Dear Colleague,

Every company has rules and regulations, whether written or unwritten. Often those rules govern employees’ actions and affect how a company presents itself to the public. Following regulations will obviously keep everything running smoothly – but did you know that not following protocol can hurt your profits?

It’s true. Etiquette isn’t just about using the right fork or knowing how to RSVP. In business, etiquette can be just as important as the wording in a contract or your treatment of a key client. Courtesy still goes a long way, and if you stand out because of your professionalism, you could find yourself receiving more than just a grateful smile.

How much do you know about office etiquette? Which behaviors you should or shouldn’t practice? Your co-workers may bug you – but how do you know you’re not bugging them, too?

Did you know that…

• More than 30% of people participating in a survey about office pet peeves named “people talking loudly” as one of their biggest?
• The way you decorate your office can speak volumes about who you are?
• More than a third of office workers have considered switching jobs because of their co-workers’ irritating habits?
• A good handshake can earn you a job?

Business Protocol Handbook helps you navigate the world of etiquette, giving you guidance in 14 situations you could likely find yourself in at work. Whether you’re interacting with your boss, a difficult co-worker or an angry client, you need to know what to do... and what not to do.

Business Protocol Handbook provides solutions to many of the everyday situations facing the modern worker. Do you know what to say to a co-worker who has just been laid off? What about a boss whose zipper is down? What are the guidelines with regard to wedding, baby shower and retirement party invitations? And what’s the best way to handle office donations?

You’ll learn:

• The importance of a handshake, and how to deliver one
• The right and wrong times for small talk with a client
• Three tips for composing business e-mails
• How to treat a VIP in your office
• How to show appreciation
• Five rules to keep in mind at a business lunch
• How to deal with difficult callers
• The most offensive thing an employee can do in the office
• And much more!

You’ll also get answers to six frequently asked questions from Letitia Baldrige, who’s considered “America’s foremost authority on manners.” Her dozens of books on manners, design and entertainment and her columns in the Administrative Professional Today newsletter make her a terrific source for solutions to workplace dilemmas.

Unsure how to react when something embarrassing or awkward happens? Business Protocol Handbook also contains guidance on sticky situations from Peter Post, author of The Etiquette Advantage in Business and great-grandson of etiquette guru Emily Post.

Not only can you use Business Protocol Handbook to brush up on office etiquette, you can also use it to get ahead. Using the tips the handbook provides, you can impress clients and land those deals that might have passed you by if you hadn’t gone that extra mile. Professional courtesy is always appreciated – and it can even make people want to do business with you.

Table of Contents
   Introduction
   1. Cubicle etiquette: 8 close-quarters rules
   2. ‘Casual dress’ etiquette: Demystify your event’s dress codes
   3. How to finesse awkward, embarrassing situations
   4. Handshake etiquette: Setting the stage for instant rapport
   5. Job etiquette when a co-worker gets the pink slip
   6. Guest etiquette: Roll out the red carpet for visitors
   7. Business phone etiquette: Soothe angry callers
   8. Kitchen faux pas: Who ate my yogurt?
   9. Office donations: Keep it low-key when passing the hat
 10. Business letter etiquette: The art of the personal note
 11. Business dining etiquette: 5 rules
 12. Office decorations: Balance personal and professional image
 13. Party etiquette: Special occasions with co-workers
 14. Etiquette questions: Expert advice from Letitia Baldrige

Don’t miss out on outstanding business opportunities just because you’re unclear on business protocol. Use Business Protocol Handbook as an etiquette class and never be at a loss for words or actions again. When a tricky situation arises, you’ll know how to handle it.

Sincerely,



Phillip A. Ash
Publisher

P.S. Remember, there’s absolutely no risk. If you don’t see how you can benefit from tips on business protocol, we’ll refund your entire purchase price – no questions asked – and you’ll have no further obligation.

P.P.S. If you’re going to stand out, it should be in a positive way, not a negative one. Be remembered for your professionalism – and make a lasting impression.