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Sticky Conversations

by jill on February 3, 2012

Managers often need to have challenging conversations with those they manage.  Dress code infractions, absenteeism, and poor performance are just a few of the topics they might need to address.  No one likes to conducts those meetings, but it’s always better to deal with the issues sooner rather than later. It’s also good to have [...]

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6 Etiquette Tips for the Office Holiday Party

by jill on December 8, 2010

Holiday parties at the office can be great fun and a nice way to celebrate the year with your co-workers, but they can also be a career minefield if not handled well. Remember – you’re still “on” and being observed by others. Look at these events as opportunities to put your best food forward and [...]

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Wisdom from the beauty salon

by jill on March 11, 2010

I heard a great line at the beauty salon today – “You can teach skills.  You can’t teach attitude.” How true.  My stylist, Tina, who is co-owner of both the salon as well as Paul Mitchell the School-Chicago, and I were discussing the challenge of finding the right people to hire.  Her business is really [...]

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DO research the job position and company via the internet and the relationships you’ve developed through networking.  Know the organization’s needs and how you can help. Click here to read the rest of the article.

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Interview Etiquette – 7 Important Don’ts

by jill on February 17, 2010

DON’T be late for interviews. Confirm the time, address, building number, parking.  Remember that security check-ins may take time.  Also – be no more than 5 minutes early.  Too early and you advertise you have nothing else to do. Click here to read the rest of the article.

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Gift-Giving Etiquette in the Workplace

by jill on December 9, 2009

In general, professionals should avoid giving gifts that are too personal.  Consider anything that touches skin as inappropriate (scents, bath products, clothing, lingerie).  Also be careful giving gifts of alcohol or food – research the recipient’s tastes as well as possible challenges/allergies with either category. Gifts to co-workers – Keep “Secret Santa’ gifts simple and [...]

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Executive Etiquette Tip – Email

by jill on July 29, 2009

Email works best with few flourishes. Keep your message and intent clear by avoiding emoticons, exclamation points, unusual fonts or stationery, and personal sayings.  Text-style abbreviations and acronyms work only when the recipient knows what they stand for. Caps can be used to emphasize positive words only (“Your presentation was GREAT”, not “You are an [...]

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