Business Meals

• Since business dinners and lunches are part of the professional world, many questions arise concerning the appropriate protocol to observe during them. One issue that often arises is whether or not it is appropriate to consume alcohol at such an affair. The answer varies, but it is generally acceptable to have one drink if you are dining with a colleague. When you are with a client, it may not be wise to imbibe, even if the client chooses to do so.
  
  

Thank-Yous

• Are thank you notes and letters are still an important business protocol? The answer to this question is yes, and you need to send them promptly, particularly after you see a potential employer for a job interview. Part of the thank-you should reiterate why you are the best candidate for the job, as well as how interested you are in working for the company. Additionally, thank clients for their business throughout the year by sending thank-you notes (and even small gifts) around the holidays. This helps them remember both you and your business favorably.
  
  

Cross-Cultural Etiquette

• In an international business community, it is not enough to do business domestically; in order to stay competitive, you need to think globally. This often means interacting with individuals whose cultural etiquette and protocols are different than yours. A question that sometimes comes up in these cases is: what can you do in order to ensure a polite and successful transaction? In order to avoid giving offense or a misunderstanding, research the manners and culture of the home country of the business with which you are doing business before you interact. You never know when a misinterpreted word or gesture might lose you an important contract.
  
  

Problems

• If you're having a problem with someone at work, you may ask yourself "Who should I go to to solve this problem?" The answer, generally, is that you begin with the person of least authority and work your way up. For instance, if you have a problem with a colleague that you cannot solve, speak to your supervisor. If the supervisor cannot help, speak to her boss; use this approach with caution, however, since your immediate supervisor may take offense that you went above her head. If all else fails, take your issue to your company's human resources department.