Deborah OConnor February 11, 2013

There are times that as business people we need to entertain colleagues and clients. Business entertaining is different than non-business and it is important to avoid the pitfalls that can happen.

• When sending out invitations be specific regarding the purpose of the get-together, the time frame, and the expected attire. Business gatherings are not the time to show up in inappropriate clothing. It not only embarrasses the wearer, but can make guests feel uncomfortable as well.
• Make it very clear whether a spouse or significant other is included. The employee is responsible for their companion’s attire and they need to make sure someone doesn’t show up in embarrassing attire. It is your job and your co-workers and therefore your responsibility to give them direction.
• If you would like guests to bring an appetizer or hors d’oeuvres, state this on the invitation. Most people do not mind sharing their special recipes or dishes and it can be very helpful to the hostess. Be sure to bring it on a nice serving plate and do include any necessary utensils you may require.
• Be sure to include a phone number or email address so that guests can RSVP. What does RSVP stand for? Répondre s’il vouz plaît, which is a French term meaning  Please Respond. Please know that it is rude if you do not RSVP. It appears that many  people do not, and it is very bad manners. The host and hostess need to know who is attending their party so that they can be prepared with food, beverages, and space. If you do not respond in a week, they have every right to email or call you to see if you have dropped off the edge of the earth. Yes, it is that rude and inconsiderate to ignore RSVP.
• Arrive on time. This is especially important for a seated dinner party. You do not want to keep people waiting because you were inconsiderately tardy. And it will not go unnoticed by your boss.
• Do bring a hostess gift with you to someone’s home. A bottle of wine, chocolates, a candle, a book, any of these are lovely gifts and will be appreciated. Be sure to include a card or tag so that the hostess will know who it is from.
• Keep the conversation pleasant. Do not bring up controversial subjects or problems at work. Also, stay away from politics and religion. This is a social event and everyone should be relaxed and comfortable.
• What do you do if you spill a glass of red wine on the white tablecloth or on another guest’s clothing? Do not panic. Ask for some towels for the soiled guest and offer to pay for the dry cleaning. Tell the hostess you will pay to have the tablecloth laundered. Be sure to follow through. If you do not hear back from the person after you have offered, ask your dry cleaners how much it is to dry clean a dress or launder a tablecloth and send a check with a nice note. This kind gesture will not be forgotten. Most people do not follow up and you will stand out in a good way. If you don’t follow through, you will be remembered as the person who spilled all over the table. It’s your choice.
• Absolutely, positively write a thank-you note. It is rude not to, and you will go up in your bosses estimation.

If you use common sense and a good attitude, you can navigate any business function with flair.

Please feel free to send questions to Deborah at: www.successfulimage.biz.
She will answer them in her weekly column.


Deborah O’Connor is a social strategist and founder and president of Successful Image LLC with offices in Columbia and Atlanta. She offers training and seminars on image management, workplace etiquette, and social skills necessary to succeed in life professionally and personally. Contact at:  [email protected]        www.successfulimage.biz