"The Etiquette Advantage" is a free monthly online publication from 1^st Impressions, Inc.  It is geared for those who want to enhance their self-confidence, heighten their communication skills, and outclass their competition.

This free subscription publication should come to you only if you have requested it or because you have a pre-existing relationship with Patricia Whitaker or her business, 1^st Impressions, Inc.  

Visit us on the web at www.1stimpressionsonline.com

Introductions are an important part of business. Handled appropriately and with ease, they are the mark of a polished business professional. The following are a few dos and don'ts of making introductions:

1. Always show deference to clients, senior executives, distinguished guests and high-ranking dignitaries by stating their names first. For example, "Mr. Davis (senior executive), I would like to introduce Ms. Eliot (junior executive)."
2. When introducing members of the opposite sex, use age and rank or degree of distinction as a guide. Business etiquette is gender neutral.
3. If someone has forgotten to introduce you, take the initiative and introduce yourself. Smile, extend your hand and say, "I don't believe we've met. My name is so-and-so."
4. Never refer to yourself as Mr., Mrs., Dr. and so on. Other people give you an honorific. You don't give one to yourself.
5. To help you remember someone's name, repeat it as soon as you are introduced, saying, for example, "How do you do, Mr. Davis?", then say the name several times during the conversation.
6. If you are unsure of how to pronounce someone's name, simply ask them to repeat it and they will generally do so slower and more pronounced.
7. When possible, always add a little information to go with a name. That will give people a springboard for conversation. For example, "Ms. Smith, this is Dr. Williams, vice president of marketing." "Ms. Smith is president of XYZ Company."

Final note:  A name tag is a nonverbal form of communication. Write your name so it takes up the entire space and can be easily read. Wear the name tag on the upper right portion of your garment. Why? Because when you shake someone's hand, their line of vision travels from your eyes, down your right shoulder to your extended hand. It is far easier to read your name tag when it is in the line of vision.

Make Note of It

You are Invited to the Following Upcoming Workshops

• Dining Etiquette  -  April 6^th and May 4^th
• Polishing Your Professional Image  -  April 27^th

Visit the Chesterfield Adult Education website to register or call 804-768-6140 for a catalog

In the News...

Patricia Whitaker, President of 1st Impressions, Inc., quoted in Richmond Times Dispatch. (read article)

Quotes for the Month

"You may fool all the people some of the time, you can even fool some of the people all of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all the time." ~ Abraham Lincoln

"The trouble with her is that she lacks the power of conversation but not the power of speech.

~ George Bernard Shaw

1^st Impressions, Inc. offers a variety of customized workshops and private consultations for business owners, employees, and individuals on professional presence, business protocol, effective communication, interviewing skills and dining etiquette. A unique program designed especially for teens, Skills 4 Success, is also highly recommended.  

1^st Impressions, Inc. provides the polished finishing touches that help you project a lasting impression of power, poise, confidence and professionalism.