scheduled will receive a 10% discount off their first service! 

Here are a few of my favorite gym products.

Swiftly Tech Long Sleeve *Lace $68

Stay cool, dry and at the top of your game during every workout in the Nike Dri-FIT tee. $22

 

 Verbena Refreshing Towelettes Size 15 Towelettes  $10.00