Dear Pincess,

I will be attending some business functions and have a questions regarding business protocol. I want to make a good impression and climb up the corporate and social ladder.

If you are being introduced to a group of business associates, who's hand to you shake first?

If you are in the group and have a glass and a plate in your hands, what do you do if you are introduced?

If you are seated, do you need to stand to shake hands?

I don't want to make any business blunders.







Wednesday, December 18, 2002

Dear Business and Social Climber,

Unless you are attending a black tie corporate soiree, here are some general guidelines.

If you are standing amongst a group of associates and someone comes up and is introduced, you make shake hands if it is not cumbersome. A gentle acknowledgement and hello is sufficient.

If you are in a buffet line, or attending a cocktail party and your hands are occupied with drink and a plate, a simple hello is sufficient.

If you are seated and someone is introduced to the associates at the table, it is not necessary to get up and reach over to shake hands. Never reach in front or around someone. Just remember, if the movement is not graceful, go with the flow. Smile, be charming, and say hello.

If you are seated on a sofa or chair and ladies enter and are introduced, you may rise and shake hands if it's not awkward.

Your actions determine the engagement, participants, and circumstances. Use good judgement. Protocol has global complexities. If in doubt, research it.

Enjoy your social engagements. Have fun, and unless your "a social climber", you won't need to go through the theatrics of being introduced. Your manners will be your business card and introduction for you!

Princess Darby