The holidays are the traditional time of the year to show our gratitude to all who make our lives easier and more pleasant throughout the year, and for those who make us look and feel our best. It can be stressful time, however, for gift givers when they are uncertain as to the appropriate amount →

While your resume and job skills may help you get your foot in the door, it will be your polished soft skills that will enable you to land jobs, get promotions, win clients, and successfully launch a new business. But what are soft skills? Soft skills refer to a cluster of personal traits, including your →

The Art of the Holiday Meal   It’s that special time of the year when we gather around the table to celebrate Thanksgiving with our family and friends. Using our best table manners and polished social skills will ensure that we will make a good impression and that it will be an enjoyable and pleasant →

Global Travel Etiquette Guidelines 10 Tips to Smooth Your Way When You Travel Internationally   Just as people in our native country warm up to us when we are polite and show interest in them, the same is true when we visit other countries—whether for business or pleasure. Cultural sensitivity, and a sincere interest in →

HOUSEGUEST ETIQUETTE HOW TO BE A CONSIDERATE GUEST AND THOUGHTFUL HOST   How to Be a Considerate Guest Do be clear about when you are expected to arrive, and when you are expected to leave; and do not go earlier or stay longer.   Do take a house gift; and if you are staying longer →

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF SUCCESS I would like to dedicate this blog to the Spring 2016 college graduates throughout the U.S.A. and around the world.  I did not write these ten commandments; Charles M. Schwab, an American steel magnate, wrote them. I do, however, wholeheartedly agree with them and believe that if you follow Mr. Schwab’s ten commandments, you will be successful →

10 of the Worst Conversational Faux Pas Someone Can Make Why are you so rude? It’s a question that reaches beyond the popular MAGIC! song — especially when someone is interupted while talking or being completely ignored. But many people remain oblivious to some of the worst conversational faux pas. Here are the ten biggest →

Polished and Proper for Fall 10 Tips to Help You Polish Your Personal Brand   Be open and confident.When it comes to making the first impression, body language, as well as appearance, speaks louder than words. Make an entrance! Use your body language to project appropriate confidence and self-assurance. Stand tall, smile, make eye contact, →

  How to Be a Considerate Guest Do be clear about when you are expected to arrive, and when you are expected to leave; and don’t go earlier or stay longer.   Do take a house gift; and if you are staying longer than a weekend, offer to take your host/hostess out to dinner one →

    Making a good impression at a conference or networking event is the first step to successfully achieving your goals. The best way to appear confident and poised is to dress appropriately for the event, know what your agenda is for it, and come prepared with a compelling 15-second self-introduction specifically tailored for the event. →