Deborah OConnor January 28, 2013

There are few subjects quite as controversial as money. Whether it be d’argent, dinero, yen, euros, it can bring out the worst in people. How do you handle money issues gracefully and with aplomb? Let’s examine a few of the more salient points.

• What do you do when someone asks you how much money you make or how much you paid for your handbag? There are a few ways to handle this issue. Of course you can say, “It’s none of your business” or “Why do you want to know”?, but there are better, gentler ways to address the issue. In regards to people asking how much you make, I would suggest you say that you don’t care to share personal information regarding money and that it’s not personal, it’s just your policy. End of subject. If someone asks about the price of your handbag or other item, you can either tell them what you paid or say that it was a gift and you don’t know the cost.
• Splitting the bill. We’ve all been there. You are out to lunch with a group of friends and you ordered a salad and iced tea. Three others have an alcoholic beverage and a meal that is definitely dinner-worthy and you all split the bill. No, it’s not fair, so decide before you order how the bill will be divided. Do not be afraid to speak up and suggest separate checks or tell the waiter that you would like a separate check. If this embarrasses you, be prepared to pony up.
• Contributing to group gifts. There is usually a group effort to collect funds for teachers, assistants, etc., especially around the holidays. How much is too much to contribute? Try to make it a group effort where everyone can give their input. If the decision has already been made and you feel you cannot contribute financially, just be honest. Perhaps you can contribute baked goods or a specialty food item. Once a decision has been made, stick to the amount and don’t give extra money or gifts to someone. It can cause animosity among colleagues. Use another holiday or their birthday to do that.
• Where did you buy that? We all get asked this question multiple times. Where did you find those sharp shoes? Where did you get that cute top? Where did you find that beautiful briefcase? I’d sure like one like that. Well, sometimes we don’t want others to go out and buy exactly what we have. You are unique and you have your special look that you have cultivated. You can say that you got it on a shopping trip to Atlanta or that it was a gift from your mother. Or you can tell them exactly where you bought it, but don’t be surprised if they come to the office in your outfit. Consider it a compliment to your excellent taste.
• People who constantly complain about money. We all know someone who complains about the cost of everything and is always whining about high prices. There is nothing wrong with being conservative or frugal, just don’t make everyone else miserable by always talking about it. Some people are habitually negative regarding money and it gets really tiresome.

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