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Outside corridors of power
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Steer clear of blunders in business-cum-social situations by following these simple rules
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BUSINESS INTERACTIONS are no longer confined to the cubicles and offices are not just glass-and-steel corporate edifices. Interactions now take place in the evening hours in business-cum-social scenarios. Whether it is an industry-related get-together, association meets, or an internal office party - all are being organised outside power corridors.
When you are invited to one of these dos, there are certain things you need to keep in mind. Don't get carried away by the informal, back-slapping camaraderie of the event and let your hair down.
The impressions you create will remain strong and fresh in the minds of everyone the next morning when you get back to work. This perception of you also pops up when crucial decisions are being taken for and about you.
Given below is a list for you to check out the behaviour you could be guilty of and then, stop, desist and change it immediately, in all kindness to yourself and your career.
Not knowing your limits: Drinking too much and losing control over your behaviour tops the list. You might think nobody notices. Your slurred speech, glazed eyes and unsteady body language are all dead giveaways. Know your limit. If your threshold is low, stick to one or two drinks at the most and try and pack it with ice, which not only dilutes the alcohol but also helps you nurse a drink for a much longer time.
Eating too much: Don't stuff yourself as though you have been starving for days. This is for both how much you pile on your plate and put in your mouth at a time. Your boss is most probably scratching you out of his list when he has to entertain those important clients.
College behaviour: Campus days are long gone. This is not a dorm party with all your rambunctious friends. Who wants to promote someone who is so immature?
Being anti-social: Not going to any office get-together or showing up and looking abjectly miserable will put you in the same list as above, unwilling-to-grow-up peter pan types, for social immaturity.
I, me, myself, I, me, myself: Yoo-hoo, if you didn't notice, there are other humans in this world and they are all around you! In this highly competitive world one needs to blow one's trumpet, but not so loud. The more self-centered you show yourself to be, the less you appear to be a team player, definitely not somebody who can nurture and maintain a team, as its leader. Who wants someone who is so self-absorbed?
Dress sense: You want to wear your favourite T-shirt and sandals? Fine, but are you wearing clothes that befit the occasion where you respect yourself, your host and the scenario? Funky look could be cool but not for a business party, unless the dress code specifies that. Clothes make people - it is part of the impression you are creating about yourself. Choose appropriately.
Talking shop: Don't be a bore. This is not the time to discuss business or the pending projects or the upcoming appraisals. There is more to life than business. Relax, enjoy, have a conversation about topics that are of current interest. Come across as an intelligent, thoughtful, well-read person. You will score great points with this.
Meet and mingle: Make your presence known to your host/ess, boss, colleagues and subordinate. Be personable and approachable. Don't forget your graceful thanks and complimentary sentences.
Hanky panky: Never ever in an office party. There is a place and time for everything. Don't work against yourself.
Now sit and think if you are guilty of any of the above no-nos mentioned. Be honest with yourself and change your behaviour.
George Washington aptly said, "Every action done in company ought to be with some sign of respect to those who are present"!
CHITRA DANGER
(The writer is the director of ProEt Centre for International Protocol and Etiquette; Tel. Nos. 23556422 / 55503605; e- mail: proetique@yahoo.co.in; website: www.proetique.com)
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