2020 Optimal Living Magazine Christian Women in Business Issue

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When most people hear the word “etiquette,” they think about butlers, white table clothes, crumpets, and of course, the accompanying nasal tone while strutting pinkies and sipping tea. This is why most people feel that etiquette is for “those people,” only to be emulated at special times. With this in mind, I challenge you to reshape your views and consider how etiquette is simply facilitating a comfortably shared experience in a congenial manner. With this definition, you will soon realize that etiquette is for all people, always; including you. 20 Career & Leadership Insight 5 KEY BUSINESS ETIQUETTE TIPS FOR 2020 & BEYOND Seems easier said than done. Especially in workplace situations when you feel the stakes are high. This is why it’s imperative to simplify all of those preconceived notions and take ownership of what etiquette means to you. Being calm, cool, and collected is the only way to manage such high pressure interactions with ease. So. here are a few great tips you can use with ease: 1. Know your role. If you are the one organizing the meal and inviting the guest(s), you are the host/hostess for this event. With that being said, it is your responsibility to lead the meal in a way that makes everyone comfortable. You should be familiar with the restaurant’s level of service, dietary restrictions of your guests, menu favorites, location, and any other nuances that will make By: Mrs. C-A Washington your dining choice a glowing success. Another key component of hosting that is often overlooked is table placement. As the host/ess, ensure that your guest(s) of honor enjoys the seat with the best view and least amount of aisle traffic. This includes securing a table within the best section of the restaurant, as private booths or water feature views often require early requests. 2. Smile, you’re on camera. Your next leadership role begins simultaneously with being seated as your knowledge of napkins, place settings, and the passing game will quickly move the meal forward in a gracious way. Again, this is your event and it’s your job to know what’s appropriate, as your guest(s) will be Subscribe to Optimal Living Magazine: www.optimal-livingmagazine.com
watching you for cues if they are unsure. Even more important, should you be accompanied by someone else from your firm, this is a great way to showcase your ability to represent the organization with class, so be sure to brush up on these things ahead of time. 3. Take charge. As the host/ess, make your guest(s) feel comfortable by offering entree suggestions, appetizers, and desserts to demonstrate that you truly enjoy the offerings and that they have full reign to try whatever they would like. In other words, if you have to hold your breath and hope that they opt for a salad because that’s the only affordable item, you’ve selected the wrong establishment. Another way to take charge requires understanding the libations expectations of your firm and guiding the meal accordingly. Although you personally may not care to partake in spirits (other than the Holy Ghost), you should always be prepared to communicate your wishes without being offensive. 4. Practice the 6 P’s. This means posture, pitch, pace, protocol, presence, and panache all count, as it is imperative that the others at the table know that they have your undivided attention at all times. Refrain from checking phone messages, whispering, slouching, or looking elsewhere while conversation takes place. Within this same realm, never talk with a mouth full of food or make audible sounds while you eat, as either faux pas will immediately shift attention away from what you’re hoping to accomplish. The best way to avoid such critical errors is to eat in small bites. This ensures that you’re ready to chime in to the conversation as needed, without awkward pauses due to chewing a mouth full of food. Slowing down in this manner will also set the tone for a more leisurely experience that encourages open and ongoing dialogue instead of a rush to finish. 5. Partner with your server. One of the easiest ways to ensure a successful dining experience is to communicate the importance of your visit with management and your server ahead of time. Throughout the meal, maintain this partnership with the appropriate utensil, napkin, and other non-verbal cues to keep him or her abreast of what should and should not be happening during each phase of the meal. As the host/ess typically covers the check, the most impressive component is how seamless you handle this final act. Again, your server should know ahead of time and be in concert with the method you choose to take care of the bill in the most discreet fashion; yet ensuring dessert and coffee options are presented before wrapping up. Finally, don’t forget to show gratitude for all your server did to create a stellar experience. Be sure to thank them with 25% to 30% or more, as building a solid relationship is always a key component of effortless etiquette. Now take these tips and go forth and host with grace! C-A Washington is the President and CEO of Polished to Perfection, a boutique firm dedicated to working with organizations and executives who want to convey excellence with civility, style, and charm...every time. Her book titled, The Art of A.R.C., will help you better understand your personal brand, while equipping you with the strategies you need to stand out in today’s economy. Subscribe to Optimal Living Magazine: www.optimal-livingmagazine.com 21
Page 1: Special 2020 Christian Women in Bus
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Page 9 and 10: definition of it is forever a work
Page 11 and 12: OLM: What or who inspired you to st
Page 13 and 14: TOSHAUNA GIDDINGS Author, How I Dis
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2020 Optimal Living Magazine Christian Women in Business Issue

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