Today image is as important as ever, and in order to showcase the best ‘you’ to the world it is vitally important that you take control of other people’s perception of you. Any time you are out in public or are meeting someone for the first time, you are sending a message about who you are. Following the list of etiquette rules below will help to ensure that you put your best food forward and are always projecting an image of class and refinement.

1. Always arrive on time – Being late is rude and shows a disregard for the other person’s time.  Making an effort to be on time lets the other people know that you respect them and are dependable.

2. Follow through – In business especially; if you say you are going to do something make sure to follow through.  This will help establish you as someone of integrity and someone who can be counted on.

3. Thank you – Writing a thank you note after receiving a gift will most certainly let the giver know that their gift was appreciated and displays good manners and class.

4. Don’t be ‘that person’ on your cell phone – It’s hard to imagine a world without the convenience of cell phones. However, proper etiquette dictates that cell phone conversations should be appropriate in both content and volume when in public. Conversations of a delicate nature discussed in public are in poor taste, as is the disruption caused by loud speaking. Remember that others can hear you and to keep your conversation appropriate for anyone to hear while in public.

5.Don’t be the office gossip – While you may be dying to dish on the latest office gossip, don’t do it! Office gossip causes an unprofessional atmosphere and sends the message to everyone else that they can’t really trust you. Instead, be an example of someone of integrity and don’t say anything about someone that would embarrass you if they found out about it.

6. Dress Appropriately – Being dressed inappropriately can cast you in a negative light and cause embarrassment (especially at a work function). If you are not sure what attire the event calls for try to contact someone to ask. However, if that not possible it’s best to err on the side of caution and slightly over dress as opposed to showing up in a sweatshirt and jeans to a business casual event.

7. Positive Attitude – Having a positive attitude in the workplace and in life in general, can take you far. No one wants to be around the ‘Constant Complainer’. Displaying a positive mental attitude exudes emotional intelligence and will make other want to be in your company.

8. Email –While it is an incredible communication tool that most of us couldn’t imagine life without, you want to make sure that your email communication is respectful of other and does not cast you in a negative light. When thinking email etiquette remember; Never write in all caps (this implies you are yelling), be sure your responses are complete and to the point, and never forward on virus hoaxes or chain letters!

9. Dining Etiquette – Make sure to remember your table manners. Nothing says ‘unsophistication’ like chewing with your mouth open or being a noisy eater. While it is good to know proper fork and knife placement, if you at least have the essentials of courteous dining manners you likely will be able to avoid embarrassment when fine dining.

10. Language – While it seems that slang is everywhere and every generation has their own unique array of expressions, it most certainly does not have its place in every situation. In the office, speaking to a teacher at your child’s school or generally any public speaking calls for  the use of proper language. This shows respect to the person you are communicating with and highlights your intelligence.

This list is not at all complete, what etiquette tip would you add?

Walethia helps you build a new kind of wealth, “Social Capital” by equipping professionals and other service providers  with training in
proper  business decorum and protocol’s in a step by step system that is  specific to getting results.  Now you can position yourself to never miss an opportunity due to fear, indecision, doubt, or lack of confidence.

Learn  how you can move from ‘Invisible to Impeccable’, visit Grace and Charm  today. Have an etiquette/image question email Walethia:  info@graceandcharm.com, direct number 1- 810-334-5427 or 1-866-610-3746.

Want to connect with me?  I’m only a click away.

Like my Facebook fan page:   http://www.facebook.com/graceandcharm
Join Business and Career Etiquette:  http://www.facebook.com/groups/graceandcharm/
Connect on LinkedIn:  http://www.linkedin.com/in/graceandcharm
Twitter:  @graceandcharm2
You Tube:  Grace and Charm Success Channel

http://www.youtube.com/user/walethia?feature=mhum

Introducing “How to Win Friends and Influence People the Grace and Charm Way” Teleseminar Series 2012

Now you can experience the power of Grace and Charm, our new monthly teleseminar series is comprised of relevant tips and strategies you can implement immediately.

These exclusive teleseminars are designed to give you the boost you need to uplevel your business or career so you can make the income you deserve and the impact you desire with less strain and struggle.

Right now, think about your biggest business challenge or headache. Now imagine being in the right place to receive a mind-opening strategy or solution for overcoming this challenge.

Every professional can benefit from How to Win Friends and Influence People the Grace and Charm Way no matter where they are in their business growth.

Our teleseminars are offered the second Thursday each month from 12:00 -12:30 (Eastern Time)  The teleseminars are complimentary,  however registration is required.

Dial-in information will be provided upon registration, and we encourage you to invite others to these free professional development learning events – the more the merrier!

Click here register for of all the How to Win Friends and Influence People the Grace and Charm Way Teleseminars Series for 2012 and register now for the rest of the year.  For questions or suggestions on at topic you would like featured, feel free to email us at:asktheexpert@graceandcharm.com

See you on the call.

With Grace and Charm,

Walethia helps you build a new kind of wealth, “Social Capital” by equipping professionals and other service providers  with training in
proper  business decorum and protocol’s in a step by step system that is  specific to getting results.  Now you can position yourself to never miss an opportunity due to fear, indecision, doubt, or lack of confidence.

Learn  how you can move from ‘Invisible to Impeccable’, visit Grace and Charm today. Have an etiquette/image question email Walethia at:  info@graceandcharm.com, direct number 1- 810-334-5427 or 1-866-610-3746.

Want to connect with me?  I’m only a click away.

Like my Facebook fan page
Join Business and Career Etiquette
Connect on LinkedIn
Twitter: @graceandcharm2
You Tube:  Grace and Charm Success Channel

Prom Dress Drive

Grace and Charm helps dreams come true for young area women.

On January 21 My Dreams do Come True, a community initiative created by Walethia Aquil, CEO of Grace and Charm, in collaboration with Danielle Green, CEO of Empower, joined forces to host a community event to collect new and gently used formal gowns for young area women.

The event was hosted by Bubba O’Malley in Burton MI with a $10.00 all you can eat pizza buffet.  The event was attended by over 171 men, women and children.  Some of the highlights included a belly dancer, a professional wrestling team and Ms. Black Michigan, Shantel Knox.

Moneys raised will be used to purchase greatly needed items such as hair and nail care for area girls wanting to attend their prom.

Over the past two and half years My Dreams do Come True has provided the community with over 100 new and gently used gowns, FREE

If you would like to donate a new or gently used gown, jewelry or other accessories please email: info@mydreamsdocometrue.org

The money we raise each year will go to My Dreams Do Come True to provide prom dresses and accessories to young ladies who otherwise may not be able to afford t…hem. We are also having a Prom/Formal Dress Drive during this event. We will accept new and gently used dresses. Please come and support a worthy cause.

We also will have a Pizza Buffet ($10.00 tickets)
Silent Auction
Spa Package drawing

Be sure to like our Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/My-Dreams-do-Come-True/165786510143476

2. Become a philanthropist. Philanthropy is not limited to those who give great sums of money.  Philanthropy as defined by The Free Online Dictionary is: deliberate affection for mankind, shown in contributions of money, property, or work for the benefit of others. I created an organization called “My Dreams do Come True.”  I can’t start to tell you the media opportunities  and brand recognition I’ve received by giving back to my community.

3. Practice good manners. People like to be around those who are kind and considerate.  You are also setting standards for others’ behavior and encouraging them to treat you with similar respect.

Grace and Charm Insight: Many people think etiquette is all about the fork you use.  It is not! Developing your social skills will:

• Increase your earning potential by opening doors of opportunity
• Enhance your relationships
• Attract better and higher paying customers or clients
• Clients become raving fans
• Increased self-esteem
• Position you to attain power and influence
• Win the support of others who can help you achieve your goals
• More media opportunities
• Establishes immediate trust and credibility

Business etiquette is a necessity even more in today’s business world where it does not only give you a competitive edge over the competition but also brands you as the preferred, partner to do business with.

4. Seek media opportunities. We are constantly vying for attention in a crowded marketplace. Publicity is one of the most effective – and inexpensive – ways to generate awareness about you or your organization. Plus editorial coverage is three times more credible than an advertisement and therefore, more effective than other forms of communication.

5. Develop the skill of listening. When you want to show someone you like them focus on them. Become interested in what they are saying or even doing. Attentively listen to them as they speak and become involved with their conversation. As they talk, paraphrase and ask them pertinent questions regarding what they are saying. If they are busy doing something and it looks like they could use some help, offer to help them. Both listening and helping are other ways to show people you like them.

Walethia helps you build a new kind of wealth, “Social Capital” by equipping
professionals and other service providers  with training in proper  business decorum and protocol’s in a step by step system that is  specific to getting results.  Now you can position yourself to never miss an opportunity due to fear, indecision, doubt, or lack of confidence.
Learn  how you can move from ‘Invisible to Impeccable’, visit Grace and Charm today.

Have an etiquette/image question email Walethia at:  info@graceandcharm.com,
 direct number 1- 810-334-5427 or 1-866-610-3746.

Want to connect with me?  I’m only a click away.
Like my Facebook fan page:  http://www.facebook.com/graceandcharm

Join Business and Career Etiquette:  http://www.facebook.com/groups/graceandcharm/

Connect on LinkedIn:  http://www.linkedin.com/in/graceandcharm

Twitter: @graceandcharm2

You Tube: Grace and Charm Success Channel

With Grace and Charm,

Walethia and Family

Your personal brand is a reflection of your vision of the world, your purpose in supporting that vision, your values and your passions. When you are clear about your goals, the messaging you create will be consistent with your personal brand.

Sixty-seven percent of first impressions are accurate. People judge you firstly by appearance, 
then by how you communicate, and finally by the words you use. Is your professional image an 
accurate reflection of your brand?

You can establish your credibility, increase your market share, and position yourself as the expert by improving all aspects of your professional image. Improving your image will have a direct effect on improving your perceived professionalism and quality of your brand.

1. Determine the “look” you want. Your physical appearance sends out a message. What message do you want to send?    

2. Reflect your internal values by you physical appearance. People expect this. If you went into a bank to deposit a large sum of money, and the banker was wearing a Mohawk haircut and an earring, would you leave your money?

3. Know that a good physical appearance is important to every aspect of your lifestyle. Everyone around you is affected by your appearance. A good appearance builds self- esteem and allows you to forget about your self and concentrate on other matters.

4. Evaluate yourself objectively. Evaluate the good points of your appearance and accept those things that can not be changed.
5. Begin with a plan. Consider the total picture you want to create and then address each individual part.

6. Compete only with yourself. Take your natural qualities and perfect each detail to the best of your ability.

7. Choose “quality” over quantity. Choose the best technicians to help you with your image, the best products for your skin, the best clothing your budget will allow.

8. Recognize that “balance” is the most important part of a masterpiece. When you look at a landscape scene and a tree is too large, the picture cannot qualify as a masterpiece.

9. Realize that your head and shoulders constitute the “focal point” of the picture. Since everyone looks you in the eye, this area is the most important part of your image.

10. Realize that from the shoulder to the waist is also a high visibility area. A man’s tie must hang exactly right to create balance. A belt worn correctly establishes good proportion.

11. Balance the ways your clothing “fits”. A masterpiece is the result of paying attention to every single detail.

12. Know that “color” is second importance. People will forgive you anything but being dull. Your best colors will make you look brighter.

13. Remember color is free. Even a sweat suit may be bought in color that is flattering to your natural color palette.

14. Create an individual style by using “contrast”. You are an original
15. Invest time in creating an outstanding appearance You may have to rise 30 minutes earlier.

16. Make good habits a part of your- plan. You may have to break old habits, such as sleeping until the last minute, and form new ones so that your best image can happen daily.

17. Begin where you are. Start today!

How you are known; your personal or business brand or your reputation is the most important 
thing as it is your promise to your client. It will ensure your business or personal integrity, if you 
seek to maintain it.

Need a speaker for your next event?  Consider Walethia Aquil.  Any business motivational speaker can entertain and present inspirational messages, but very few can deliver a speech that creates immediate perceptional and behavioral changes benefiting both the participant and the organization.

Contact information: walethia@graceandcharm.com Toll free number: 1.866.610.3746

Please feel free to use this article in your newsletter, on your blog, or website.  However, the following byline must be included in its entirety and the article must not be edited in any form and must be presented exactly as it appears here.

About the author:
Walethia is not trendy, she  provides her clients with foundational principals with practical applications that produce results. She shows entrepreneurs and career professionals a much more sophisticated way of creating brand awareness that is specific to getting results.  Results such as growing profits, taking control and making more money.  Now you can position yourself to never miss an opportunity due to fear, indecision, doubt, or lack of confidence. Learn  how you can move from ‘Invisible to Impeccable.’ Visit Grace and Charm today.
Have an etiquette or image question email Walethia at:  info@graceandcharm.com.
Direct number 1- 810-334-5427 or 1-866-610-3746.
Connect with me?  I’m only a click away.

Like my Facebook fan page
Join Business and Career Etiquette
Connect on LinkedIn
Twitter:  @graceandcharm2
You Tube:  Grace and Charm Success Channel

• Have you ever wondered which water glass was yours?
• Do you get nervous when meeting new people?
• Want to connect with the movers and the shakers?

Now you can have the inside secrets of the wealthy at your command. For one day only I’m offering my most popular book, Women Who Win Business Etiquette that Leads to Triumph in Life and Business for only $4.98!

Take advantage of this opportunity to learn how to design and develop a brand that is unique, creditable and marketable.

Don’t miss our special 1 day only deal on 12/14 – Save 50%! http://payv.me/t5SyrM
One day only December 14, 2011. My gift to you.

Walethia helps you build a new kind of wealth, “Social Capital” by equipping
professionals and other service providers  with training in
proper  business decorum and protocol’s in a step by step system that is  specific to
getting results.  Now you can position yourself to never miss an opportunity due to
fear, indecision, doubt, or lack of confidence.
Learn  how you can move from ‘Invisible to Impeccable’, visit Grace and Charm
today. Have an etiquette/image question email Walethia at:  info@graceandcharm.com,
direct number 1- 810-334-5427 or 1-866-610-3746.

Want to connect with me?  I’m only a click away.

Like my Facebook fan page:   http://www.facebook.com/graceandcharm
Join Business and Career Etiquette:  http://www.facebook.com/groups/graceandcharm/
Connect on LinkedIn:  http://www.linkedin.com/in/graceandcharm
Twitter:  @graceandcharm2
You Tube:  Grace and Charm Success Channel
Have an etiquette or image related question?  http://graceandcharm.youcanbook.me

Now booking Dining Tutorials and other Etiquette Talks for February and March 2012.  If you are interested in having an etiquette speaker for your business, organization or college, please contact: walethia@graceandcharm.com

Grace and Charm Insights:

• Develop the habit of continually thinking about how you are positioned in the hearts and minds of your clients.

• Make sure your online presence is professional. Many times a potential client will search for you online. Be careful of what you post on your profiles and whom you connect with online.

• While you may think people do not care, those who are genuinely interested in you are silently watching your every move. This includes your online presence such as every post and photo and they will judge you accordingly.

• Your business image should reflect your abilities, values, goals, and business mission.

• Investing in your professional image is investing in your future success.

• Know that a good physical appearance is important to every aspect of your lifestyle.

• Remember the key words that are often neglected in business conversation: Please, Thank You, What Can I Do For You, and Well done.

• Be honest about what you can do and cannot do.  If something has gone wrong, be honest and upfront, immediately.

• Your smile is 60% of your image.

• Time for an assessment:  Does your image reflect your brand?  Yes, you are the brand, not your logo!  When was the last time your inventoried your wardrobe, updated your hair style, and eye glasses?  When was your last physical?  How about your weight?  After you make your billions, don’t you want to be around to enjoy it?

Don’t let the lack of social skills sabotage your success.  It is easy if you remember the fundamentals. Contact Grace and Charm today. www.graceandcharm.com
Walethia helps you build a new kind of wealth, “Social Capital” by equipping
 professional and other service providers  with training in
 proper  business decorum and protocol’s in a step by step system that is  specific to 
getting results.  Now you can position yourself to never miss an opportunity due to 
fear, indecision, doubt, or lack of confidence.
 Learn  how you can move from ‘Invisible to Impeccable’, visit Grace and Charm today. Have an etiquette/image question email Walethia at:  info@graceandcharm.com, 
direct number 1- 810-334-5427 or 1-866-610-3746.

 Want to connect with me?  I’m only a click away.

 Like my Facebook fan page:   http://www.facebook.com/graceandcharm . Join Business and Career Etiquette Connect on LinkedIn. Twitter: @graceandcharm2 You Tube: Grace and Charm Success Channel

Madam CEO: How to Think and Act Like a Chief Executive has released internationally. This powerful book contains 25 chapters including “Building an Empire When Your Body is Going to Ruin, Influencing with Authenticity, Face the Fear and Do it Anyway!, Positive Self-Talk in Times of Crisis and Stress, Being the Boss in a Non-Traditional World, Conflict Resolution: Leaders Learn to Rise Above the Drama,  A View From the Top, Work-Life Balance is a Myth: Learning to Live the Plum Life, Preparing Young Women to be Professionally Poised and Polished, Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Negative Thinking, Getting to the Very Top, Boost Your Self-Esteem 10 Ways!, Live Your Values, The World is a Stage! The Importance of a Professional Image, Emotional Intelligence: Lead From the Inside Out,  Business is Personal: Seven Essential Lessons From an Entrepreneurial Life, Believe in Yourself! Have a Can-Do Attitude, Essential Business Etiquette for Today’s High Achieving CEO, Find Your Balance, Find  Your Brand: The Three Essentials, Women-Sex- and Race at Work, Life Balance: Thinking Outside the Box Decision Making, Ten Deadly Mistakes That Can Hold You Back, Purpose -Passion & Ability, Finding Your Voice, and Strategic Thinking.

Twenty-five international coaches, consultants, speakers and experts from the U.K., Hong Kong, New Zealand, Zambia, Romania, Canada, Australia, the Czech Republic, and the United States have co-authored this powerful anthology.

Media may contact:
Walethia Aquil
Email: walethia@graceandcharm.com
Web address: www.graceandcharm.com

Retail price: $19.95