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Sample Newsletters

Business dining: a meeting that includes tableware

Did you know that about 50 percent of business today is conducted over a meal? Dining with customers gives you a chance to connect, away from the hectic atmosphere of an office. Here are three tips to get the most out of a business meal:

1. Plan your meal carefully by choosing the restaurant and the time according to your objectives and your customer's availability. Try to find a quiet place. A busy restaurant on a Friday makes it difficult to converse.
2. Turn off cell phones, and use this time to focus on your customer, not on the food.
3. Order the same number of courses as your customer, so everyone eats together.

Don't get confused about why you are at the table. At a business meal you are really at a business meeting that includes tableware. Use this time to build relationships with your customer, not with your food.

How to change your behavior in 21 days

Do you have a habit or behavior you'd like to change? Changing behavior takes time and effort, but research shows that if you stick to a new behavior for 21 days, it becomes incorporated into your everyday actions. Here's what to do:

1. Select a behavior you really want to change.
2. Make it specific and clear.
3. Make it measurable.
4. Practice it every day.
5. Take full power and responsibility for your actions.
6. If you get derailed, stay focused. You'll get there if you keep trying.

What to do when you remember a face but the name is erased

You meet someone you know slightly, and draw a complete blank. You remember the face, but the name is erased. Don't panic or feel badly about it. We are all overloaded with information, and meet many new people. Simply say something like, “I know we've met before, but my mind has gone blank. Please remind me of your name.”

Never risk embarrassing anyone by asking, “Do you remember me?” When someone seems to be struggling with your name, quickly reintroduce yourself. They will be grateful and may give you their name in response.