You are here:

Business Etiquette/Questions Answered by Expert Denise Anne Taylor

Subject	Date Asked
politics	5/6/2012
Q: My partners and I are in the process of starting a t-shirt line. One genre we cover are political ... A: Lisa, This is where you need to create a business plan that outlines the pros and cons financially ...
Business Card Title	4/20/2012
Q: I need help with a business card title. I just opened a small business and I am the only employee at ... A: Alan, This is a great question and asked often. Just put Owner. If you put CEO or President your ...
Protocol regarding similar degrees	4/19/2012
Q: I have already received a masters in organizational management, and I am about to complete my MBA. ... A: Tony, It is true that a Master's degree is an educational accomplishment that requires years of ...
Spouse at a Business Dinner	2/7/2012
Q: I'm writing to you from UK desperately seeking advice. I have been asked by my significant other if ... A: Pam, Your role is to establish rapport and bonding to solidfy the business relationship that your ...
name tag question	2/5/2012
Q: I have a small in-home pet sitting business. I live in a small, 55 plus gated community,(maybe 3000 ... A: Barbara, Each organization may or may not have protocols for volunteers regarding such a matter. ...
employee protection	2/4/2012
Q: My wife has worked for 15 years as a bank tellor. Her bank has been bought out by a big bank and ... A: Don, Every corporate culture is unique. Gossip and hearsay can be costly. She should sit down with ...
Dont you agree with me that stockboy is a liar about the lease	12/6/2011
Q: Today I went to a 99 cent store in my neighborhood. I needed a wire for my phone. I saw the stock ... A: Debbie, Thank you for your feedback. The stockboy may have provided misinformation, or mentioned ...
23 yr old son wants to take business etiquette	12/5/2011
Q: My son would love to take your class at the Birmingham Community House, but they only offer it for ... A: Marsha, I can bring this up to the program committee for consideration to address the adult ...
Promotion	11/28/2011
Q: Should a celebration be given to a person who receives a promotion within the same company? What is ... A: Carolyn, Every company typically has protocols regarding how promotions are managed. What level or ...
Dont you agree with me that stockboy is a liar about the lease	11/26/2011
Q: Today I went to a 99 cent store in my neighborhood. I needed a wire for my phone. I saw the stock ... A: Debbie, Every company operates differently. Some privately owned businesses are more open with ...
office lunches	9/9/2011
Q: When a boss (male) goes to lunch with 2 female employees is it proper for the boss to sit on one ... A: Marge, A booth is a tough call as it is quite limiting regarding seating arrangements, however, ...
email	6/28/2011
Q: I would like your opinion on something I did. My job situation as a city transit driver is very ... A: Bud, You may consider owning your input, don't shy away, you could consider approaching your ...
business attire	2/25/2011
Q: I applied for a job recently, the requisition for which states: "...Assists customers and ... A: Gi, It would depend on the weight of the sheath dress as to whether a blazer/jacket would be too ...
Is This Selfish	2/4/2011
Q: I have a co-worker who once said to me "you make me look bad." Why should I adjust my performance ... A: Jean, Your co-worker statement is quite general. To avoid future conflict in the place of work ...
Leave job with unfinished business?	12/21/2010
Q: Taylor, I began working for this (small, family-owned) company part-time with the mutual ... A: K. First, you may want to pursue other opportunities as the cycle time in landing a new position is ...
Employee hospitalization	11/15/2010
Q: An employee at my husband's office is having open heart surgery today. I would like to know the ... A: A card with a plant would be appropriate to know that this employee is being thought of is always ...
Reception and dinner invite for VIPs	8/5/2010
Q: Should I list the dinner menu on the invitation? How about beverages? A: April, You are not obligated to supply a dinner menu with or on the invitation; however, if it is a ...
contacting possible employer before they contact you	8/1/2010
Q: I am a recent MFA graduate, and am sending out lots of applications. After emailing along my resume ... A: Alisha, Many companies have specific guidelines and protocols for outreach. Keep in mind that many ...
Business Casual	6/29/2010
Q: I have spent the last 20 years as an elementary school teacher. I dressed very ... A: Joanne, Business Casual for Women: Staple wardrobe items that can easily be mixed and matched and ...
Use of letterhead	6/1/2010
Q: When I was in school (before the advent of word processors and printers) we were told that ... A: Paul, The rule still stands using the letterhead on first page for a business letter, followed by ...
How do I decline a sales proposal politely?	5/8/2010
Q: how do I decline a sales proposal politely in writing? I might use their product in the future. ... A: Mel, First of all, I commend you on actually declining the sales proposal as many will find ways to ...
Interviewer's Manners	4/27/2010
Q: Just today, I attended an interview set up through Express Personnel Services. I was only told that ... A: Jessica, It is not uncommon to experience unusual or unexplained actions on behalf of those that ...
money	3/29/2010
Q: Who foots the bill for ticket/lodging for an International interview? I live in North America the ... A: Aretha, Typically the policy for many corporations is the first interview expense is the ...
Nameplate	3/7/2010
Q: My daughter is married and has B.A.(Hons)and M.A. Degrees. She is shortly earning the Ph.D. How do ... A: Kiron, Upon receipt of her Ph.D; it would read Susan B. Smith, Ph.D, the remaining professional ...
Corporate function name badges	2/2/2010
Q: I am in the process of finalizing the planning of a corporate function (cocktail reception)and am ... A: Carolina, Name and title would be appropriate and would allow guests to network more effectively. ...
A better position offer but I turned it down, now I want it	1/27/2010
Q: I work for an agency with developmentally disabled adults. I started at an entry level position two ... A: Courtney, Approach the individual that offered you the position and explain that upon further ...
bonus	12/22/2009
Q: my husband works for a national corporation. He is a manager of a small 8 employee store. He would ... A: Leea, A bonus for outstanding work throughout the year is always welcomed, and will go a long way ...
Invitation to Retirement Reception	12/11/2009
Q: The founder and CEO of our mid-sized company is retiring and the company is having a reception in ... A: John, It is appropriate to simply inquire as the the status of spouse attendance, if your wife is ...
Christmas collection for boss	12/1/2009
Q: I am a hairstylist. We all work on commission. Every year they collect money from all employees for ... A: Susan, You have several choices, contribute a small sum, whatever you can afford or choose not to ...
Re-accept a job Offer	11/14/2009
Q: Taylor: Around 6-7 months ago I got a job offer at a respectful company. However, the working hours ... A: Judy, First of all, is the position still available? You may outreach to let them know that your ...
how to write multiple degrees	11/4/2009
Q: I've an MS (in engineering), MBA and Ph.D. (in Management). I'm not sure how to write them on my ... A: Bastian, Degrees other than Ph.D are not featured on a business card. Bastian Smith, Ph.D ...
Resume Envelopes	9/11/2009
Q: After printing my cover letter and resume on nice 24-lb. cotton watermarked resume paper, I slid it ... A: Sherri, I would not be concerned that you can read the cover letter through the envelope, the cover ...
Business Correspondence	8/17/2009
Q: My wife says that with business correspondence we should not send the original to the other party. ... A: Tim, For future reference; you keep original and send copy of signed document to other party. You ...
What is the proper way to turn down a job offer?	8/16/2009
Q: I accepted two job offers, because I could not make up my mind which one would be a better fit. Now, ... A: Ideally, this matter should have been addressed in a more timely manner, as they are expecting you ...
Correct way to list degrees?	8/15/2009
Q: I would like to list both of my degrees (masters) on my business cards. I have a Master of Science ... A: Pat, It is not required to list your degrees at the end of your name unless it is a professional ...
Follow up after sending resume	8/12/2009
Q: How do you follow up after sending a resume to a law firm that is not actively seeking new ... A: Jenn, You may connect with the contact utilized for your resume submission. It is appropriate to ...
CFO company opening	7/21/2009
Q: My company just fired the CFO for various reasons including embezzlement, fraud, never showing up to ... A: Heather, It is important to follow company protocol as this is sensitive and if you go directly to ...
showing degree on business cards	7/16/2009
Q: I was going to ask this follow up question to another expert, but it says she's now maxed out... ... A: Tina, Under your husband's name he could state as Accredited Horticulturist and Landscape ...
emailing for work	7/8/2009
Q: (companys and photographers contract me out for styling jobs) How do I write a letter to a company ... A: Christina, You may want to consider a combination of direct mail and e-mail. You may find a site ...
Sales Home Visit	6/27/2009
Q: I work in sales and sometimes I am required to make home visits. In a few of the homes I visit my ... A: Sophia, You may request the use of the slippers, or invest in your own pair for such situations ...
Addressing Others as "Sweetie"	6/26/2009
Q: How do you politely ask others from referring to you as sweetie or honey. Although I think it is ... A: Ms. Galbraith, The following formula may be useful: F-State only facts. Yesterday, Jane, you ...
Sales Home Visit	6/23/2009
Q: I work in sales and sometimes I am required to make home visits. In a few of the homes I visit my ... A: Sophia, When you enter into a home, on a sales call, you are committed to honoring the request of ...
Job Acceptance Letter	6/17/2009
Q: Taylor, I recently received a job offer by telephone, followed by a formal letter. I had direct ... A: Matt, When sending your letters, be sure to address to each separate individual, stating your ...
Kind of t-shirt under a dress shirt	5/30/2009
Q: I have a question on what t-shirt is appropriate to where under a white dress shirt & tie; solid ... A: Robert, A solid white T-shirt or tank style undershirt is acceptable and is about preference. The ...
How to ask for Reemployment	5/20/2009
Q: I was recently terminated (reason: failed to send FMLA papers on time which was required for my ... A: Srini, If the company suggested you may check back for opportunity; do so. Resubmit for employment ...
Wage Increase	5/20/2009
Q: I am currently working part-time as a student in the accounting department of a large retail firm. I ... A: Greg, First you should consider doing some salary research online at a site like salary.com or ...
terminated from a 4 month job	4/29/2009
Q: I left a job of 10 years at another hospital to take a job that i did not have to commute 45 min two ... A: If you choose not list the job, which appears to have been a very short term postion of 2 months, ...
business	4/10/2009
Q: I am a partner in a business in colo and have been an officer and share holder since we started and ... A: When was the business started? Does the business have an annual report? What legal and signed ...
Interview Follow Up	3/26/2009
Q: I need some advice about an interview I had. When I initially submitted my resume for the position ... A: It is proper protocol after the interview to send a handwritten note of thanks for consideration. ...
Interview Follow Up	3/26/2009
Q: I need some advice about an interview I had. When I initially submitted my resume for the position ... A: Nicole, Please be patient. You have provided outreach and at some point there will be additional ...
Being late	3/14/2009
Q: So I, and apparently my boss, has noticed that lately I have been late for work. I have absolutely ... A: Amber, The best solution is to be on-time. However, a note confirming your agreement to be timely ...
workplace issue	3/10/2009
Q: Is it appropriate for a supervisor to send out an e-mail announcing a person's age without prior ... A: Lavon, It is inappropriate workplace behavior to announce a colleagues age. However, as we ...
Declining a business proposal	3/5/2009
Q: I want to decline a business proposal of a thrid party vendor due to two reasons - dont want to ... A: Sippy, You may simply state that your organization has chosen to move in a different direction, ...
Thank You Gift	2/15/2009
Q: Our organization's Board of Directors changes annually. Each year, the outgoing chairman presents ... A: Lyn, There may be good explanation for his choice, however, having personalized the pens with each ...
Degrees in Business Cards	2/14/2009
Q: I have a bachelor and 2 master degrees (different field) plus a license. How do I list these ... A: Sonia, List your name and the two Master degrees after your name on a business card. Example: Sue ...
Personal customer contacts versus telephone calls	1/8/2009
Q: In my office I have been told that when I am speaking to a customer at the counter and the telephone ... A: Billie, You are correct a live customer takes precedence over a phone call. When you know you will ...
letter to customers	1/2/2009
Q: I have sold my shares of my business and have started my own business doing the same type of work. I ... A: Wendy, You may want to consider making the letter a positive, enthusiastic, invitation to join you ...
Sticky situation	12/20/2008
Q: I have a situation I need to know the right words to say to my boss. I have worked in a 2 person ... A: Mary, Keep in mind that a layoff is not personal. This is a difficult economy for businesses of ...
New Job	12/16/2008
Q: I got a job offer today for a contract position through a staffing agency that starts on Wednesday ... A: Christine, Speak to your management and explain your situation. Since they are closing in ...
business ethics	12/10/2008
Q: what is business ethics......give me ita brief knowledge about it. means its advantages and effect ... A: Santosh, Business ethics is in regard to behavior and choices made in the workplace. Employing ...
how to deal........	11/24/2008
Q: How do you deal with a customer that just doesn't listen? A: Charlie, Typically, I would require more information. What is the situation? What Industry? ...
Addressing a business letter	11/18/2008
Q: What is the correct way to address a business letter to a married couple, when the Wife has not ... A: Laura, The married couple and the wife that has not taken the husband's name would be addressed as ...
business etiguette	11/12/2008
Q: I was recently promoted two grade level on my government position. How should I address all the ... A: Ray, A letter stating your appreciation for their support during this exciting time, that you look ...
displaying degrees on office wall	11/10/2008
Q: Having earned the Bachelor, Master and Doctorate in my field, do all these get displayed on my ... A: Bill, The diplay of the Doctorate would be sufficient, as you cannot acquire a Doctorate without a ...
Holiday Mixer Invitations	10/30/2008
Q: We are sending a "Save the Date" email followed by a more formal mailed invitation to a Holiday ... A: Typically "Save the Date" email should be sent six weeks out, and then follow with the formal ...
Business Attire	10/28/2008
Q: My company is hosting a "Client Appreciation Dinner" at a nice restaurant. In our industry, ... A: Here is suggested language that may be used for your invitation: Power Business: Men: business ...
stamps vs machine	10/27/2008
Q: is there any advantage to mailing with a postage stamp as opposed to running a Thank You card ... A: Vicki, Some would say that the postage stamp with envelope hand addressed appears to be more ...
Business Letter	10/21/2008
Q: I am given a business letter to mail out, it has a main address and addressee. Then it has an ATTN: ... A: Anne, You may remove the attn. line on the actual letter, as long as the salutation in the letter ...
harassment at a school	10/21/2008
Q: I have decided to try and talk to a fellow teacher who has been harassing me about my marital ... A: Based on how to handle conflict management , it is highly recommended that when there is an issue to ...
Lunch Invitations	10/15/2008
Q: I have a problem. I ride to work with my boss and a co-worker to work most of the time. Therefore, I ... A: Travis, Although it would be nice to have lunch invitations with others, it would be advised that ...
FOLLOW UP AFTER E-MAILING RESUME	10/3/2008
Q: I RECEIVED CONFIRMATION OF MY RESUME BEING RECEIVED.I WAS TOLD IT WOULD BE SENT TO HR FOR THEIR ... A: Donna, Be sure to read the posting carefully. Many of the postings state clearly that no contact ...
shirts - tucking	10/3/2008
Q: Regarding tucking or not tucking shirts - when the employee is larger in size, would the same rule ... A: Christine, A person of larger size should tuck their shirt in to maintain a professional ...
Business etiquette	9/29/2008
Q: I've recently submitted my resume by mail to a municipal administrative position that had an open ... A: Melissa, Follow the posting/classified guidelines, does it state no phone calls, no email's, etc.? ...
TALKING ABOUT YOUR EX BOSS	9/19/2008
Q: Due to my exbosses lack of organization, things did not get done. Now I am being blamed for things ... A: Mireya, You may want to have discussion about what did not get accomplished, determine how to avoid ...
thank you notes for group/many interviews	9/8/2008
Q: I finished a 3 day interview round with a large co in which I met with about 10 people in all. Most ... A: The appropriate choice is to write 10 hand written thank you notes. Regardless if you believe it is ...
Our Office Manager	8/25/2008
Q: After 12 years with our company, our office manager got a "pink slip". We just found out tomorrow ... A: Michelle, If you have a good working relationship with this person, then perhaps a simple token of ...
Dress Code	8/22/2008
Q: I was recently in a meeting with my female sales manager. When the potential client with whom we ... A: Stacey, It is not inappropriate to bring a purse/handbag for business. The rule is that no matter ...
writing a letter after being fired	8/15/2008
Q: I was recently fired from a well known casino, they say the reason was unacceptable behavior. I have ... A: Sal, It is unfortunate to hear of your circumstance. The odds of gaining back your position with ...
poor service	8/12/2008
Q: My Name is Frank R Shafer, I been going to Friendly’s in Torrington Ct 06790 for years. I stopped ... A: Mr. Shafer, Is Friendly's a national chain that serves food and ice cream? It is unfortunate in ...
PHD's	7/26/2008
Q: Is it appropriate to list a PH.D. in advertising etc that, while earned, is not relative to the ... A: Richard, A PH.D is well deserved as it requires tenacity and hard work. In most cultures a PH.D is ...
How to Quit Professionally	7/10/2008
Q: I will be resigning from my job on a set date of 7/31, and I am planning on telling my boss 3 weeks ... A: Will, Please do not use email. Compose a letter of resignation, as you will need it for their ...
Workplace drama	6/11/2008
Q: I am a hairstylist and rent a booth from a salon with 3 owners. Our building has indoor garage ... A: Ashley, What if the paid spot was rotated so that each person had the opportunity to have a free ...
To Wear or Not to Wear?	6/4/2008
Q: My question is in regards to dress shirts. I notice that more and more dress shirts don’t have ... A: Be sure that the collared shirts are starched medium to heavy to ensure the collar will hold. When ...
ref	4/27/2008
Q: Good day, Lets say you are just starting out in business and trying to network with high profile men ... A: Sam, A good book to read to get along with others regardless of social standing is "How to Win ...
return to work	4/4/2008
Q: I am a hair salon owner. I took a leave of absence from work nine months ago to stay home with my ... A: Amy, Your letter could read: I am happy to announce my return to work on a regular basis (perhaps ...
Cover Letters & Resume	4/3/2008
Q: Good Morning Denise, I am writing cover letters and resumes to be sent to CEO's for a Senior ... A: Bob, Use 100% cotton paper (look for watermark) in 24 or 28lb (preferred), it maintains integrity ...
Spouses at casual business dinners	4/1/2008
Q: I have always enjoyed taking customers out to dinner in a casual setting along with their spouse to ... A: Don, Who mentioned it is not warranted or justified? It may be budgetary if on the company dollar. ...
returning to you're old job after resigning.	3/14/2008
Q: I'm having a small issue and I am not sure what to do. I recently resigned from a job that i was in ... A: Miguel, I will need more information. Are you saying that you had to resign from the Academy ...
interview with morethen one person	1/29/2008
Q: I went on a 2 1/2 hour interview. I met with people in groups. To send the follow-up thank you, do ... A: Sylvia, Ideally, if you have contact detail for each individual then send a handwritten note of ...
babysittig problems	1/26/2008
Q: i want to babysit at 11 but there is this woman to her job is to babysit.What should i do? A: Tia, Are you saying a woman is babysitting as a job? and you would like to babysit too? You can ...
ending a business relationship	1/19/2008
Q: I am considering ending my professional relationship with my CPA. As my business has grown, I find ... A: A hard copy (not email)letter of termination of services would be in your best interest as a paper ...
Partnership vs. Sole Proprietership	1/14/2008
Q: But I coud not find a catagory this fell under. I have and am taking a wonderful, prosperous ... A: Julene, You may want to consider this venture on your own. You may partner using the person's ...
Resume etiquette	12/26/2007
Q: When responding to a website job posting stating "email or fax resume", after emailing a resume, ... A: Most companies have strict rules about follow-up by phone or email. You may want to send a hard ...
Etiquette for Opening Bonus envelope	12/20/2007
Q: I work for a small office, and the boss typically hands each of the support staff an individual ... A: Barbara, I would suggest that you open the envelope at a later time, as each bonus may not be the ...
Formal letter writing	12/13/2007
Q: how do i write a letter to my boss requesting for an office equipment or appropraite account codes ... A: Sylvia, There are several options; one is an internal memo request, the other would be a more ...
How to talk with seniors at work place...	11/30/2007
Q: I am Pradip Patil, from India. i am software professional , have recently got a job in one company ... A: Pradip, I would recommend seeking out a business etiquette professional in your area to assist with ...
social invites sent to business addresses	11/28/2007
Q: We are having an on-going debate in our office. We produce an annual black-tie event that raises ... A: Janice, The man's name always appears first when addressing envelopes to a couple. If an honorific ...
Should hourly employee be compensated for a business lunch	11/17/2007
Q: From my past experiences I would assume that if a boss offers to take an employee out to lunch that ... A: Brianna, Corporate policy would dictate compensation. However, in most cases, a business lunch ...
ask for an interview	11/13/2007
Q: I have applied on line for several jobs at an insurance company. I have 15 years experience working ... A: Michele, Please be aware the success percentage of online resume submissions is only about 13%. ...
Business Voicemail	10/29/2007
Q: We are a commercial lender and just had a new phone system installed. The President of our company ... A: Jo, Record in her voice that the caller has reached the office of "John Doe" and to please leave a ...
Business Lunch Location	10/22/2007
Q: My husband is the manager of a nice restaurant that rarely has a wait and has the perfect business ... A: It is quite acceptable to dine at the restaurant your husband manages. It is not necessary to let ...
Announcement letter to customer	10/18/2007
Q: Help! A month ago, I quit my job at a mortgage company because another employee had engaged in some ... A: Amy, A professional letter announcing your commitment to your employer, confirming for your ...
How do I get my job back	10/10/2007
Q: I was fired from a radio station as a Program Director a year ago. Since the station is in Delaware, ... A: Steve, First, be aware that a company does not have to provide a reason when releasing an employee. ...
Business Dress	9/10/2007
Q: In regard to business attire, there seems to be a profitable answer and a right answer. I read ... A: Mr. Hall, Thank you for your insight. We live in a visually oriented society where visual ...
Delivery methods of Thank You notes	9/5/2007
Q: We have a debate in our office as to whether the delivery of Thank You cards by hand to business ... A: You certainly may hand deliver, however, keep in mind that it may be seen as an intrusion without an ...
Type of Invites	8/23/2007
Q: We are planning and event where one of our Doctor's will be hosting a talk discussing the cost ... A: It will depend on the impression you are planning to make and how it represents your fitness center. ...
Suck Ups (is there a more PC name?)	8/15/2007
Q: I work with a someone that is a 150% suck up. He knows I don't like his behavior so now he has been ... A: Lena, There are many times in business when we have to be tolerant of those in our workplace. You ...
business etiquette for teens	7/31/2007
Q: My teenage son is starting a job. I want to be sure he is well versed in business etiquette and the ... A: Annie, If you type in business etiquette in the search bar of your internet provider, a host of ...
Voice Mail Greeting	7/12/2007
Q: The lawyer I worked for has just left the firm. I have to compose a voice mail greeting for her ... A: Marsha, I would redirect the call to a key contact at the firm or to the administrative ...
Wedding gift	7/11/2007
Q: I received a wedding invitation from the daughter of one of my staff members. I am unable to attend, ... A: Bob, Base your gift on the relationship with the staff member and see the daughter as an extension ...
business card protocol	7/3/2007
Q: Our president has a Lions Club logo on the front of his business card. Is this considered ... A: Davy, The Lions club is a social/community/global organization and does not have any religious ...
Pay Disparity	6/11/2007
Q: I have been working for a company for 7 months in a PRN status, hired originally to help the FT ... A: Mindy, Compensation is always a complicated factor in the place of business. It is important that ...
workplace clique	6/6/2007
Q: About six months ago I started working at a firm at which me and another lady are the only two ... A: Jill, It is easy to get caught up in workplace politics and social discourse, however, do not allow ...
Business Etiquette	6/1/2007
Q: After being Prommoted how do I thak the Owner/CEO After 18 applicants that turned in esssya only 3 ... A: Did you interview directly with the Owner/CEO? If so, then address them directly, and if not, then ...
Complaints on Business Letterhead?	5/23/2007
Q: If you are sending a letter of complaint to your human resources department should one use company ... A: If this is an internal document I would recommend that you do not address a letter of complaint on ...
Requesting Appropriate Attire	5/18/2007
Q: Ms. Taylor, I am coordinating a function in August for my company. The owner (manager) of the ... A: Erin, Obtain the dress code detail from the location and because summer garden party attire is ...
attorneys	5/7/2007
Q: Denise, I am a newly-trained Nurse Life Care Planner. It seems attorneys are looking for NLCP's. ... A: Crystal, I would begin by contacting firms in your area and asking the receptionist or ...
College Meeting	4/19/2007
Q: Taylor, I have a meeting with a college representative coming up who also works in the field I ... A: Ed, Dress in a professional manner, if a suit is too formal, consider sport coat, shirt, tie, and ...
Names	4/18/2007
Q: How do you respond to a business associate who has addressed you by the wrong name on several ... A: Lisa, Be sure to correct an individual immediately when you recognize they have mispronounced, ...
letterhead	4/17/2007
Q: Is it formal for business purposes in the US to print a letterhead as well as the text on a blank ... A: Formal letterhead is usually found on 100% cotton paper 24lb or 28lb in weight, with letterhead at ...
Shirt Etiquette	3/31/2007
Q: At my place of employment [Car Audio & Home Theater Store] we have two styles of shirts. Each shirt ... A: Based on your description, one is a three button, polo shirt (casual) and the other is a button ...
Help Making Rain	3/28/2007
Q: I'm a piddly little junior associate at a huge firm and it's never too early to think about rain ... A: Junior Associate, Do you have any morning timeslots or lunch slots available during your day/week? ...
Thank you letters?	3/23/2007
Q: I recently accepted a new offer with the assistance of a "head Hunter" I am going to send a thank ... A: I apologize for the delayed response, I had server trouble. A thank you letter, handwritten, is ...
Let go without any notification	3/8/2007
Q: I was working at a job with maybe 0 to 4 hours a month. I called frequently to see if I was on the ... A: Cindy, Unfortunately when you read the tiny print on most employment agreements, an employee can be ...
Not Clocking out for a Dinner Meeting	2/6/2007
Q: Our office had the pleasure of meeting the president of the company who flew in and hosted a ... A: Kristine, Corporate policy usually dictates this particular situation. However, future ...
Apology	1/22/2007
Q: Taylor, One question that comes to mind is what price I should expect to pay for a quality business ... A: Ed, Your first suit should be of high quality and the price may range about $400.00-$600.00. There ...
Handling a delicate situation	1/8/2007
Q: The wife of one of my company's VPs recently made headlines for some illegal activity involving ... A: Dan, Concern is a natural response to such a situation. However, other than remaining aware and ...
Name Tags	1/6/2007
Q: We are having a company function (Employee & 1 guest) my boss wants us to wear nametags as not all ... A: Wendy, The name of each individual should be noted (without further explanation) on the name tag, ...
Business Etiquette for celebrating a Promotion	12/30/2006
Q: If someone has been promoted to Partner in a large national company - (500 people in 4 locations) ... A: Susan, The family may provide celebration for such an achievement, however, it should remain a ...
Holiday Bonuses	12/18/2006
Q: Is it appropriate to send a thank you note for a year end bonus. This is not a formal part of the ... A: Mr. Guimot, It is not always customary to send a thank you note for holiday bonus. However, when ...
Luncheon Invitations	12/4/2006
Q: Every year I take my staff out to lunch, my treat, as their Christmas present. This year one of my ... A: Ann, Although it was inappropriate of the individual to invite the General Manager to your ...
Vocabulary and speech	11/20/2006
Q: Taylor, In keeping with the positive changes you have assisted me with, I am wondering if perhaps ... A: Ed, If you visit your local library they have audio programs on tape or cd to improve speech, ...
Office name tag	10/18/2006
Q: I know eqiquette states to wear a name tag on your right shoulder when in a meeting. Does that apply ... A: Carla, The rule was created to follow the line of sight when shaking hands. Typically, we shake ...
Polo Shirts	10/17/2006
Q: At my place of employment it is exceptable to wear polo shirts under our suits. Should the polo ... A: Don, Is the polo shirt worn under a sport coat with trousers? Or is the polo shirt worn under a ...
When intoducing a female salesperson to a male prospect, whose name should be spoken first	9/28/2006
Q: I am currently a college student and i have a report due in school. On question i must answer is ... A: Liz, In business introductions it is not about gender in relation to whom is first. It is about ...
Political function	9/12/2006
Q: Ms. Taylor! On a somewhat related note, is it more appropriate to address my relative who is a judge ... A: Ed, I would ask your relative their preference. In a more informal format they may allow for a ...
Political function	9/11/2006
Q: Taylor, I have been invited to attend a political function for a woman who is running for the state ... A: If the individual is currently in the legislature then you would address her as the title ( i.e. ...
Interview Follow Up	9/6/2006
Q: Is it appropriate after a job interview to send a small gift along with a hand-written thank you to ... A: Ira, A hand-written thank you note is sufficient. I would recommend holding off on the sending of ...
who extends the hand	9/5/2006
Q: when two people are introduced who exteds the hand first? the more important first? the lady when is ... A: In the place of business there is no gender, everything is gender neutral regarding etiquette. The ...
finding a job	8/31/2006
Q: hi sorry if i have come too the wrong part but i was wondering if u could help me im goin for a job ... A: Natalie, Before I begin I would recommend that you use complete spelling of words and not the ...
Responding to congratulation notes	8/16/2006
Q: I have received many, many notes of congratulations from colleaques (via email) on my recent ... A: Erin, Acknowledgement is always appreciated on both sides. Always respond with a reply so that the ...
Calling in sick	8/15/2006
Q: How can I stress to my 23 year old daughter that it is very important to not call in sick when you ... A: Trisha, I understand your frustration. I also know that at the age of 23 social status and "having ...
moving	7/21/2006
Q: im going to be returning to the work force next year but it has been 12 years since i held any job ... A: Laura, There are many books available, however, the one that you may find useful for your ...
Men's shirts	7/21/2006
Q: Taylor, Along those lines, can you offer some advice on what color/patterned shirts convey the best ... A: John, Although there are many options in patterned dress shirts, the basics still rule when the ...
Men's shirts	7/18/2006
Q: Taylor, Can I ask your opinion on men's short sleeved dress shirts? (Basic whites, blues, etc.). ... A: John, Although short sleeved dress shirts may be appealing with rising temperatures, I would ...
Can't remember name	7/17/2006
Q: You meet someone who you have already been introduced to but cannot remember their name, especially ... A: Keith, Extend your hand for a handshake, say "hello", and indicate that you apologize but simply ...
New Job and Vacation	7/12/2006
Q: I have been offered a job at a new law firm starting the beginning of August. However, I have a ... A: Ashley, It is important to be up front regarding your vacation plans. Indicate your pre-planned ...
Lunch Attire	7/6/2006
Q: Taylor, I am sorry for yet again asking another question! When I have lunch in a similar setting ... A: Ed, Make it a great day, and let us know if your in need of any future guidance. Have a great day! ...
asking for your job back	6/25/2006
Q: I put my two weeks in and then about two days before it was up I had a run in with the ass. manager ... A: First, determine if you really want to continue to work for the company that you considered leaving. ...
Lunch Attire	6/23/2006
Q: I occasionally have lunch with a relative who works as a County Judge. It is always near the ... A: When in doubt always err on the side of formality. Although the individual is a relative, it is ...
Etiquette Business Invitation	6/17/2006
Q: Denise, I am an event planner and I have a client that is having her company's 25th anniversary ... A: L. York, Unfortunately our casual and hectic paced lifestyles have watched the RSVP suffer the ...
Recent promotion	5/30/2006
Q: I recently received a significant promotion at work which included a 20% raise. I don't feel that ... A: Faith, Please check with your corporate policy. Some organizations frown upon any significant gift ...
promotions	5/22/2006
Q: what is the protocol in these two situations? Thank you for your help. the director of a large ... A: A thank you is always welcomed. A handwritten congratulations, or thank you would be appropriate. ...
Professional Hair	5/9/2006
Q: I'm starting my new job with a very well-known company in a week. The dress is business-casual and ... A: Christina, I did respond to your request, and apparently it did not process properly. Hair ...
job for 12 year olds	4/30/2006
Q: i cant have a pet here or a walking service i need a babysitting job that pays 30-20 dollers a week ... A: Kamri, I began babysitting at your age, and it is a wonderful way to earn the money. I would ...
Restaurant Cleanliness Complaint	3/17/2006
Q: I have a question about restaurants. I called in an order from my cell phone at a local pizza ... A: It is completely understandable to have food safety concerns when dining out. It is also ...
Office appropriate attire	12/16/2005
Q: I haven't found articles to address this topic yet. We have a small office of 30 employees - 50/50 ... A: The company should compile a clear cut dress code for their place of business and as it pertains to ...
Holiday Gifts to customers	11/29/2005
Q: Is it ok to give a bottle of wine or liquir to a customer for the holidays? A: It is not that it is "not" ok to provide wine or liquor as a gift, however, it can possibly reflect ...
Real Work from Home Jobs?	10/24/2005
Q: this may be a bit out of your expertise; however, I am getting desperate trying to find a real work ... A: Because you appear to have a background of almost ten years in desktop publishing you may want to ...
Excluded spouse	9/12/2005
Q: My husband's company is having a formal event in Las Vegas in a few weeks. The main event is a ... A: This is not an uncommon practice in organizations to have corporate functions that do not include ...
New Job ettiquette	7/8/2005
Q: I've accepted a position that is less hours and less money than I need, because I was getting ... A: If you are aware that this particular position is truly not of interest, and you are seeking other ...
12 jobs...	7/4/2005
Q: is there any pet jobs for 12 year olds? or am i too young? -fernanda A: You may want to consider starting your own dog walking service for the summer. Also,consider many ...
Work dress	6/15/2005
Q: I work in an VERY casual office. It is just my boss and me and I am usually alone. He typically ... A: I would first start by pointing out that there are statistics available that prove the way you ...
career planning	6/4/2005
Q: I AM AN INDIA.I HAVE COMPLETED MY TWELVETH THIS YEAR.I WANT TO BECOME A BUSINESSMAN.NOW I AM ... A: First, I would recommend when sending email, do not write in all capital letters, when reading it is ...
How to proceed	5/12/2005
Q: Here is the rest of the information: I have worked for my current employer for 3 years now. I just ... A: You should make sure your employment file is current and I would suggest that you supply the most ...
How to proceed	5/11/2005
Q: I'm a Programmer/Analyst with 15 years of experience in the field, but my formal education all these ... A: I will need more information. Have you worked for your current company for the entire 15 years? ...
Proper followup after submitting a resume	3/24/2005
Q: What is the proper procedure after submitting a resume? Should I follow with a phone call, ... A: Many companies that post listings in the newspaper receive hundreds of responses from those looking ...
Business Adminsitration - Computer Info Systems Degree jobs.	3/23/2005
Q: I am a recent graduate student from Mount Olive College down in NC. I am currently living with my ... A: Your biggest asset in the process of a job search will be the people that you know. You may want to ...
What to do?	3/9/2005
Q: I am not sure that this matter falls directly under your area of expertise, but here goes. I have ... A: First of all, I would recommend you take a step back and separate personal feelings from ...
greeting potential employers	2/18/2005
Q: ------------------------- Thanks for your advice. I also wanted to know what topic should I start ... A: Conversation at networking events can prove to be very powerful. Stay on current events, hobbies of ...
greeting potential employers	2/16/2005
Q: I am a college student doing a study abroad in China. A friend told me I should look into finding ... A: It is a wonderful suggestion to take on an internship with an organization that has ties to China. ...
RE-ENTERING JOB FORCE	1/6/2005
Q: .this is my first time on your site and i have a question. With this being the new year and all - i ... A: Your situation is not uncommon. The past year and a half has been a challenge for many individuals. ...
career	1/2/2005
Q: I am currently working as a Lab analyst with a big pharmaceutical company, I have a diploma in ... A: This is a difficult question to answer. It is important for you to do an assessment of where you ...
Interview Follow up protocol	9/10/2004
Q: It was very helpful. I have one last question regarding this issue. What if the location if far ... A: The thank you note should be sent through the mail, and specifically addressed to your contact ...
Interview Follow up protocol	9/9/2004
Q: I sent a thank you note, via email, when I arrived home from an important interview 2 weeks ago. I ... A: First of all, now or in the future, please refrain from using the internet to send thank you ...
high school students learning etiquette	8/17/2004
Q: Denise, I teach Food Prep and Blueprint for Professional Success in a high school. How do you ... A: I work with summer youth camps and what is termed "at-risk" in my community and it is truly ...

All Questions in This Category

Business Etiquette

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Denise Anne Taylor

Top Expert on this page

Expertise

Business Etiquette, International Protocol, Dining/Table Manners, Professionalism in the Workplace, Attire, and more. Do not allow career limiting behavior to sabotage your ability for workplace success. Ask the questions that will get you ahead!

Experience

Subject Matter Expert with broad-based background in business etiquette, international protocol, and executive dining skills as well as other workplace related topics on conflict resolution and career transition. Trained and certified by The Protocol School of Washington the nations leading protocol and etiquette firm. Programs provided to major corporations, educational institutions, and associations throughout the country.

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science-Oakland University, Rochester Hills, MI Certification-Protocol School of Washington Sandler Sales Training Dale Carnegie Sales Management Training

Encyclopedia

Browse Answers: