Ask Kay your questions about dining and business etiquette or your personal image.

Ever experience one of those awkward moments? If you ever have those situations come up in business where you are not sure which way to respond, what to wear or how to behave?  You can ask me all your questions here.  Post any question here, and I will answer usually the same day, unless it is a stumper.

Let's get the conversation going.

Comments

[Susan Howington]

Okay, as much as I try to pay attention to women's fashion, I cannot figure out whether hosiery is "in" or "out" during the summer months for women, like me, who still dress in skirt suits and dresses for work!

Thanks for setting the record straight!

Susan Howington
Power Connections Executive Outplacement

[Kay Hunter]

Susan,
This is a tricky predicament. True, the majority of women do go bare legged these days, thanks to Katie Couric on the Today Show several years back. BUT, it is still NOT appropriate in certain business situations to wear no hose, especially in conservative business environments. If a woman's legs are smooth and look reasonably good without hose, in the summer time it is more updated to not wear hose. I recommend to my clients to invest in a supply of self-tanner, if your skin tone is very light. This being said, I was in a meeting at a top Insurance Company last week (who has a Business Casual dress code),and the women had on hose. In these environments, I recommend wearing Donna Karen Nudes hose. You have on hose, but they are barely visible. I will sure be glad when Fall is here, and we can wear our opaque tights with our ensembles! I appreciate your question. Warmly, Kay

[Susan Finch]

Is there a polite way to tell a coworker that they need to pluck their chin hairs or mustache (women!) before you go into a presentation?

[Miss Char]

I work in an outdoor environment(with young children) where business casual is jeans and tees. I occasionally need to go to client meetings and fundraisers where I need to dress more business casual. What basic pieces do I need to have? I currently have black trousers and a purple blouse. Help!

[Hope I. GetTHEJob]

I'm re-entering the job market after being home raising kids for the last 15 years. What does "Business Casual" mean? What would I wear to an interview at at company that has a Business Casual policy? I'm interviewing for an office support job at a software development company.

[Kay Hunter]

Congratulations on your new venture! “Business Casual” has very different interpretations depending on the company. It can vary from basically business dress in blazers and slacks, to jeans. Once you are hired, you can review their dress policy before your first day. For an interview, it is always recommended to dress as though they have a “professional” dress code. As a guideline, dress at least one level above their standard. I nice pant suit is always a good choice, with a blouse color that is flattering to you. Shoes are important, make sure they are in great condition and are not too high. Carry a portfolio with your resume that reflects a positive impression. Keep jewelry simply, but not nonexistent. You want to create a balance between not blending in with other candidates, and not standing out too much. Being polished and well groomed, will leave a positive impression. Good luck!

[Kay Hunter]

Miss Char: Your black slacks are a great start, ideally the fabric is a wool gabardine instead of a cotton. It is important that the slacks fit and hang properly on your body and are the proper length. I would suggest you invest in a couple blazers. A jacket instantly gives you a more important presence and will create a professional look. One jacket should be something that you can pair different tops underneath, so a black/white texture or pattern variety will be perfect. A second jacket should be something with color and possibly a pattern. You can pair either one of these jackets with a pair of jeans, a nicer shoe, and have another great look. Stores like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor Loft, Chico’s and even Target (depending on your shape and age) all have great options. Buy one pair of cute black flats, booties, or a heeled shoe depending on your comfort requirements. Pull everything together with a few accessories. One or two pairs of
earrings and a couple necklaces will finish your look, and extend your wardrobe mix and match options. Good Luck! Kay

Kay
Hunter
Image Etiquette Coach
(714) 665-8866
Kay Hunter - IMAGINE...The
Possibilities
www.linkedin.com/in/kayhunter

What is your image saying about you right now?

In a message dated 9/1/2010 7:50:48 A.M. Pacific Daylight Time,

[Lynn Mann]

When taking a client out for coffee, is it appropriate to order food if they don't? Should let them order first, and then do what they do? I want to make a good impression, but sometimes I'm HUNGRY!

[Kay Hunter]

Lynn: As you noted, a coffee meeting is your chance to make a great impression with your client. Dining Etiquette is all about being gracious and making your guest feel comfortable, which includes mirroring their order. The key is to offer them something more than coffee – to be gracious – before the order is taken. You might say “The scones here are delicious, would you like one with your coffee”. If they elect not to order food, it is best for you to not order something, especially because your mouth will be full while you are trying to talk. For any type of business event revolving around food, it is best to eat a handful of nuts or a protein bar right before you arrive. Good luck!