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Ask the Expert
Do
you have a business communications question or business etiquette dilemma?
Ask the expert Barbara Pachter.
Question:
Hello: I work for a corporation that holds a lot of "get togethers"
outside the office. They usually go to a hotel in a resort area not far
from the corporate offices. Do you have specific tips on how to present
oneself in this type of "work parties" environment? I am not
American by birth and I come from a culture that does not promote this
type of business "outing" with your peers and bosses. Thank
you!
Answer:
Thank you for your question. Here are some suggestions:
- Attend
the "get togethers." In the US these functions are seen as
team building opportunities and your absence will be noticed. And if
spouses are expected, bring yours.
- Dress
appropriately. Nothing too sexy.
- Do
not get drunk.
- Mingle.
Don't just talk to the people you know. Talk about other things besides
work.
Best
of luck,
Barbara
Question:
A client calls to say that he's in town (on other business). He suggests
that we meet for dinner and asks me to make the arrangements. Is he assumed
to be the host because he suggested the dinner or am I assumed to be the
host because he is a visitor in my town and I made the arrangements? How
can I gracefully determine who should pay for dinner?
Answer:
Thank you for contacting Ask the Expert.
The client is technically the host since he asked
you to dinner. Yet, since you were asked to make the arrangements and
most clients expect their vendors to pick up the tab, I would assume the
client expects you to pay for the meal.
Have
a great evening,
Barbara
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