Business etiquette: Reach your goal with perfect etiquette

Your professional appearance

• The power of first impressions.
• Courtesy, respect and friendliness.
• The business wardrobe.
• Clothing as a communicative appearance.
• Differences between men and women.

Greeting, salutation, farewell

• Welcome and make yourself known.
• To be on first or last name terms?
• The correct salutation, title and greetings.
• The confident handshake.
• Arrive late and leave early.
• Dealing with business cards.

Small talk - more important than many people think

• Recognize and use situations for small talk.
• The preparation - your basic attitude.
• The friendly introduction.
• Avoid taboo subjects, find the right topics.
• Change the topic of conversation.
• If you are asked unpleasant questions.
• End conversations elegantly but firmly.

Communication with business partners

• Make and accept invitations in style.
• Communication tips for e-mails.
• Professional behavior in the meeting.
• Using cell phones and Blackberry.

Business etiquette at receptions and at the table

• Guest and host role at official events.
• Table and seating arrangements.
• Table manners and dining culture - from aperitifs to finger food.
• Bill and tip.
• Contemporary handling of food and beverages.
• Appropriate conversations at the table.
• Exemplary behavior at the buffet.
• Dealing confidently with failures, bad luck and mishaps.