Can I Apply Lipstick and Powder at the Dinner Table?

In workshops, I have often been asked if it is appropriate to apply lipstick and powder at the dining table. Etiquette guidelines have changed over the past 60-70 years on this subject which has led to some confusion. From an etiquette perspective, here’s the scoop.

In the 1950s, it was perfectly acceptable to powder ones nose at the table, whereas today it is considered inappropriate. Excuse yourself to the restroom for a quick powder touch up.

Regarding lipstick, if you are with friends, it is fine to quickly and discreetly apply lipstick after the meal (though no lip liner, and without using a mirror).

If you are at a business meal, applying lipstick and other makeup touch ups are best done in the restroom. You want to be remembered for your business savvy, not your makeup application savvy.

"Business Etiquette Essentials" Training, June 23, 2012, Twin Cities

We have added a "Business Etiquette Essentials" workshop for June!

During this program, you will learn tools that will give you the ability to interact confidently and communicate more effectively, and the skills needed to put others and yourself at ease.

Topics covered: Winning Solutions for Effective Personal Branding - Introduction of Self and Others - How to Respond to Introductions - Making Your Eye Contact Confident and Respectful - Basic Body Language - Types of Handshakes and Their Meaning - Business Card Protocol - Techno Savvy E-mail, Cell phone, Handhelds, Texting, Social Media - Conversation Skills Basics - Tips for Remembering Names - Protocol of Engaging In and Ending Conversations -Tasteful & Taboo Topic of Conversation - Business Dining Etiquette Skills (Host & Guest Duties, Understanding the Table Setting, Oops! What to Do, Gracefully Paying & Tipping, and much more!) - Professional v. Business Casual Attire - Importance of Accessories

Date: June 23, 2012
Time: 9:00a-2:00p (registration at 8:45a)
Location: Axel’s Charhouse, 2540 N Cleveland Ave., Roseville, MN
Fee: $149; Lunch Included
Click Here to Register

April Flower and Gemstone of the Month

The gemstone for the month of April is the Diamond which represents innocence.

There are two flowers representing the month of April.

The Sweet Pea represents happiness and bliss.

      (photo courtesy of steve-h)

The Daisy represents purity, simplicity, loyalty. 

Top 5 Online Chat Faux Pas

I attended a teleseminar this afternoon where there was an ongoing chat section for participants. After today's session and seeing all the chat faux pas, thought it was time for a refresher for those who participate in such events. Here are the five experienced in today's teleseminar chat:

1. Do not share your need to use the restroom. Simply go take care of business and return. No announcements are needed. (The following picture is a post from today's session. Individual has his full name listed hence need to delete!)

2. Do not post (spam) your website, blog, or other contact information (unless invited to do so by the host). Our host today gave fair warning that those posting such information in the chat room would be removed from the chat and blacklisted for a period of time.

3. Avoid using your full name. Rather, create a nickname. (Reference to point #1 above.)

4. Avoid signing with "hugs," "love," etc. when attending a business teleseminar. Save such closings for personal messages.

5. Avoid using all CAPS when chatting. As in email, it is the equivalent of shouting.

Easter Hat Etiquette

With the return of lady-like dresses, it is wonderful to see so many lovely hats this season! With Easter tomorrow, Ladies, here are some tips on wearing your Easter hats:

-       Hats may be worn during church service. Do be mindful of those seated directly behind you. Should your hat be blocking their view, you may consider an alternate seating arrangement or remove your hat.

-       While dining out at a restaurant or another’s home for Easter brunch, ladies do wear their hats. (Note that we are referring to lady-like hats, not baseball caps which of course, should never be worn in the house.)

-       Hostesses do not wear a hat while entertaining in their home.

-       Adornments are to be placed on the right side of your hat (while adornments for gentlemen are placed on the left side).

-       Remove your daytime hat at dusk.

(Photo courtesy:www.hatsinthebelfry.com)