Hola mis amigos! I am writing to you from the beautiful Na Balam Beach on Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where my husband and I are enjoying some much needed rest and relaxation before 2013 kicks into full swing. This picture is … Continued
Etiquette
Six Simple Guidelines for Discussing Business During a Business Meal
Do you want to present yourself as a POLISHED professional? If so, follow these guidelines for discussing business during a business meal. (1) If you have weighty business issues to discuss, it is best to schedule a breakfast or lunch … Continued
Should I tip my hairdresser who owns her own business and sets her own prices?
At Starla West International, we specialize in confidence. In other words, we help business professionals all over the world gain the confidence that comes with… having an attractive and professional appearance, knowing their behavior is appropriate for the environment in … Continued
To Flip or Not to Flip? That is the question!
When a coffee cup and saucer are already on the table, should we flip our coffee cup over if we do not wish to be served coffee (or hot tea) near the end of our meal? Most etiquette experts agree … Continued
What should I do with my napkin when I haven’t yet finished my meal but need to leave the table momentarily?
Consult with ten different etiquette experts and you are likely to receive two different answers! POTENTAL RESPONSE #1: ON THE SEAT OF YOUR CHAIR “In fine dining establishments where the wait staff has been properly trained, the napkin is a … Continued
Should We Eat Asparagus With Our Fingers?
Last week, a group of etiquette consultants discussed via one of our LinkedIn groups whether or not asparagus can be eaten using our fingers. After much discussion, we all agreed our esteemed colleague, Peggy Post, answered this question best many, … Continued
8 Dining Mistakes That Are Potential Image Killers
The very nature of dining with someone is an intimate event. We are sitting close to each other… …no one can escape being seen or heard… …what we see and hear helps us form an opinion of our dining partner. … Continued
Holiday Tipping Guidelines | Do you know who to tip this holiday season?
Simply put, a holiday tip is a wonderful way to show appreciation for those individuals who have taken care of us and made our lives easier throughout the year. Embracing the spirit of the holiday season, we should show our gratitude for these wonderful service providers by offering a cash tip (or small gift) along with a handwritten note in a holiday card. Read on to review our Holiday Tipping Guidelines.
The knowing, understanding, and carrying out of proper etiquette is crucial to our success as business professionals.
No one is born into this world with proper etiquette, excellent manners and social graces. These are learned skills. If employees have not learned these skills from their parents or educational environment, then employers must we willing to teach these skills.
How to Respond When You Are the Recipient of Rude and Disrespectful Cell Phone Behavior
A few months back, I wrote an article entitled What Do Your Cell Phone Behaviors Say About You? In response, I received the following email from one of my readers: *********************************************** Hi Starla, I am really enjoying your emails; this one … Continued
