How do you represent your company or individual brand and remain authentic?   Read on for great insight from my guest Debbie Laskey.

When we go to work everyday, we don certain attire to achieve a certain look as we become representatives of our company. Some companies have actual uniforms: McDonald’s, service departments within car dealerships, the US Post Office, and many, many more. Professional service firms, such as, accounting firms, law firms, and even banks, have an “unwritten” uniform that features a suit and tie for men and dresses or suits for women. However, do we represent our employer or our own unique brand?

Consider Zappos and the culture that Tony Hsieh has created: all employees strive to create an exceptional experience for customers. Zappos employees will even go above and beyond for potential customers even if the company doesn’t sell a desired product. Consider Southwest Airlines: while it is known as a low cost, no frills airline, the company’s employees understand that they are in “the customer service business and just happen to provide airline transportation,” and most customers encounter a positive experience in their interactions with Southwest.

Southwest Airlines President Emeritus Colleen Barrett explained, “Employees feel like owners because they are owners…How can you expect people to have passion and excitement for what they do if they’re not owners? We give employees the opportunity to criticize and question us. Southwest doesn’t often need to conduct surveys or hire consultants to determine what we are doing wrong or well. The employees tell us face-to-face year-round. We’re transparent and we’re all-inclusive in telling employees what’s happening. Another thing that’s unique about Southwest is its sense of humor. We use words that corporate America doesn’t. Our stock exchange symbol is LUV. We give employees a lot of freedom. We don’t want them to be cookie-cutter copies of each other. When most people go to work, they take off their personal demeanor. Then they go home and act like themselves again. We hire people for their individuality, and we want to share that with the passengers. We test for a sense of humor. We want them to laugh. We watch their interactions with others outside of the formal interview. You can train anyone to move a bag from one place to another. A team mentality is what we’re looking for.”

It’s clear that Southwest and Zappos employees represent their brands while on the clock – and it’s easy to see why. But while many of us are representations of our companies and extensions of our brands during business hours, what happens at the close of business? At that point, you represent yourself – your unique strengths, expertise, education, and experience. Your unique brand must be maintained so that you can give 110% each and every day. And remember, it is due to your having your unique brand that you were hired in the first place, so here are five tips to nurture your individual brand:

[1] Write a mission statement and action plan to clarify your professional goals and list your key strengths

[2] Keep your digital footprint current – create a detailed profile on LinkedIn and update it regularly with project highlights, create a blog, participate in conversations on Twitter, Facebook, and Google+

[3] Attend continuing education courses in your specialty area, either from experts within your business or elsewhere

[4] Request to participate in cross-departmental meetings at your business in order to gain a more comprehensive understanding of how all departments work together – and as a result, volunteer for new projects outside of your comfort zone

[5] Share your expertise with others by speaking to chambers of commerce, panel discussions, local businesses, friends’ companies, etc. – and also join professional organizations

In the words of Tom Peters, “Big companies understand the importance of brands. Today, in the Age of the Individual, you have to be your own brand. [You have] to be the CEO of Me Inc. You’re every bit as much a brand as Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop. To start thinking like your own favorite brand manager, ask yourself the same question the brand managers at Nike, Coke, Pepsi, or the Body Shop ask themselves: What is it that my product or service does that makes it different? Give yourself the traditional 15-words-or-less contest challenge. Take the time to write down your answer. And then take the time to read it. Several times. Start by identifying the qualities or characteristics that make you distinctive from your competitors – or your colleagues. What have you done lately – this week – to make yourself stand out?”

To read more, check out Tom Peters’ article, “The Brand Called You,” in Fast Company (http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/10/brandyou.html). While the article was written in 1997, it is just as current as if it were written today.

So remember, while you represent your company during business hours, you ALWAYS represent your individual brand!

ABOUT DEBBIE LASKEY, MBA
Debbie Laskey has 15 years of marketing experience and an MBA Degree. She developed her marketing expertise while working in the high-tech industry, the Consumer Marketing Department at Disneyland Paris in France, the non-profit arena, and the insurance industry. Currently, Debbie is a brand marketing and social media consultant to start-ups, small businesses, and non-profits. Recognized as a “Woman Making a Difference” by the Los Angeles Business Journal, Debbie served as a mentor for the Strategic Technology Program sponsored by the California TeleMedicine & eHealth Center. Since 2002, Debbie has served as a judge for the Web Marketing Association’s annual web award competition. Debbie writes about marketing, management, customer service, and social media on her blog (http://debbielaskey.blogspot.com) and can also be found on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/DebbieLaskeyMBA).

If you find yourself caught up in office drama, stop and consider how deeply you want to get involved. Unfortunately most workplaces do have politics; it’s something that can’t be escaped. However, some environments are more prone to negativity than others. It’s hard to get your job done when people are fighting against each other instead of working together.

When you start a job it usually isn’t obvious that you’re walking into a political hotbed. You’re just learning your duties and getting to know your co-workers, and you’re not aware of the dynamics. As you go on and become part of the inner workings, you may be pressured to choose sides.

So what can you do to stay out of the way of situations that can possibly sink your career?

Be professional

No matter what’s going on in the office, don’t allow yourself to be pulled into negative reactions. When you let the behavior of bad bosses or resentful co-workers get to you, you’ll end up on their level. Once you react to their behavior you’re now part of the problem. Take a step back and focus on doing your job.

Often employees are dragged into disputes between higher-ups. The unfortunate part is that you can end up paying the consequences, no matter who comes out on top. When your co-workers get together to gossip, try your best not to be drawn into the drama. It will be difficult because your reluctance to join in may turn some people off. In the workplace there’s constant pressure to be part of the group. Just be selective as to what type of group you align yourself with.

Stay in integrity

Are you firm in your own beliefs, or will you do anything to gain acceptance? When office politics are overshadowing the work, then you have to decide what your place in that environment will be. Are you a person of your word, or will you say anything in order to get favor?

Set boundaries when it comes to how you interact with the people around you. That’s not something that should be determined by the behavior of others. Whether or not you stay in integrity is up to you, not up to your co-workers, your manager or anyone else.

Determine your long-term goals

Consider your objectives for being in that position. Are you looking for career advancement or just doing your job until you find something better? Getting into office squabbles can affect how you’re perceived by others in the company (and possibly in your industry). If you’re planning to build a long-term career in that company, avoid getting involved in activities that will overshadow everything you do throughout your tenure.

Stay balanced

A politically-charged atmosphere is extremely stressful, especially when you’re doing your best to stay out of the line of fire. You can end up sick and filled with dread once Sunday evening rolls around. Find ways to calm your mind and your emotions. If you never get a break from the tension, you’ll end up stuck in anger and resentment. You don’t want the effects of your environment to turn you into someone you don’t recognize.

Take stock

Though everyone has dealt with office politics at one time or another, if it becomes unbearable you’ll have to decide if you want to remain in that job. You may be better off making a move to a department (or company) where you’ll have less in-fighting and more job satisfaction. In spite of the politics, are you continuing to learn and advance your skills in your current position? If your skills are growing stale you owe it to yourself to look for an environment with more opportunity.

There’s nothing wrong with being a team player, but be careful if it means that you must be a political player in order to be accepted. Some people are able to manage the political game and remain unscathed, however most people aren’t so lucky. Protect yourself and your career by being smart about how you participate.

Deborah A Bailey is a writer, coach, host of Women Entrepreneurs Radio and author of the book, “Think Like an Entrepreneur: Transforming Your Career and Taking Charge of Your Life.” She presents workshops and teleclasses on how to manage professional and personal transitions.

I’m so excited and filled with gratitude to have been chosen to be featured in this month’s Spirit Alive Magazine.

Click on button to vote.

I’ve been nominated as a “Small Business Influencer” in the Guru category.  If you believe I’ve influenced the business community in anyway; would you mind sharing this link and encouraging those in your network to vote for me? I would truly appreciate the support and the votes.

I would love to have 500 votes or more by the end of the week. All you and those in your network have to do is click the VOTE button, no email required.
Click here to vote.
http://influencers.smallbiztrends.com/small-business-gurus/walethia-aquil/
Each person can vote every day!!

With Grace and Charm,
Walethia

I’m so excited to introduce to you Juanita Ecker.  I encourage you to visit her web-site to learn more about Juanita and her services.  I’m really appreciative to Juanita for writing this article, because I’m sensitive to fragrances!

By Juanita Ecker

My husband and I have recently become good friends with a couple whom we met through Joe’s golf outings. The four of us enjoy going out to dinner, but at first I struggled with one issue: fragrance.

The first time we all went out, the wife wore perfume. I noticed it right away as I am scent-sensitive—perfumes, colognes, and other products with a strong smell bother me. When we left to go to dinner, the men sat in the front of the car while the women were in the back seat.

Sitting side by side, I was overwhelmed by the smell of her perfume! It’s not that it was an unpleasant smell—it was very pretty. Still, I am very sensitive to chemicals and it was uncomfortable, like being around a smoker if you don’t smoke. Even so, I didn’t say anything because I didn’t want to offend her. Plus, it was the first time we had met, and I didn’t want to make a bad first impression.

The second and third time we went out to dinner, I was in the exact same position. I began to react to her perfume. My nose ran, I got a headache, and I had a chemical taste in my mouth. I needed to tell her of my predicament!

But how? When someone is told their fragrance is too strong, they tend to equate it with being told that they smell bad. This causes embarrassment and offense.

Alternatively, people may see scent sensitivity as the sufferer’s problem. Why should they have to change their beauty routine to make life easier for someone with an allergy?

I think the best solution is to just bring it up in an informal way. For instance, you could compliment the person’s fragrance, or ask which brand they wear. When they respond, you can say, “It’s nice. I wish I could wear perfume, but I get an allergic reaction. Even my husband has to skip cologne!”

Notice that I used the phrase “allergic reaction” rather than “sensitive.” Many people suffer from allergies of one form or another, and phrasing it this way may make them more sympathetic. The word “sensitive” can sometimes convey a whiney tone, and people may not realize the physical ailments that you suffer as a result.

Naturally, people will be curious about the extent of your reaction, and if they are wearing scents that are too strong. I would say, “You’re fine, but if I have to keep my distance or my nose starts running, please don’t be offended!” Or you could suggest traveling in separate cars. Always be willing to make sacrifices on your part so that people don’t feel like you’re over-dramatizing the situation or putting them out. And having an understanding with your spouse or close friends can also help. For instance, if you are feeling overwhelmed, your spouse can offer to sit closest to the person with the strong perfume, or suggest a quick stroll outside to get some fresh air.

With a little tact and the willingness to make some concessions, you can come clean about your sensitivity to fragrances. Don’t let your health suffer just because you’re worried about speaking up!

Juanita Ecker

Professional Image Management

“We specialize in turning your company’s diamonds in the rough into tomorrow’s business leaders.”

(518) 279-9388 (Eastern Time)

Blog http://etiquettetipsandquips.com

Website http://www.professionalimagemgt.com

Linked-In http://www.linkedin.com/in/juanitaecker

Twitter http://twitter.com/JuanitaEcker

A Grace and Charm Exclusive.

As an instructor of  The Global Institute of Enterprise Development I just facilitated  a four week training program entitled, “Business Etiquette for Today’s Savvy Entrepreneur,” which is an exclusive for The Global Institute.  The program was a great success.  Read what Davette Harvey, President/Founder had to say about the program.

The Global Institute of Enterprise Development:  ” Walethia, you provided us with a world-class course in Business Etiquette. It was amazing to learn, revisit and expound upon decorum that can assist us with cultivating business relationships that can make the difference between business success or failure. You are truly full of Grace & Charm and a star among the Global Entrepreneurship Educator Team!”

Davette (Franks) Harvey

President/Founder The Global Institute of Enterprise Development, M.A., Ed.D. (Candidate)

When The Global Experts Speak Serious Entrepreneurs Should Listen

Over the course of my career as an etiquette and image coach, I have had the privilege of working with some very high profile and influential people. But nothing gives me more joy than to find ways to give back and teach our young people using the same skills and techniques.
You are never too young to practice etiquette. If you are a parent, a teacher, friend, relative of a young person or even a student, recent college grad looking for ways to prepare for working/living in the “real” world, knowing proper etiquette can open doors-even at this age.
Young people, especially in this present generation, who are willing to learn the rules of etiquette as it relates to how they conduct themselves in school, on the job and on the internet, can guarantee that they will stand out from the crowd. Benefits may include: landing your dream job, being accepted into a great school, etc. The more you put into practice on a daily basis, the more these tips/strategies will become a way of life for you.

Here are some etiquette tips that I wanted to share specifically for today’s youth when it comes to interviewing.
Job Interview Etiquette
It does not matter if you are applying for a job at your local fast food restaurant or an internship at an elite fashion magazine; always put your best self forward. Here are some ways to beat the competition:

• Make sure you show up for your interview dressed in an appropriate manner. Do some research to see what the dress code for the job you are looking to land. A suit may not be necessary, but make sure your outfit is clean and nicely pressed. Your shoes should also be clean and in good condition.
• Arrive at least 5 to 10 minutes earlier than your scheduled appointment. It will give you time to fill out any extra paperwork. Also, go to the bathroom at check yourself out in the mirror.
• Turn off your cell phone. Texting or reading emails while you are waiting is a distraction and may give off the wrong impression.
• During the Interview
• Do not chew gum during your interview. Sometimes people chew gum to calm their nerves but it is consider rude and annoying.
• Greet your interviewer with a firm handshake and a smile.
• Sit up straight, place your hands in your lap and look the person in the eye when speaking or spoken to.
• Answer each question clearly and in a voice that is audible. It is ok to briefly pause before you answering a question. Eliminate the “”uhs”, “you knows”, and slang.
• After the Interview
• Shake each interviewer’s hand and thank each interviewer by name.
• Send a thank you note after the interview as soon as possible.

Grace and Charm Insight-86% of Recruiters Use Social Media to Research Applicants.
NY, NY – 5/24/10 – Research shows 86% of recruiters look at social media sites like Facebook (FB), Twitter and MySpace to learn more about job applicants and 44% don’t hire applicants based on their findings.

So if think those cute, funny pictures of you dancing on the table, in a bikini, showing off your tattoos, hanging with your boys, exposing body parts etc. don’t matter.  Potential employees, recruiters use social media to gain insight into a persons character, morals and values.

Don’t sabotage your future for what you believe to be just fun!

“What you say and do on-line is just as important as what you say and do in the workplace. Whether you’re job hunting or gainfully employed inappropriate behavior can be a deal-breaker.

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I’m offering a new service, every Wednesday I’ll be online starting at 10:00 AM (EST) to take your questions.

This is your opportunity to  have your etiquette or image related questions answered by an expert before your next business or social event.

You can ask me questions such as:

•    How do I entertain a guest visiting my office for the first time?
•    When sitting down to the dining table, from which side do I approach my chair?
•    Should I order an alcoholic beverage during business meeting?

and more!

Be sure to like my ‘Grace and Charm’ fan page if you have not already.

Networking-How to Leverage Your Contacts for Wealth and Power

Ask yourself this question:  There are people waiting to help you why aren’t you meeting them.

The right relationship can be worth millions of dollars to you.

George C Frasier “The goal of all networking is to find a human connection and then add value.”
In today’s business world, now more than ever it is important to build relationships.
Relationship currency can catapult your business to the next level seamlessly; the right connections can earn you millions of dollars.  If you don’t network your business will dry up.  I’m going to share with you little known secrets of networking effectively.

Reasons people don’t network:

• Unsure of the business and social protocols and formulas to making introductions.

• Uncomfortable initiating conversions and engaging in small talk at social functions with people they don’t know.

• Don’t feel at ease work a room, don’t know how to mingle and interact with strangers.

First change your mindset about networking.  Networking is not about how many cards you can hand out or how many you collect.  As a matter of fact the fewer cards you hand out the more you will seem to others as someone who has power and influence, someone they will want to connect with.
Change the way you think about your contacts.  Seek to add value to your contacts. Seek to give not to receive.  Successful networkers spend more time connecting others and being resourceful than they do looking for clients.

1. Choose the right event.  Join organization that your ideal client belongs to.  If you are an account, only attending events your peers attend won’t expand your network very much.
2. Asking this one questions will open doors and create opportunities.  “Who is your ideal client?” or “What do you need most right at the moment in your business or personal life?”
3. Know how to make introductions and always include some information to provide the basis for a conversation.  Extend your self to those you don’t know well-take an interest in others by asking questions and showing interest in what is being said.
4. Be a connector-introduce someone to a person they need to know.
5. Show up early.  When you arrive early before the event starts you may have the opportunity to network one on one with a VIP.  Meet and connect with the event organizer, this person is very connected.
6. Listen more than talk, show a genuine interest in others, and ask questions.  Talk about them not you.
7. Want your business to grow?  Provide value and help others, that is the key to growing your business and increasing your bottom line.
8. Find the connectors.  The connectors are the people with influence; these are the people you want to meet.  Connectors are easy to identify, they usually have a large group of people around them.
9. Introduce yourself to the connectors.  When introducing yourself to a connector start by giving them a compliment.

Example:  Excuse me, I’ve noticed you seem to attract a crowd, I figured I should introduce myself and find out why, hi my name is…”
Ask a question after they give you their name.  Ask about the event or their participation in other networking events.  The goal is to maintain control.
Avoid these subject with others you don’t know well;  a guaranteed way to close a deal,  but not the way you want.

• Money
• Politics
• Personal information
• Illness
• Don’t blame, criticize or complain

Make a potential client or connection feel special, before handing them your card write your direct number or email on the card, that way they are more than likely to keep your card.
The money is in the follow up.  Within twenty-four hours follow up with your connection.  Send a handwritten note; saying how much you enjoyed the conversation and you look forward to connecting with them soon.  Make a referral if it is appropriate.
Choosing the right organization-

When you look at the various organizations you should join, you should select no more than two or three.  Target the ones with the people that can be the most helpful to you.  When you join, your strategy should be to look at the various committees of the organization.  Volunteer for the committee that engages in the activities that are most important to the organization, such as governmental affairs or fundraising.  Then get fully involved in your chosen responsibilities.

You will find that the members of the key committees are usually key players in the business community as well.  By joining the committee, you create an opportunity to interact with them in a completely voluntary and non-threatening way.  You give them a chance to see what you can really do, outside the work environment.  And you contribute to the committee as a peer, not as an employee or subordinate.

Grace and Charm Insight:

Want to connect with the movers and the shakers? Find a cause you  are passionate about and volunteer.

Connecting with those who can help you.

How do you know who your most valuable connections are? Why do you need them? How do you find them? Let me share some insights with you:
What are the 10 characteristics of a great primary connection and why do you need them in your network?
A great primary connection:
1. Has a wide variety of connections
2. Is observant of people and environment
3. Has a talent for staying in touch
4. Is outwardly focused (has a purpose greater than themselves)
5. Is sensitive to the needs of others
6. Has access to different information
7. Has natural talent for connecting and helping
8. Is focused on diversity
9. Is spiritually, intellectually and emotionally balanced
10. Is an influencer to a broad base
Why do you want great primary connections?
They help you to achieve your personal and business goals faster by offering emotional support, information support, knowledge support, promotional support, wisdom support, transformational opportunities support and community support.
Go beyond networking. Build your business relationships strategically and systematically. The acquaintance you make today may become your closest business alliance tomorrow.
Follow Up:
If you are going to take the time to network, then please take the time to follow up with the people you meet. You can send them a handwritten note or reach out to them to schedule coffee or a meeting. This depends on how well you connected.

• Develop a system.
• Don’t  follow up via e-mail unless the person asks you to.
• Do at least send a note.
• Don’t pitch too early. Quite frankly, don’t “pitch” at all. When you build relationships it will become apparent to you and the other person when it makes sense to do business with each other. Remember, business networking is about relationships, not selling.
• Don’t sign people up for your newsletter  without their permission.
• Don’t assume that just because you met someone you now have license to gain a referral from them, use them as a resource, or give them your promotional and sales materials.
• Do err on the side of good manners and the golden rule.

“Fully embrace the etiquette of long term relationship building.
Earl G. Graces Jr.-Black Enterprise Magazine

Recommended reading:

Click:  Ten Truths for Building Extraordinary Relationships by George C Fraser

George C. Fraser
“Networking is a misunderstood term today because it implies friendship with people who are, in reality, only mere acquaintances.  And we all know that when you’re in a crunch, its true friends that help; acquaintances just wish you well. Networking isn’t about the quantity of contacts you make; it’s about the quality of relationships you develop and already have. Spend more time on relationship building.”

Want to perfect your networking skills, I can help.  Contact me today and you can be on your way to making connections with the right people who can help you grow your business or advance in your career. Fill out the contact me form.  Click here

International Book Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE        FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Email: walethia@graceandcharm.com
Web address: www.prowoman.net

Louisville, KY. USA ~ “Sister to Sister: A Guide for African American Girls” releases June 28th  by Professional Woman Publishing.  Simone Wilson is one of 22 international  authors featured in this compilation of expertise and creative knowledge. This much anticipated special edition includes a range of personal  topics for young girls of color  including “ The Guiding Light, Self-Awareness: What Do You Stand For?, Pampering the Princess Within, Importance of Positive Self-Talk, Esteem, Sex, Abuse and Promiscuity, Chastity, Rags to Riches: My Personal Scar, Obesity and Self-Worth, Education and Beyond, Use Your Power! Creating a Positive Image in Entertainment, Dating, Relationships & Handling Rejection, Giving Circle for Youth Philanthropy, First Impressions and Personal Image,  Living with Challenges, Etiquette, Grace & Charm for The African American Girl, Preparing to Live the Life of Your Dreams, 12 Strategies to Succeed in School, Leadership in Spite of it All!, Uniquely You! Beautiful and Strong, Success Strategies By Successful Sisters, The Power of Your Social Network and Brand, and Building Blocks for Self-Esteem.

“Sister to Sister: A Guide for African American Girls is the eighth book  in the PWN African- American Library to date, and the 38th   in The Professional Woman empowerment series for women and youth.  The Professional Woman Network is one of the world’s fastest growing international training & publishing organizations on Women’s Issues & Empowerment Resources. PWN, founded by President and CEO, Linda Ellis Eastman, represents over 3,800 consultants, coaches and authors spanning 19 countries including Malaysia, South Africa, United States, Bermuda, England, Costa Rica, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Jamaica.  More Information can be found at www.pwnbooks.com.

Media may contact:
Professional Woman Publishing
Email: prowoman@prodigy.net
Web address: www.pwnbooks.com

Author available for interview or photo ops:
Walethia Aquil
Chapter : Grace and Charm for the African American Girl

You are entitled to a complimentary:
Make A Good Impression With
The Right Business Attire
eLearning lesson ($129 Value).
Simply visit www.psowelearn.com
Purchase Make A Good Impression With The Right Business Attire
Apply Discount Code: HGY3TMBO for 100% discount
Enjoy the Learning Journey!
Course Description: Everyone is looking at you. Will it be for the right reasons,
or the wrong ones? Professional business attire can yield an instant edge over the competition.
Discount Code Expires June 30, 2011.

And a 15 minute charm session with me ($80 Value)
As a proud graduate of the Protocol School of Washington I’m excited to part of an organization that promotes civility.
The Protocol School of Washington  is recognized worldwide as the best in the industry and is accredited through The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), which is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
In honor of National Business Etiquette Week.  I’m offering a complementary Business Etiquette 15 minute coaching session, one time only.
Schedule your session today.
 To take advantage of this exclusive offer send me an e-mail to:  asktheexpert@graceandcharm.com .  In the subject line put Business Etiquette offer.

This offer is only valid through June 5-11 on a first come first served basis.

PS  Be sure to register for your complimentary Business Etiquette e-course.  Tips and strategies  delivered  to your mail box designed to up level your career or business.

I’m honored to be featured in this month’s  Exceptional People Magazine.  I would like to thank Ms. Monica Davis for creating a vehicle that has allowed me the opportunity to share ‘Grace and Charm’ with the world.

Exceptional People Magazine Celebrates 5th Anniversary

Exceptional People Magazine created by Monica Davis is The Premier Personal Development and Self Improvement Magazine.  Providing Inspiration, Personal Power, Influence and Wealth Building Strategies from Today’s Top Leaders.

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I am Monica Davis, the founder of Exceptional People Magazine. My mission is to enhance the quality of life for all people by promoting goodwill, unity and better living through positive media. This magazine will inspire people to reach their full potential.

Readers around the world have been given hope and they have been inspired to change their lives. I have interviewed celebrities, sports figures and others who have achieved extraordinary accomplishments and have made a difference in their communities and the world.

You can read the full interview here and receive a complimentary one year subscription and a chance to win over $5,000. 00 in gifts and prizes.

Click here to enter to win $5,000.00 in gifts and prizes.

Protocol School of Washington Launches 5th National Business Etiquette Week
June 5-11

As a proud graduate of the Protocol School of Washington I’m excited to part of an organization that promotes civility.

The Protocol School of Washington  is recognized worldwide as the best in the industry and is accredited through The Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET), which is officially recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

In celebration of National Business Etiquette Week.  I’m offering a complementary Business Etiquette 15 minute coaching session, one time only.

Schedule your session today.
To take advantage of this exclusive offer send me an e-mail to:  asktheexpert@graceandcharm.com.  In the subject line put Business Etiquette offer.

This offer is only valid through June 5-11 on a first come first served basis.

It’s here, it’s done and I’m so excited.  I’m sharing my excitement and sense of accomplishment to inspire, motivate and encourage each and everyone of you.

I’m excited because I’m sharing knowledge that has opened doors for me, knowledge that has put me before great leaders.  Knowledge that has changed my life and now I’m given the opportunity to share this knowledge with young women around the world!

Other authors in the book include Sharon H. Hill, Phyllis Clark and Tracey M.  Booker to name  a few.  Pre-order your copy now @ www.pwnbooks.com and give a young girl the gift of ‘Grace and Charm.’  Encourage and empower her to know she is worth and deserving of the best.  Available June 28, 2011.

Excerpt from “A Guide for African American Girls:

Why Grace and Charm?
Getting along with family, friends, enjoying dates, doing well in school, preparing for the future – these are the things that matter most to young girls. Social skills are the foundation of today’s girls personal and career development. It is therefore important for girls to acquire and learn how to apply social living skills on their road to success.
Sugar and spice and everything nice, is that what little girls are made of? What an awesome time to be a girl! The possibilities are endless. A girl today can become the President of the United States, an astronaut or anything in between.
Today’s girls have so many pressures…they want to fit in, achieve, compete with boys and live up to societies expectations of what and who she should be. Pressures from the media can also hinder a girls self-perception, especially when she doesn’t feel she is pretty, popular, talented or socially accepted.
This chapter is designed to lay the foundations and ABC’s toward:
•    A healthy, positive self-image that fills one’s life with confidence and develops one’s leadership skills
•    Etiquette and social graces that ensures one’s continued success
•    Self-esteem, academics, and positive behavior
You can learn how to make more friends, get along with family member AND be more attractive to others – all with The Power of Grace and Charm. With proper etiquette and a polished image you can achieve anything you want in life – increased income, freedom, the lifestyle of your dreams, influence and the ability to persuade others.

Whatever it is you are inspiring to do, you can do it with ‘Grace and Charm.’

The weather is heating up! Question are bare legs ever appropriate in a professional environment?