Techniques for 2009

With everyone focused on settling into the New Year, we often find ourselves beginning to forget the niceties that make our holidays enjoyable. Remembering such simple techniques as the ones below can really make your customers, business co-workers, friends and families smile and leave them with a postive experience.. and we can all use more positive experiences..

• Let the other person finish the sentence before interrupting.

• Find some reason to compliment the person you're with.

• Don't start eating until everyone is served.

• Don't show pictures of your family unless someone asks.

• Tip good service well.

• Never ask for separate cheques when someone suggests to split things evenly.

• Ask for advice from someone you like, even if you don't really need it.

• Follow someone else's suggestion for an activity, even if you're not good at it.

• Don't be the last to sit at the table or the first to leave it.

• Pretend you're sharing deep secrets and keep your voice down on your mobile calls.

• Dress appropriately for the setting — jeans are not "business casual" unless you're a cowboy.

Good luck with January and 2009