Your Essential Guide to Corporate Image and Etiquette

Summary of workshop content and approach

This intensive, practical 1-day workshop will help you market yourself professionally, ensuring your personal accomplishment and the success of your business.

Course Outline

The power of image

Understanding the psychological processes by which people judge others
Identifying your company's image and requirements in their market
Creating industry and client profiles to determine what people expect from you
Using what you know to enhance your professional image in every situation

Dressing for success

Identifying the style of dress best suited to each client and occasion
Taking a closer look at dress codes
Learning to distinguish good from bad fabric and understanding how this impacts your image
Dressing to flatter your figure
Creating a stylish, professional wardrobe without ruining your budget

Mastering modern business etiquette

First impressions last - which is why it is essential that you get it right from the start.

Using the correct forms of greeting and handshake in the right situation
Making introductions correctly
Exchanging business cards: how and when

Conducting yourself in the close quarters of an office and, in particular, a boardroom may look simpler than it is.

Determining the correct seating arrangements for large and small groups
Recognising the key decision makers in the group
Managing the agenda to ensure that all topics are covered in the shortest possible time
Presenting your ideas with impact and actively listening to those of others
Dealing with conflict to ensure that differences in opinion add to the discussion
Reading and managing body language to your own benefit

As many business deals are concluded in the 'social' environment of business lunches and other business entertainment events, it is essential to extend your professionalism to this arena.

Drawing up your guest list and correctly inviting your business guests
Learning all there is to know about dining etiquette
Knowing which wines to order as a compliment to any meal
Paying the bill and leaving a tip
Managing a variety of other business functions: cocktail parties, luncheons, sports events, etc.
Giving and receiving business gifts in a professional manner

Reviewing etiquette across the cultural divide

Comparing local and international views on punctuality
Evaluating different interpretations of dress
Understanding culture-specific variations in body language
Looking at business cards and gifts from the viewpoint of other cultures
Showing your respect for your business associates by respecting cultural differences

Ensuring that you know how to use the telephone, fax machine and e-mail appropriately will enable you to enhance your professional image in an environment where face-to-face communication is impossible.

Answering, making and returning calls professionally
Screening calls without aggravating your callers
Dealing with rude or aggressive callers
Providing outstanding service to both internal and external by phone, fax or e-mail
Acquiring professional cellular phone and e-mail etiquette