Etiquette and Manners in Life

Etiquette and Manners for Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 06:08:00 +0000

With the anxious feelings about going to an interview, it can be easy to mess up by not having the best manners. Not manners like keeping your elbows off the table mind you, but good etiquette. In a job interview setting, it can be easy to make silly mistakes that might offend someone and in turn cost you the position. Here are a few good ideas to help you keep your interviewing manners in check.

Show up early. Being late to an interview will make a lasting impression, but not a good one. Especially if you are unsure of the location, it is best to leave with plenty of time to find the correct building and account for possible traffic jams. If you arrive more than 15 minutes early, just wait outside or in the car before entering the building. It could be terribly uncomfortable if someone has an interview before you do and is still waiting in the lobby. This is true for both you and the other person. Be early, not less than 5 minutes but not more than 15 minutes. Think of it this way: If you are late, it will signify to your potential employer that you may ALWAYS be late. In getting to work, and on deadlines.
Have a great handshake. You don't need to put on the vice grips, but don't "dead-fish" your potential boss either. Your handshake gives off a good first impression, so make it count. A firm, confident handshake is the way to go.
Everyone deserves respect. You need not only impress the person you are interviewing with. It could be very possible that the receptionist or someone sitting just off the waiting area is in on the decision making. Receptionists are often asked what their first impression was of you, so treat everyone kindly. You just really never know who is watching.
Never be a no-show. If you figure out you're really not interested, call to cancel. Don't waste everyone's time by just not showing up. You never know in your career whom you will have to work with down the line, so it's best to not make enemies before they even meet you.
Be prepared. Research and know something about the company you're interviewing with. If you know something about the company, it shows interest and gives you a great leg up. Don't waste their time interviewing if it truly isn't a company you can't work for. Also, bring along all of your reference information, resume and portfolio. Make that preparedness really work to your advantage.

Fashion Etiquette for Men

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 05:56:00 +0000

Fashion is not exclusively for ladies. A good understanding of fashion is something that men should not easily take for granted. Having a good fashion sense will definitely benefit a man more than once in his lifetime. And what's more, it may already give him an edge over other men. In fact, knowing even the basics of men's fashion is already a man's asset as he can use it readily for his advantage.

Though fashion trends come and go, one should at least know dress etiquette - not just what looks good on you, but what is appropriate. What goes with that one, or what should you wear for this event or another. Fashion etiquette is applicable in many areas of a man's life. Whenever you need to dress up, you'll find a good fashion sense very handy. Also, if you're very familiar with this one, it's unlikely you'll commit dress code mistakes.
Sometimes being traditional is the way it is, where going out of norm is not a good idea. Being underdressed or overdressed for an occasion is not good either, so pay attention especially if a specific dress code is required. No matter what signature brands you are wearing, it rarely is enough to make up for this huge mistake. Anyway, nobody will care to find out what brand you're wearing, as to why you're wearing that in the first place.
There are general rules in fashion that you should keep in mind. Know what is acceptable, and what is standard. This is true with a man's personal and social life. Different occasions in life may require different dress codes too.
For example, formal occasions require formal attire. For example are weddings, balls, dances, dinners, formal parties, etc. White tie events are the most formal. Always refer to the dress code indicated to avoid fashion mishaps. For black tie events, which are most common, men's formal attire is composed of a black tuxedo with trousers, white dress shirt with tuxedo front, black bow tie, cummerbund, black socks and black, glossy, leather shoes. Black tie events can have variations at times, depending on the dress code stated. For example, you can wear colored shirts instead of white.

The familiar dark suit with tie is standard for professional attire that you wear to the office or business events. However, with this one you have more freedom to choose which ones you like - like which color would you wear today or which tie will go with that shirt. You can wear more than one color for your shirt and there are different designs of neck ties too. There are solid colored ties, and patterned ties. You can also mix and match colors and dominant designs.
For casual wear of course, shirts, shorts, and jeans are staples. But if you noticed, your choice largely depends on where you're going. Are you going for a stroll in the mall, or night-out, or on a big game? You can also wear hats or caps, but you should know when you to remove them - for example, when entering a building or establishment. It's proper etiquette to remove your head gear when indoors. For foot wear, there are different kinds of casual shoes to choose from. You can also wear flipflops in some occasions.

Advice on Calling Men in Your Life

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 05:46:00 +0000

Virtually every woman can benefit from advice on calling men. This is one aspect of a relationship that most of us struggle with. We want nothing more than to have the man we love pick up the phone once in a while to call us. If you are one of the many women guilty of waiting endlessly for your man to call, you're not alone. This happens to many of us and leaves us wondering what exactly we should be doing to change the dynamic of the relationship so he's the one picking up the phone and calling instead of us having to always do it. If you're tired of your man's nonchalant attitude towards phone calls, now is the time to change it.
One piece of advice on calling men that you may have overlooked is to stop calling him when he's late calling you. As women we have a habit of becoming a bit panicky if we haven't heard from our man when he said we would. A good example is if your boyfriend says he'll call you in the afternoon to make plans for that night, and it's now approaching evening. Instead of making your own plans since you haven't heard from him, you wait all evening and perhaps into the night for him to call. When he doesn't contact you, you're frustrated and angry and call him complaining about his lack of interest and respect. Doing this won't change anything. In fact, it only serves to show him that his lack of attention to you has really no consequences and even if he doesn't call, you eventually will.
If you find yourself in this situation the best advice on calling men is to not call him. Even if an entire day passes since he said he'd call, don't pick up the phone to track him down. Let as much time as needed pass before he calls you. Once he does call, act a little distant and disinterested. Don't be rude to him. Treat him more like a friend than a boyfriend. This is subtle, but if you can do it, you'll show him, through your actions, that he doesn't have you in the palm of his hand. If he senses that you're starting to lose interest in him, because of his behaviour, he'll smarten up quickly and before you know it he'll be the one always calling you.

You need to always remember that men and women view phone calls, emails and text in very different ways. If you make the mistake of calling too frequently, at the wrong time or before he's ready to hear from you, you can actually turn him off. Women unwittingly ruin their chances of a future with a man because they are too over eager to hear from him. Don't let this happen to you.

Dating Advice For Women

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 21 Nov 2010 05:35:00 +0000

Dating isn't as easy as it used to be. There was a time, not that long ago, when a woman could spend an evening with a man then wait for him to call for that anticipated second date and not have to worry about phone call rules or when to text message him. It's not that easy anymore. Men and women are now being subjected to all types of advice regarding when to call each other and when not to call. Gone are the days when the phone was simply used as a tool of communication. It's now become an integral piece of the dating dynamic. When it comes to calling men, dating etiquette suggests you shouldn't be the one doing the calling at all.
The basis for this bit of dating advice is simple. Women are more independent now and with that independence come choices. Even if you had an incredible time with a man and you anticipate the date progressing into a relationship, you shouldn't be the one calling. By not calling men, dating women are silently getting a very important message across. That message is that they want to be pursued and aren't going to be the one begging for attention.
Men also use the telephone as a tool of manipulation at times. If a man isn't completely sure of how you feel about him, he may intentionally not contact you at all. If you track him down within days, he's going to feel that he has a firm hold on you. Once a man senses that, he instinctively doesn't feel he needs to try as hard to win your affection. A much better alternative when it comes to calling men, dating women should employ, is to simply wait to hear from him, regardless of how long that takes. It can be tough to be patient, but this is one instance, when patience will get you exactly what you want and that's the man you are interested in.

Dating Manners

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 14:21:00 +0000

So many budding romances are killed off at the first fence because of our inability to contain our curiosity, keep our mouths shut or dress conservatively. The art of getting to know our fellow human beings is one rarely mastered easily and wrong impressions are often conveyed through nerves or simple impatience.
First dates are terrible. Nerves are understandable considering your chosen companion for the evening is naturally about to assess all your faults and virtues and no doubt find some of them unacceptable.

The trick is to try not to care too much about the second date and concentrate on getting through the first one. Try to be yourself - up to a point - if 'being yourself' involves drinking to excess and then dancing on the table, it might be a good idea to exercise some constraint until you get to know your date a little better!
Before you agree to the date, ask about dress code. If you are going casual, make sure 'casual' does not include torn or grubby clothing. Make sure your hair is brushed and shining and your fingernails are clean and properly manicured. The casual approach is nice as long as there is still some attention paid to basic cleanliness and a nice waft of expensive perfume or after shave in the vicinity.
Formal wear can be a little more complicated but it is unlikely first daters will have to be troubled by formal attire. Low cut dresses are out of the question and pay some attention to wearing reasonable heels. Four inch heels will diminish all but the tallest of men and give the impression of dominance.

Having appeared at the designated time and place (don´t be late), take some time to assess your companion quietly rather than gushing all over the place without giving him (or her) a chance to say hello. If the restaurant is your companion's choice then be sure to politely allow them to ask for the menu, decide where to sit and generally be the one to communicate with the waiter, until such time as you are invited to make your own choices.
If you should decide you like your partner for the evening, remember to give them plenty of time to tell you about themselves rather than hogging the conversation. There should be plenty to say on first getting to know someone; if there isn´t then perhaps you have little in common. Should that be the case, try to enjoy the evening as a one off and not dwell too much on the disappointment of not meeting your dream soul mate. There are plenty more fish in the ocean.
Keep the conversation general rather than personal, unless private information is freely volunteered, and remember that personal information is a two way exchange; if you are not comfortable with imparting private facts about yourself then do not enquire about someone else's.

Table Manners For Young Children

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 14:12:00 +0000

Having good table manners is important for young children. The table etiquette should be taught and cultivated as early as possible. It is not just about eating properly. It is about being thoughtful and respecting other people on the same table.
Let me share with you some practical tips which you can apply on your kids.
· What is the basic thing a kid should do before and after having his or her meals? It is important for the parents to fix one house rule, i.e. kids must wash their hands and faces before and after every meal. Cleanliness is the most important.
· Some young children like to bring along their toys or pets when they are having meals. It is not correct. Never ever allow your kids to bring along anything to the dining table.
· Having the right body posture is important. Kids must be reminded to sit up straight when they are at the dining table.
· If there are guests or other family members joining the meals, you should tell your kids to wait for everyone to be seated at the table before they can start having their meals.
· Tell your kids to chew their food with mouth closed. At the same time, you need to remind them not to talk when their mouth is full. It is impolite and they may have a choke. They must be reminded to cover their mouth if they sneeze at the dining table.
· When young children are dining outside, it is important for you to teach them not to give negative comments about any food served. Even if the food is bad, they should not be "too honest" as it may hurt someone's feeling.
· Saying "Thank you" after the meals is essential. We need to teach our young children to appreciate what they have. They should be grateful for having sufficient food to eat. At the same time, ask your children to thank the person who prepares the meals.
· It is rude to reach over someone's plate for something. Hence, you need to remind your kids to say "Excuse me" and "Please" when they want to ask for something.
As all of us are aware, young kids like to imitate the adults. As parents, you are the role models to your kids. Hence, you are reminded to show good examples when you are having meals with them. Start practicing good manners with your kids on the table from today onwards.

Maintaining Cleanliness in Home

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 14:04:00 +0000

We start to realize how untidy & disorganized our home becomes when there is no daily cleaning maintenance. Some of us may have not have maids to keep our home constantly clean & tidy.
Dirty laundry, dishes, unfinished food etc left on its own can contribute to stress, harbor bacteria and create displeasing smells.
Children can easily contribute to the home looking like a mess. Teach our children how to clean up after themselves from a young age. Later on when they have their own homes, they will appreciate how important it is to have a clean home & not fall into the category of the domestically challenged (D.C.).
The most important rule to having a clean home, work space, living room, bedroom etc is to become organized. Organizing a cleaning routine is essential in maintaining a good & clean home environment.
A rule of thumb while maintaining home cleanliness is to make sure you are done with cleaning one room before going on to the next room. Have your children make up their own bed upon awakening so it can be less work for you. Firstly, remove all items that do not belong in the room & put them in a laundry basket. Now is a good chance to pick up & throw away garbage that is found in the room. Vacuum, sweep, mop & clean the floor, table & other surfaces as necessary. Consequently, you may consider the first room as cleaned.

Repeat the process when cleaning all other rooms. Bring & browse through the basket of misplaced items & place them where you think they belong as you go through cleaning all the rooms. Every item has its place and should remain at its place after usage. Keep on doing it until the basket is empty. Avoid placing the basket full of items in the closet. You may forget about them. Besides, the laundry basket is meant for laundry.
The sequential room cleaning process prevents you from becoming confused as to which room has been cleaned or requires cleaning. It can create more relaxing moments for you & save your energy too. Have a bucket of cleaning supplies on all levels of the home & perhaps for every bathroom. It can make the task of cleaning more convenient & efficient. Therefore, you can always be ready for a cleaning situation that requires your immediate attention. Stains do not look good on anything.
Teach your spouse & children the important aspects of home cleanliness. Have them practice good hygiene & home manners. For example, do not have them bring food & eat in their rooms. It can mean one less item of unfinished food, dinner plates or food stain for you to handle. Cooperation from other people living in the same abode can make maintaining home cleanliness easier & simpler to manage.

Proper Etiquette at the Table

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 14:29:00 +0000

Have you ever looked at a formal dinner table and thought, Oh oh, which fork do I use? Which bread plate is mine? What do I do with my napkin? This article clears up the confusion, so you can display proper etiquette at the dining table.
Use the right fork for proper table manners
o First, locate your own place setting. It will be in the form of a square in front of you. Your bread plate is always on the left. Glasses are always on the right. How can you remember? Easy. The words Food and Left each have four letters. Drink and Right each have five letters.
o The utensils show the number of courses, and there is a maximum of three of any utensil at a time. Always pick up the utensils on the outside first. Then, just work your way in with each course.
o The spoon and fork above your plate are for dessert. Use the fork to eat your cake, and the spoon for ice cream or custard. Tip: A small cup of sorbet is often served to cleanse the palate between courses.
Proper napkin etiquette
o Place your napkin on your lap and use it frequently to wipe your fingers and dab your lips. If you leave the table during the meal, put your napkin on your chair. Never put a soiled napkin on the table until the end of the meal, where you place it, gently crumpled, to the left of your plate.
Table manners
o Don't eat bread or anything else at the table until everyone is seated.
o Don't reach across the table. The person closest to the bread basket begins by picking it up and offering it to the person on his left, then takes a roll, and passes the basket to the right.
o When you receive the bread basket, don't put it down. Keep passing it. It goes from left to right, just like reading a book. Put a dab of butter on your plate and pass it in the same way.
o Don't cut your roll in half, butter it and chomp into it. Instead, break off one bite-sized piece at a time, butter it and put it into your mouth.
o Sip your soup from the side of the spoon - silently. Don't blow on the soup to cool it. Move the spoon from the front to the back of the bowl. Rest your spoon in the soup plate, or on the saucer, wherever there is more room.
o Begin eating when everyone at your table is served. If three or more people at a large table are served, they can start eating so their meals won't get cold.
Bad manners to avoid
o Don't wrap your hands into fists around the knife and fork handles. Don't stab or saw your food.
o Cut one bite at a time and eat it. Don't cut all the food in your plate into little pieces.
o Never place cutlery that has been used, back on a clean tablecloth, or hang it off the plate like oars on a rowboat.
o Don't complain about the food. If there is something on your plate that you don't like, such as a vegetable or side dish, don't make a fuss about it. Eat a small portion, or just leave it on your plate.
Remember, having good table manners is about much more than using the right fork. But once you know your way around the table, you'll feel more relaxed, knowing that you are using proper table etiquette and good manners.

Giving Executive Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:32:00 +0000

In any situation, giving executive gifts should be guided accordingly. If you are planning to give executive gifts, make sure to keep your recipients in mind. It is sure that you have reasons why you need to give such gifts, but it is important to consider proper etiquette when giving. To name some, here is executive gift-giving etiquette you need to keep in mind:
* Consider your company gift-giving policy, as well as the company policy of your recipient. Be reminded that some companies set limitations when it comes to receiving gifts from other firms, including limited dollar-amount values. What you will need to do is to call your recipient's company and ask anyone who knows about their gifting policy.
* Make sure that your chosen gift won't look like a bribe. Be reasonable when selecting a gift so that there will be no bad impression. As much as possible, avoid large gifts as they often seen as bribe presents. This is also one good reason why you need to consult your recipient's company policy in case there are restrictions on the value of gifts they only accept.
* If you are planning to give your employer a gift, keep in mind that he/she may not expect something from you. Therefore, although less expensive, but baked goodies, bottle of wine, or flowers are more appropriate than other expensive choices.
* It would be more proper to hand over your gift to your co-worker, who may also be your friend, secretly or outside. This is one way to avoid awkwardness between you and other co-workers. Also, don't feel obliged to buy something expensive, or else your recipient will feel that he/she will also need to buy you an expensive gift in return.
* Monetary gift is always a big NO.
* Giving executive gifts to employees is a thoughtful idea, as long as it is a group gift. You can think of a group gift such as inviting them all to a holiday lunch or Christmas party. But if you really need to do a bit more effort to acknowledge an employee's performance, sending them a nice card would be appropriate
* Do not send a card to someone who happens to be the recipient of one of your gifts. It could only be one; either the card or the gift but not both.
These are some important things you need to keep in mind before giving executive gifts. For the recipients, they don't have to feel obliged to give one in return. Instead, they have to accept the gifts gracefully and thank the give either verbally or sending a thank you card. They have to be courteous even if the gift they received is not something that they really like.
You can easily find and purchase executive gifts and other business gifts online. There are plenty of websites that carry a wide selections of retirement gifts, client gifts, employee recognition gifts, promotional gifts and other items that would really make a good sense to corporate wold.

Wedding Gift Etiquette

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:26:00 +0000

Wedding etiquette can be a wonderful tool to help a bride and groom plan a wedding that is tasteful, thoughtful, and a pleasure for everyone. Unfortunately, there are also some people who spread misinformation about weddings, claiming that it is proper etiquette. For those who do not have the time to sit down and read Emily Post from cover to cover, take a moment to get the facts straight about these wedding gift etiquette myths.
You have a year to send a thank you note. This one just kills me! Think about it - do you really think that people want to spend the next year wondering if their package got lost in the mail or if you hated their gift so much you could not even write a note of appreciation? Thank you notes should always be sent out promptly; within two to three weeks is ideal. If you keep up with the notes as gifts arrive, it is not all that daunting a task. The origin of the myth, by the way, stems from the fact that etiquette allows a guest up to a year after the wedding to send out a gift.
It is not necessary to send notes for bridal shower gifts. Just because you thanked someone in person at your shower does not get you off the hook for dropping a proper thank you note in the mail to them after the event. To make the job easy, designate one person to take notes on which gift was from which guest. A simple note like "Aunt Edna - bridal jewelry) should be all that is needed to jog the bride's memory when she sits down to write her thank you notes for shower gifts. ("Dear Aunt Edna, Thank you so much for the beautiful bridal jewelry! I cannot wait to wear it on my wedding day...etc, etc")
Writing "No gifts" on the wedding invitations is thoughtful. While the intentions behind a "no gift" request are always thoughtful, it is actually considered to be in poor taste to make any mention of gifts on the wedding invitation. The reason is that it is implied that without the "no gifts" notation, your guests would have been obligated to provide a wedding gift, which technically, they are not. Of course, it is in even worse taste to include bridal registry details on or with the wedding invitation, because it makes it look like a gift is the price of admission to the event. Don't worry - anyone who is interested in purchasing from a bridal registry will ask where you are registered, and the information will get passed around by word of mouth.
Bridesmaids are obligated to throw a bridal shower. While it is certainly customary for one or more of the bridesmaids to decide to host a bridal shower in honor of their friend, it is never mandatory. The bride is never to ask her attendants when they will be having a shower for her! If they want to, they will, and if they do not want to or cannot afford to throw a shower, that is their prerogative. Besides, for all the bride knows, her friends could be conspiring to throw her a fabulous surprise shower, which would be ruined if the secret was revealed.
The cost of the wedding gift should be the same as the cost per head of the reception. First of all, who beyond immediate family even knows what the bride is paying the caterer per person? Second of all, wedding guests should give what they can afford and what they wish to give. A young couple paying their own way might have a very modest celebration in a church basement, but a generous relative might wish to give them a substantial gift for their new home. Conversely, the guest at a very lavish wedding might be living on a tighter budget than the hosts of the wedding. Under no circumstances would that person be obligated to spend beyond their means. A gift should be chosen with care that it will please the recipient, not based on some imaginary equation.

Gift Giving Etiquette

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:21:00 +0000

Everyone loves getting presents of course, but not all presents are created equal. This refers not to the cost of the gift, but to the appropriateness of the gift for the occasion. In particular, the relationship between the gift giver and the recipient should be foremost when shopping for the right present. Before you purchase your next holiday gifts, wedding gift, or birthday present, be sure to learn about the etiquette of gift giving.
What could be bad about giving a present? Well, when it is so inappropriate that it makes the recipient uncomfortable. One of the biggest etiquette blunders that people make is to give a present which does not reflect the relationship between the two parties. In particular, extreme care should be taken to avoid giving a gift which is too personal to a business associate. The boss who gives his secretary a bottle of romantic perfume (or heaven forbid, a sexy nightgown) for her holiday gifts is sending the entirely wrong message, even if his intentions are purely innocent. Office gifts should be thoughtful, but never intimate.
The other way in which business-related presents should reflect the relationship between people is in value; a boss should give a more costly gift to an employee, while the employee should give more modest gifts in return. There are several reasons for this. For one thing, the boss who gives a nice gift not only says "Happy Birthday" or "Merry Christmas", but shows their employee that he or she is valued. On the other hand, an employee who showers his or her boss with lavish gifts may be seen as trying to suck up or curry favor. Not only that, but the supervisor may start to wonder if he is paying you too well!
By the same token, a husband who gives his wife a new day planner for her birthday may find his wife upset to receive such a business-like gift, as it is not personal enough. A gift between intimates should show above all that the donor knows the recipient well, and has taken pains to listen to what he or she would like. Presents which are related to the other person's favorite hobbies or interests are always good, as they show that you care about what they are into. Romantic gifts from a husband to a wife, such as gifts of jewelry, perfume, cashmere sweaters or other luxury goods are always a great idea. That sort of gift shows a woman that she is cherished.
Weddings are a big gift-giving occasion, and there are some special rules of etiquette surrounding them. First of all, receiving a wedding invitation does not obligate a person to give a wedding present, although most people who care enough to actually attend the wedding will want to give something to the bride and groom. Traditionally, etiquette states that guests have up to a year to give a wedding gift, although practically speaking, it is better to send it off closer to the event than that. By the way, the bride and groom do not have a year to send out thank you notes, as some people incorrectly believe. Notes of appreciation should go out promptly (within a few weeks at the most).
Then there is the value of the wedding gift. Some people go by the rule of thumb that the wedding present should cost about as much as the price per head for the reception dinner. That is a slightly bizarre notion; first of all, how does anyone even know what the reception cost? A better idea is to base the wedding gift on how close you are to the bride and groom, and your budget. A small thoughtful gift will be more appreciated than a costly one which shows no knowledge of the couple's life or interests. (Can't you just hear the bride saying, "Why on earth did he send us this three foot tall ceramic dog sculpture and do you think we can exchange it?".) Anyone who is unsure what the bride and groom would enjoy can feel free to shop from the registry; however another rule of etiquette is that the couple cannot demand that guests purchase gifts only from their pre-approved wish list. With a little thought, every gift given and received can be a pleasure for both parties.

Facebook Manners - Proper Facebook Etiquette For Your Business

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:44:00 +0000

Facebook has become a universal fetish for teens, college students, moms, dads, business people, musicians, artists, baby boomers, grandmas and grandpas...there is no limit to the reach of Facebook. Frightening?

Naaaahhh...but one must realize that this social movement requires you to learn some Face book manners! (especially if you're looking to do any marketing on Face book or if you're trying to make money with Face book).

So what's this "Face book Etiquette" thing all about? Well, it might be easier to start by talking about what NOT to do on Face book so you can avoid getting labeled as a "spammer" or as so many people call them today an "idiot marketer". To remain in what many "Facebookers" would call appropriate Face book marketing etiquette, DO NOT:

1) DO NOT: Post on your wall 5, 10, 20 or 50 times a day about whatever it is you're trying to market. This is the worst thing you can do and you'll only have people on Facebook "un-friending " you if you keep this crap up.

2) DO NOT: Send out your friend request with a link to your business or site...Think about it...Facebook is about relationships and you're already labeling yourself as the sleazy salesman/saleswoman...no one wants to be friends with people who are just looking to take your money.

3) DO NOT: Spam people's inboxes with whatever it is you think is "soooo" great or "soooo" important. Just because you enjoy what you're doing, doesn't mean everyone else on Facebook wants to do it. Oh, and definitely don't send these spammy emails everyday! We can't stand you people! This is the fastest way to get black balled in the Facebook community.

If you're getting hit with hard with marketing messages by people that you've met on Facebook, do these people a favor...

TELL THEM TO STOP! You don't have to put up with bad Facebook Marketers and poor Facebook Etiquette. What I suggest, you tell people is..."Hey, we just met. You're coming on a little heavy with the marketing. I'm here on Facebook to create relationships and to meet people. Slow down."

Think of it in the "dating" context. You're not going to go out on a date with a hot chick or a hot guy and try to get to third base on the first date (unless your goal is to get slapped and walked out on). If you just met someone you have to talk to them, ask questions, share info about your likes and dislikes...you can see where I'm going with this. The same rules apply in the world of Facebook. Don't try and hit one out of the park when you just meet someone. Take the time to create a relationship and get to know people. This takes a little bit of work, but it will pay off. By creating healthy, "real" relationships you will be able to share ideas, network, and find the right people to buy into what it is you have to offer.

That's it. Pretty simple. Just stay away from the "short cuts" and easy temptation to just blast out your marketing to every kid, mom, grandpa, business person, and everyone else you meet on Facebook. Do it the right way and have some Facebook Manners!

Facebook Etiquette for Business

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 11:36:00 +0000

Your personal Face book and Face book business pages should remain separate, with no crossover. There are different etiquette standards for each. Of course, there will be times when you have a Face book friend who is also a Face book fan.

Many business owners (the same business owners who initially only considered Face book to be a social media site that they forbid their employees from using during work hours) have discovered its potential for extremely effective selling and business relationship building.

Your content in the two different types of Face book accounts should be different and the communications that you have with that person should be different as your fan than as your friend.

Should you build your social media marketing campaign through your personal Face book or your Face book business page? When it comes to social media, there is a great deal of subjectivity; however, some of the options will be presented to you here so that you can make an intelligent and informed decision when it comes to social media and what is most appropriate for your particular business.

The benefits of a Face book business page

If you publish content on your Face book business page, you have a good chance that it will be included in search engine results, which may, in turn, strengthen your chances of good search engine optimization (SEO).

Face book Insights (analytic) allows you to measure and monitor your effectiveness on Face book. For example, if you notice that your postings are being hidden from the news feeds of one of your fans, your content is not effective.

If a person wants to become your fan on a Face book business page, he or she does not have to display his or her personal profile to be able to connect with your business. This eliminates the privacy concerns that many people have.

There are many things that you should do when you have a Face book business page to generate more business. There are also things that you should not do when you have a professional page because it isn't polite and will not produce any positive results.

Dos

Promote your upcoming events: If you are holding an event (in a physical location), make sure that you let your Face book professional connections know about it. Give them as many details as possible so that they will want to attend the event. Chances are very good that if your professional connections are able to attend your event, they are local people. They may encourage some of their business connections to come along also. The more attendance your event gets, the better it is for your business. You have a great chance of continuing the relationships with those business connections if you have been able to interact with them at your event first. You will see that they will keep coming back to you to do business.

Offer online coupons: A good way to entice people to buy what you are selling is to post "online only" coupons on your wall for your products. The coupons should offer some appealing discount or bonus offer and the incentive will be that anyone who orders from your business's Face book page will be able to take advantage of the promotion. This will go a long way toward turning regular customers into loyal customers. You are expressing gratitude toward them for going above and beyond when it comes to following you. The strategy will strengthen the bond in your relationship.

Product research: The customers who target your business and become your fan on Face book are probably much more interested in your business than average customers. Those people will be more than happy to provide you with feedback for your business that is valuable for your business. If you are thinking about either improving your existing products or investing in new products, you should think about sending a survey to your most dedicated fans to learn their opinions about it. This will give you very valuable insight into what your customers are thinking and what they would like your business to offer and it will also clearly communicate to them that their opinions, feelings and ideas are valued by you and your business.

Don'ts

There are certain etiquette rules that you must follow no matter which type of page you choose.

Don't post on your wall numerous times a day: No matter what you are trying to market, don't post numerous times on your wall. This will definitely annoy people more than intrigue them.

Friend requests and then some: You shouldn't send out a friend request accompanied by information on your business. You should always keep your personal connections and your business connections separate.

Don't ignore your fans: It is essential that people feel that you and your business are approachable and that feedback is welcomed and will be taken seriously. However, you need to be discriminating when it comes to responding to feedback. There is definitely a balance that you need to achieve when it comes to feedback response. You don't want to ignore all of the comments that you receive. If you do that, before very long, people will stop paying attention to you and your business. You should consider which comments will help you to strengthen your reputation and exposure as a business owner and share your thoughts with others by responding to those comments. Your responses to feedback will generate content on your website (through discussions) and other people will respond to you. The more discussions occur, the more content will be generated and the more people will pay attention to you and your business.

Using a personal Face book account for business

Some people see advantages in using a personal Face book account for business. Here are some of the advantages:

You and your business will appear in people's "Friend" lists instead of on the info tab under "Likes and interests." This can potentially give you more opportunities to do business.

The personal Face book account makes you appear more human and less business like. There are many people who will find this extremely appealing and will be more inclined to interact with you.

Conclusion

Whether you are more comfortable interacting through your personal Face book account or your Face book business page, it is very important to follow the appropriate rules of etiquette. You should state, up front, what your intentions are when you approach someone about connecting with them. In this world of social media, it doesn't take a very long time or a great deal of effort for people to get annoyed by your interacting with them if you do it too frequently or too aggressively. You need to make sure that you are always sensitive to other people and that you are providing them with helpful and informative information that gives them exactly what they need and want in the quantity that is good and comfortable for them.

Facebook and Social Media Etiquette Rules

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 10:54:00 +0000

With the speed of all social media communications, the messages, replies and TMI (too much information)...this really needs to addressed for the utmost professionalism. If you are a professional or propose to be one then you need to read this. If you are already abiding the rules then fantastic! But what I have found is that many people do not know or understand Facebook or social media Etiquette.

On your professional page please post a professional looking picture of yourself. Many of the people who know you would love to see your face. We don't want to see some weird object that didn't crop correctly and we are viewing only half of it.
Keep it professional. Do not add that you "like" enjoying having sex in unusual places and you don't care what your boss thinks button! I don't think we need to elaborate more?? Do we?
Should you really friend everyone? The reason I address this one is because I really do look at who you are friends with. I can imagine many of your potential customers will too. Do just click "ok" every time? Check them out.
We don't need to know that your boyfriend cheated on you with so and so, this is professional remember? Besides you'll probably get back together with him anyway and who wants to explain to him what you wrote?
Be polite... Don't be condescending or crass while commenting on some else's page.. Save that for a direct message if you don't agree with them! And after you posted it..re-read it if it does sound condescending you can "delete it". On the other hand if someone posts on your page a crass comment that has nothing to do with what you are talking about... You can "DELETE" the comment. This is your page and YOU do have the right to have it look they way you want it.
On safety concerns: Please don't tell everyone that you are on vacation, send photos via iphone while you are on vacation. You don't want thieves robbing you while your gone. Because all though you were smart enough to not put your address on your Facebook page. They can probably find it somewhere else on the net.
If you have sent out a friend request to someone and they have not confirmed you as a friend don't be offended. They may have missed or accidentally cancelled the request (yes, it does happen!). But by all means don't stalk them either. Send 2 requests... ONLY 2. Otherwise you may come off as a stalker.
Don't write in all "caps" or use the "!" to many times, it comes off to the reader as you are yelling at them.
Don't create a "Facebook" page for your baby or your pet. There is an age limit....it's "13". Besides they cannot write anyway.
Don't ask for comments on your new item or photo, it's just tacky. You can however post them and hope for people to comment.
You can delete "friends" (I use that term lightly) without them knowing, If you have not talked to them is years or if they've moved and you know longer keep in touch. It's ok to "delete" them.
And lastly.. If you plan on having a party, do un-check the box that states anyone can view the event and RSVP. Otherwise you may have to explain to the 21,000 or so other Facebook people that you live in an 900 sq ft apartment and your parents only allowed you 13 friends over for your "15"th birthday party!

Facebook Etiquette

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 10:50:00 +0000

As businesses increase their use of social media to attract new customers to their products and services, Face book can be a valuable tool for attracting your ideal client.

According to HubSpot Blog:

"Face book has over 200 million active users and that number continues to grow steadily. It is the third most trafficked website in the world (behind Google and Yahoo) and the most trafficked social media site in the world. As early as July 2007, Face book started calling itself one of the top people/social search engines on the web, though some disagree."

Don't make these Face book faux-pas - they might cost you a great opportunity.

Introductions: When joining any online groups or attending networking events, make sure to introduce yourself to the host of the event. It is proper to let the host know that you are appreciative of them taking the time to put this event together. You will put yourself in a higher category than those who just attend and lurk in the corners.

Speak to everyone: While it is natural to want to make your presence known to the movers and shakers in the room, it is also good to speak and mingle with the average "Joe/Jane" in the room, you never know who knows whom. But most importantly, it is just common courtesy to speak to everybody.

Share but don't Sell: Relax. When people can see that they can relate to you, oftentimes it will lead to a conversation about what you do. Be sure to also add value to your networks. Answer questions; leave encouraging comments- anything to build up others is a plus.

Be genuine: Be nice: This may seem like a given, but you would be surprised how many people check their manners at the door, especially online. Remember to say "please" and "thank you." First impressions are lasting impressions.

Give before you take: Share useful articles and links to presentation and valuable resources that interest customers and prospects on your wall, to establish credibility.

Follow up: Be sure to make some kind of contact with the persons you've met at the event. Politely remind them how you met, comment on what you enjoyed about the interaction and see how you can be of help to them in the future. Also, if someone has made a comment about a blog, post or tweet you sent out, be sure to acknowledge them. You are letting them know that you are paying attention and you care about what they have to say.

Respect others: The best way to do this is to treat others as you would want to be treated.

Following these simple yet important etiquette tips are sure to lead you on a smooth path to making great social and business connections.

How to Teach Table Manners

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:20:00 +0000

Why are manners important?
Your children use their social skills in all aspects of their lives, from the playground to the classroom, to the workplace. The success of these relationships depend, to a large extent, on their social skills. By teaching your children good manners, you are actually helping your child develop strategies for being successful in their relationships!

What are social skills but the skills that enable us to interact easily with other people? And what are manners but behaviors that make other people feel comfortable and appreciated? A child with good manners is a child who knows how to treat other people well and is, therefore, much more likable as a result.

We are not born with good manners. Our children need to be shown over and over how to behave in situations. The table is a good place to start teaching children these skills. Table manners teaches your children courtesy towards other people. In addition, table manners allow children to feel confident, whether they are eating at a friend's place or at a restaurant. Even though your children may be kind and smart, other people will judge them on how they behave. Help them make a good impression by teaching these basic skills.

Ways to teach table manners
1. Set a good example. Children learn a lot by watching you so show courtesy to others. Say 'thank you' and 'please'; don't reach across the table for the water, ask someone to pass it to you.
2. Keep it simple. Aim to master one or two manners at a time before adding a new skill or situation to master.
3. Rehearse. Have special dress-up family dinners on a regular basis with good dinnerware, tablecloth and napkins. Invite friends or relatives and ask everyone to make a point of being on their best behavior. Make it fun!
4. Use a reward system. What about a jellybean jar for each child, and adding a jellybean for each polite behavior observed at the table. Allow them to eat some for dessert. For people who don't want to encourage eating sweets, use some other form of reward system.
5. Have 'What if' scenarios. 'What would you do if you drop your spoon on the floor?' 'What would you do if you hate the dinner someone served?'
6. Praise efforts. Recognize and praise your children efforts.
7. Print the rules. Make or buy place mats with table manners printed on them. Get the kids involved in making and decorating the place mats. Have a fun quiz over dinner to see who remembers the most rules.

So where do you start?

Talk to your kids about these basic rules and explain why they should do it. For example, table manners are about showing consideration for the other people around the table and not doing anything that would turn them off their food.

1. Eat with cutlery unless the food is meant to be eaten with fingers.

2. Don't put too much food in your mouth.

3. Chew with your mouth closed.

4. Don't talk with lots of food in your mouth.

5. Keep your elbows close to your sides.

6. Don't say anything bad about the meal even if you didn't like it.

7. Always say 'thank you' when served something.

8. Wait until mom or the host starts eating before you start eating.

9. Don't use a knife to put food in your mouth. Use a spoon or fork.

10. Keep your elbows off the table.

11. Don't reach over the table for something. Politely ask for it to be passed to you.

12. Do not pick anything out of your teeth. If it bothers you, ask to be excused and go to the bathroom to

get it out.

13. Napkins should always be on your lap. It is there to dab your face if you get a bit of sauce, etc, on it.

14. When eating at someone's home, always thank the host for the meal. Even if you didn't like it,

someone took a lot of time to prepare it so show appreciation.

15. Always ask 'May I be excused?' or 'May I go?' before leaving the table.

Teaching your children table manners is an important social skill they can use throughout their lives. Once mastered, it won't be forgotten - rather like riding a bike. And it only takes a few minutes a day, or a couple of nights a week.

Tips to Teach Your Children Table Manners

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:19:00 +0000

Table manners now becomes an important thing since sometimes there must be invitation for you to go out for formal breakfast, lunch, dinner, or any other formal occasion. Actually, table manners are not only important for adults, but it is also important for your children. For that reason, you need to teach your children about this. Here are some tips for you to consider when you have to take them to formal occasion.

We all know that most of children are still innocent. They maybe do not know and understand if sometime they are doing something wrong or even can make you embarrassing. Just like what happen at the eating time. It is possible for children to throw foods, spill drinks, or yell across the dinner table. This is just because they have not understood yet about table manners. Thus, this is the duty of parents to teach them about it.

The first best way to teach your children is by practicing a good attitude while you are having meal. Show them how to properly eat on the table. Since children mostly follow what their parents do, showing them example of a good manners while eating will give good impact for them.

Furthermore, you can start to teach them by washing hands before they start to eat. Instead of showing a good manners, this can also give your children care of health. Since children love to play everywhere, it is possible for them to take dirt thing that contains certain bacteria or germ.

Moreover, you need to teach them of saying politely while eating. Show them how to ask help in polite way when they want to take food that is far from them. Besides, you also have to teach them how to excuse when they have to leave the table earlier. Finally, do not forget to give them praise and reward for your children when they can show a good table manners. Giving praise and reward for them will potentially make them to continue this good behavior.

Teaching Kids Table Manners

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:14:00 +0000

Kids' table manners seem to be in short supply, at least with the kids I have seen at school, parties and restaurants. I have made it clear to my kids that table manners are important, make dining more pleasant for everyone, and increase their chances of being invited back again.

Here are a few ideas and important table manners that are good to instill in our children.

Sit upright with good posture.
Keep chair legs on the floor.
Place your napkin on your lap and make sure to use it.
Wait until everyone has been served before eating.
Pass condiments, salt and pepper around the table as opposed to across it.
Ask someone to pass you an item instead of reaching over them.
Remember to say "Thank you" when something is passed to you.
Say "No thank you" politely if you are offered something you don't like.
Do not take huge portions.
Don't stuff food into your mouth.
Don't talk with food in your mouth.
Keep you arms and elbows off the table. You may rest the on the table after the meal is over and dishes have been removed.
Don't pick your teeth at the table. If there is food stuck between your teeth, discreetly remove it.
Ask to be excused before leaving the table.

As a parent, it is wonderful to get positive feedback on how well behaved your children are. Good manners should become second nature to your kids and will serve them well later in life when they go to important functions, dinner meetings or dates.

Beauty Salon Tipping - Etiquette Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:09:00 +0000

When you find yourself in a beauty salon there can seem to be an overwhelming amount of people to tip that it can be a bit confusing. Provided here is a quick breakdown of whom you should tip and how much you should tip them.

As an example let's say you spend about $20 for your haircut. You should first tip the stylist, the one who did the actual cutting and combing $4 if they delighted you with the results, $3 if you're not jumping for joy but are still looking good. You should give their assistant a tip, which depends entirely on how attentive they were. The person who did the shampooing for you should get a dollar, and if there's a coatroom attendant they should also get a dollar.

If you went in for a perm or a hair color change you should not tip less than $5 regardless. You should tip a bit more if you are thrilled with the work done. The general guideline for a beauty parlor is 15-20% for any service provided.

It doesn't matter if you visit the salon only once or twice a year of if you go there weekly, you should tip consistently. You shouldn't pay less only because you don't visit very much. Especially if they are giving you consistent quality work you should tip accordingly.

To do it the most courteous way you should personally give the tips yourself. This is especially true to those people that have put in the most time with you. The beauty salon staff usually gives a personal service - think about it, it's your body they are working on - and since they will usually chat you up while they work they become privy to your more intimate details if you divulge them. If you go to a busy salon and there are a good number of people to tip out, many places will have an envelope at the desk for that exact purpose. If they know you because you go there often you should personally thank each stylist and simply leave the other tips at the front desk.

One exception, if the owner of the shop was the one that did your hair cut they should not receive a tip. Many times the owner will charge more for the cut taking away the necessity of a tip, although on your way out you should offer a thank you. If you didn't realize that it was the owner that was doing the job and you do offer a tip they will probably decline it. In this case don't keep pushing it, a smile and your thanks will suffice.

If the results are making you miserable you shouldn't withhold your tips as a way to send a message. What you should do is complain to the manager about the service you received and still tip the minimum. The people that work in a salon depend on tips and the manager is the one who is ultimately responsible for the work that is done in their salon.l If they did their best trying to satisfy your request you should still give them something. They should also try their best to try and fix it or repair the damage.

Tipping Etiquette - How to Say Thank You This Holiday Season

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:04:00 +0000

Tipping etiquette: who do you tip and how much? In the holiday gift-giving season, it's time to dig a little deeper and show appreciation for all the services providers who have helped us during the year.

Tipping at this time of year can be stressful. From the waitress at your favorite restaurant, to the babysitter who saves your sanity, to your hairdresser who makes you feel like a million bucks, how much is enough, and how much is too much?

Tipping etiquette guidelines for the gift-giving season:

o Most people dig a little deeper and boost tips show appreciation at the holiday season. Whatever you give, the intent is thank people who took care of you over the past year.

o Most people use the same criteria for increasing tips: to nurture important relationships and/or to reward excellent service.

o Tipping depends on your budget, regional customs, and where you live. For example, if you live in a high rise in a large city, you might focus more on the attendants in your high rise apartment building, while if you live in a smaller city or town, you would be more concerned with your babysitter and hair stylists.

o Some people offer cash tips or checks. Other people show appreciation by giving a bottle of liquor, baking cookies, or finding a gift that's meaningful to the receiver. Base your tip on what's appropriate to your situation and your budget.

o Different professions usually receive different tips at the holidays. For example, bellmen at hotels and apartment buildings, bartenders, food-service professionals generally get cash tips. People that give more personal services, such as hair stylists or babysitters, can receive either cash or gifts during the holidays.

Here are some guidelines for tipping:

Baby sitter: 1 evening's pay + small gift from the child

Daycare providers; $25=$50 each + small gift from child

Housekeeper: 1 week's pay or more, depending on length of service

Hairdresser: Cost of 1 cut (or $20-$100) - depending on cost of cuts and frequency

Manicurist: Cost of 1 session (or $10-$20) or small gift

Personal trainer: $25 up to 1 week's pay

Letter carrier: Gifts of up to $20

Newspaper carrier: Up to $20

Hotel doorman/bellman: $1-2 for help with bags, hailing cabs

You are invited to use these guidelines for tipping in the holiday season.

Tipping and Etiquette in the United States

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 05:01:00 +0000

Restaurants with table service: In the U.S., tips are expected in restaurants. As a general rule of thumb, people tip based on the quality of service. A 15% tip is standard. If you receive exceptional service, it is customary to it between 15-20%. For large parties of 6 or more, it is common for the restaurant to automatically add 15-18% to the bill. If you're with a large party, be sure to check your bill for "gratuity" to see if it was already included. If you received exceptional service, you can request to add more to the gratuity. And, of course, if you did not receive adequate service, you should inform the management before paying your bill and have the gratuity adjusted.

In most states, a meals tax is applied to the bill and is clearly indicated as such on the bill or check. In those states where the meals tax is 5% (Massachusetts as an example) or 6% it is simple to calculate by rounding the tax up or down to the nearest dollar and then multiplying by three.

Buffet restaurants: At buffet restaurants with limited table service, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is still recommended because the servers typically work harder keeping the buffet line stocked and clean. As a rule of thumb, the minimum tip should be $1 per person. As always, if you feel you have not been well-served, adjust the gratuity down, or add to the gratuity for exceptional service.

Fast food or counter service: Restaurants often leave tip jars on the counters, but you are not required to tip. If the service is exemplary or unusual requests are made, then they are expected.

Hotels

Housekeeping and maid service: For hotel housekeeping and maid service, it is customary to tip $2-3 per night. It is customary to tip up to $5 in high-end hotels, or f there are more than 3 people in a room or suite. Leave them on your pillow with a note that says "thank you" so housekeeping knows the money is intended for them. If you have additional items delivered to your room, such as extra pillows, hangers, luggage racks, tip the person who brings them $2 or $3.

Concierge: If you inquire with the concierge about directions or restaurant reservations, tipping is not expected. However, for any special individual or unusual service, a tip is appreciated.

In-suite dining waiter: Always read the bill, if there is one included, it will be on the bill breakdown. Inquire with the server if you're not sure. It is no longer the norm for the hotel to add the gratuity to the bill. Any "service charge" or "convenience fee" goes to the hotel, not the server. If there is no gratuity added, tip the server 15-18%.

Bellman/porter: If the bellman or porter takes your luggage to your hotel room, it is customary to tip $1-2 per bag.

Taxi driver: It is customary to tip between 10-15% of the taxi fare, based on service.

Hotel limo driver: If your ride from the airport was "free," it is customary to tip the limo driver between $10-20.

Drink server: While in a casino or bar, it is customary to tip the drink server $1-2 per drink. Some tip $5 for the first drink to make sure the waitress "remembers" them and returns often.

Valet Parkers: For valet parking, it is customary to tip $2-5 when they pick up your car.

Casinos

Casino dealers: While seated at a table game in a casino, it is customary to tip the dealer 5% of bet amount at end of session, or occasionally bet for dealer in amount of your normal wager (the dealer can show you where to place bet).

Slot machines host: If they make a hand payout (over $1,000), slot machine hosts are generally paid between $10-20.

Drink server: While in a casino or bar, it is customary to tip the drink server $1-2 per drink. Some tip $5 for the first drink to make sure the waitress "remembers" them and returns often.

Spas

Massage therapist: For a massage or other treatment, it is customary to tip between 10-20%. Some spas will include a gratuity on your final bill, so be sure to ask if it was included. Most spas will provide you with an envelope to leave at the reception desk for the person who gave you your treatment. Also, if you wish to leave a small gratuity of $2-5 for the spa attendant who showed you around the spa and got you situated, it is well appreciated.

Hairdresser or manicurist: For a hairdresser, manicurist, or like service, it is customary to tip between 10-20%.

Craps Table Etiquette

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 04:56:00 +0000

Believe it or not while you may hear all of the hollering and yelling at the craps table, there are certain unwritten rules of etiquette that are expected to be followed. The first rule is to be courteous to dealers, casino staff and other players. Casinos do their best to promote the image of playing craps as being exciting and fun, but sometimes a player who has had too much to drink may take the party atmosphere too seriously and be just too wild.

When you first walk up to the table wait to buy your chips until the shooter is done shooting or until the dealer asks if you want to "buy-in." Always place your cash on the table and NEVER try to hand it to the dealer. The dealer is not allowed to take money directly from any player and vice versa. All transactions must be on the felt layout so that the infamous eye in the sky can ensure there is no funny business going on between a dealer and the player. Once you put your cash on the table tell the dealer "change only please." Otherwise, it may be considered a bet.

The dealer will then take your money and lay it out so that the box person can see how much it is and then the dealer will place you chips either in front of you or on the Come area of the layout. The box person will then put your cash in the cash box through a hole in the table. It is kind of the casinos way of telling you to say "bye-bye" to your money. They will use a lot of psychological tricks to keep your cash.

Once the dealer places your chips in front of you it is your responsibility to pick-up your chips and place them in the chip rack. If you do not remove your chips from the table, it may be considered a bet. Don't worry about hurrying to remove your chips from the table too much because the dealers will give you plenty of time to pick up your chips from the layout. The stickperson will keep the dice in the middle of the table until the dealers are finished paying the winning bets, collecting the losing bets or making change for new players (and for people who need to reach into their pockets to buy more chips).

Always, always, always keep your hands above the chip rack (above the rail). Do not let your hands or fingers hang over the edge of the table. Many players are superstitious and believe that if the dice accidentally hit your hand or fingers that it will cause a 7 to appear. It is bad luck to let the dice hit another person's hands or fingers. This is why you will see other players getting very upset if someone is reaching in at the last moment to make a bet.

When you are the shooter, use only one hand to hold the dice. Do not rub the dice with both hands. The casinos do not allow players to rub the dice with both hands because it grinds the edges. Using one hand to control the dice also helps to assure the table crew that you are not trying to switch dice or that you are not a dice mechanic (a player who replaces the official casino dice with crooked dice).

Do not spend an excessive amount of time setting the dice or going through any lengthy routine. The other players and dealers will expect a person to roll the dice within 3 to 4 seconds of receiving them from the stick person.

Always be nice to the dealers. Always toke the dealers. If the dealers are rude or not courteous to you, you have the option to leave the table or the casino. For the most part the dealers are nice and will help you - - so long as you treat them fairly. I routinely toke the dealers after a win and generally ask them where they want to place their tokes as a bet. The dealers appreciate this gesture because it allows them to "get into" the game and if they win on there bet, your $1 or $2 could be as much as $10 or more. Contrary to popular belief, the dealers are paid mostly from tips.

It is considered bad luck to mention the word "seven" during a roll. It is also generally considered rude to ask to "color out" or to "color up" in the middle of a shooter's roll.

Be polite to the cocktail waitress. If you request a beverage (if you are playing it better be non-alcoholic), toke her a $1 chip. The cocktail waitress earns most of her money on tips.

Simply stated, be courteous and respectful, avoid behavior that is rude, pushy or belligerent. Do not attempt to force your way into a crowded table. If there isn't room on the rail for you to place your chips in a separate section, you should not be there. Especially do not attempt to push your way into a hot table next to the shooter.

If you are only watching a companion, friend or partner and are not betting, and have no intention of making a bet, do not stand at the rail. Leave the space for another player who does want to get in on the action.

Simple Eating Etiquette Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 09:59:00 +0000

As long as your are at home alone, you can eat like an animal, if that's your desire. Just go ahead, gulp your food, chew with your mouth open, lick your fingers, and drink from the milk carton. No one will ever know this truth about you. But when you eat in the presence of others, it is entirely another matter. I'm sure that most of the time, you know what to do, but sometimes you may have doubts, and not be so sure.

Let's just say for example, you have just been served a plate of fried chicken. Do you sit there a while, not knowing exactly what to do? Do you eat it with your hands like you would at home, or do you tackle it with a knife and fork?

One sure way of being correct for a particular moment, is to watch your host or hostess. If he or she picks up a drumstick or a chop, then follow suit and do the same. If however, your host is using a fork and knife, then you should also do so.

Some foods are perfectly acceptable to eat with your hands: chicken (at a picnic or barbecue), pizza, fajitas, french fries, asparagus, artichokes, and corn on the cob (eat small increments, not straight across like a typewriter).

How you actually eat the food is only a small portion of good table etiquette. We will try not to bore you with too many do's and don'ts, but a few good table manners never hurt anyone. We will share a few general guidelines that will help you survive any occasion.

Always wait for your host to tell you to sit down before seating yourself. Put your napkin on your lap. Keep it there until you are excused from the table. Fold your napkin loosely and lay it on the table to the left of your plate. If you need to leave the table during the meal, for any reason, leave your napkin on your seat, or the back of your chair, where others will not have to look at it.

Use your flatware from the outside in. Take small bites and serve yourself small portions. Taking small portions always ensures others of having plenty, as well as enabling you to get seconds, which generally are considered a compliment to your host.

While there are many more rules of etiquette, the ones above will carry you through most any meal. Gaining confidence in your table manners will ensure that you have an enjoyable stress free meal.

Wedding Invitation Address Etiquette

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 09:55:00 +0000

When it comes to sending out the wedding invitations, there seems to be a rule of etiquette for everything. Address etiquette for a wedding invitation is no different. Listed below are four simple rules that ensure wedding invitation address etiquette is followed. Do Not Use Abbreviations

Formal etiquette for wedding invitation addresses follows the old standard postal code when modernization was not the normal way of life. Here are a few simple tips to help guide you through addressing of wedding invitations:

Do not abbreviate anything. Use of "street" or "avenue" instead of their abbreviated versions is an old postal regulation that, while no longer required, is still used for formal invitations
Handwrite all addresses onto the invitation envelopes. This is another idea from the past which survives today to show careful thought and planning as to who is sharing in the wedding.
Clearly write numbers so that they are legible.
Place the return address on the back of the outer card. This is another old postal style that has survived for use with invitations.

Always Confirm the Postal Code and Address

If possible, contact the person you are sending the invitation to so that you may confirm their street address and zip code. While it is becoming acceptable to send invitations through email or telephone, many people still feel proper etiquette is to address wedding invitations to a land address.

Always Include a Return Land Address

This is another simple etiquette for wedding invitation addresses. If you send out invitations via email, you will want to include a reply address for people who are not comfortable with email or their computer skills

Allow Time for the Mail

Allowing your guests time to plan and respond is a major etiquette for wedding invitations. Address mailing pieces and get them out at least six weeks before the date of the wedding. Eight weeks is a more acceptable time frame since guests may be coming from some distance away or may need to request time off well ahead of the day.

Following these four simple rules for wedding address invitation etiquette will help ensure that all of the proper etiquette for wedding invitations is followed. Also, with the use of these four rules of address etiquette, a wedding invitation is sure to reach guests in time thereby allowing for you to properly plan the space and other requirements for a comfortable and enjoyable reception.

Dating Etiquette Tips For the First Date

noreply@blogger.com (Sobia) — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 09:53:00 +0000

Alright, you have managed to get a date, so now everything is easy right? Wrong, far from it, there are few things that need sorting out before you meet your date for the first time. Before you meet your date, many thoughts are going through your mind. your physiology reflects your uneasiness, your hands are shaking, your hair refuses to comply. Elated you got a date yet nervous, happy yet not sure why it does not feel like you are. That's what some refer to as the dating game, you only get better at it when you do it more often, there are few things one can do to get over these for good and I will share them with you in another article, but for now let's get this over with.

Look your greatest:

Those who tell you that looks aren't everything are your friends and family and of course they are lying to you, the truth is be it you are a man or a woman, looks matters because it sets the grounds for a great first impressions. So, to get in the dating game you have got to scrub up a bit if you are not doing so already. Why? You might ask, my date should accept me as I am!!! Well, not taking care of your appearance sends the wrong messages such as - you don't really care about your date since you didn't make an effort-, another example of a wrong message: -if you cannot take care of yourself how on earth are you going to take care of your date???- And many more... Looking after your appearance also increases your self confidence and while you are in that date you don't have to think if your hair looks nice or shirt tucked in... Because your main focus should be on your date and nothing else.

This will bring us nicely to the next tip;

Confidence:

As the saying goes:"Confidence is Man's or Woman's best friend" Both men and women are attracted to confidence, confidence is sexy. It is important that you acquire some confidence. Please note that there is a huge difference between a confident person and a jerk or cocky person. What I mean by being confident is to be confident being you and all that includes.

Smile:

I hope smiling is natural to you, if not practice in front of the mirror until you get right and becomes a genuine smile without looking like a lunatic. Why? Well, a genuine smile comes from confidence and we have talked about confidence before that is sexy, a smile can help you get the second date and smiling is attractive like confidence again and it helps people be at ease with you.

Manners:

Dare I say be polite and use your manners? This I hope should be a second nature to you. Nothing will make your date run as if they have wheels in their heels than someone who is rude and/or obnoxious, so it's to your advantage to be polite as much as possible.

Sparking a conversation:

If you can make your date laugh, engage in the conversation, interested and enjoy themselves, you are doing well and congratulate yourself for scoring extra points in the dating game and consequently you have almost secured a second date if that's what you want. You can ask some questions of your date without getting too personal. Share those funny stories of yours but don't talk about yourself too much, give room to your date to talk too. Avoid awkward silences by going with the flow of the conversation and if one ends use a hook from it to the next conversation.

Those are some of the tips that will help you play by the rules in the dating game and may even get you a few more dates after that, remember, practice practice practice.