Restaurant manners in business
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Here is a great tip on restaurant etiquette!
When making reservations to entertain a client – it doesn’t look good to show up at a great restaurant with business associate and not have made reservations to be there. If someone’s meal comes before you, it’s polite to wait until everyone is served — or you could graciously encourage then to begin. Napkins go on laps — water and drinks on the right, napkins on left. Avoid drinking alcohol — especially at lunch — long gone are the two martini lunches. It may only be appropriate at a reception or an event of that nature, but never over indulge under any circumstances.
Are you minding your gift-giving manners?
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Monday Business Manners
Gift Giving in Business
Gifts are most always appreciated in our culture and others. There are companies that have gift giving policies and can not accept a gift of more than a certain dollar amount, so be sure you’re in accordance with their policies so as not to offend or break their gift-giving rules. If you can take the time over conversations to know more about who your clients are as people and individuals, what their interests are, etc., it is easy to recognize appropriate and less costly gifts as you see things that would be appropriate and show your thoughtfulness to them.
Over giving can be perceived to be an attempt to “buy” their loyalty, which is never a good thing. Ideally, there should be a balance of what you give them and how frequently so gifts aren’t construed as being anything more than a thoughtful gesture that acknowledges them personally. To learn about the best deals this holiday season (and we think always), check out last week’s post “The Top 6 sites to get the best deals”.
The Pocket Video Camera – Flip vs. Kodak vs. Vado
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Unfortunately for me, but fortunately for you, I’ve had the lovely opportunity to own and operate all three mini pocket video cameras.
First off, if you’re not already using video in your marketing, please stop what you’re doing and get yourself a camera. Google and video are like BFF’s and many of your customers and prospects are more likely to watch video than read an article. I believe in a healthy balance of both. (Just look at my blog)
Now, for the moment of truth…which camera takes all?
Let’s start with this point – no matter what camera you decide on, ALWAYS get HD (high def).
Flip HD: Probably the most popular of the three, but not necessarily the best. The Flip HD camera has a small screen for viewing and taking footage. While easy to use, the quality of the footage is not as good as its two competitors. Plus, it will only allow you to record 60 minutes of footage at once before you have to whip out your computer, unload and can get back to shooting. (Price: $158-$199). Perfect for kids or college students.
Kodak HD: Kodak is The Flip’s biggest competitor, but not not our favorite of the three cameras either. It doesn’t seem to be “built to last” and became easily rattled as I transported in my purse. The microphone always was less than acceptable, which may be why Kodak heavily pushes an external plug-in mic as an accessory. It has a larger viewing screen and it definitely a step up from the Flip HD. (Price: $179-$199)
Vado HD: Easy to use and built with a great internal mic, the Vado HD is our top pic. I needed something a little more durable and long-lasting. It takes great footage, is especially easy to use, has high resolution, and can record longer than its competitors. It’s easily compatible with a Mac or PC and intuitive to use. Our top pic for business owners and entrepreneurs looking to utilize video in their marketing strategies. (Price: $129-$199)
Top 6 sites to get the best deals on price:
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Who doesn’t love a great deal? 
To make your shopping easier for you this year, we’ve taken the guess work out of finding the best price. Here are the absolute best sites of the year to find excellent deals:
1. Amazon.com – compare prices on everything from books to sports goods to electronics.
2. Ebay.com – you can find ANYTHING on ebay.
3. ideeli.com – a newly launched free membership site to tells you about all of the latest fashion deals with tons of giveaways.
4. Bestbuy.com – Everything electronics and they currently have 99 cent shipping!
5. Slickdeals.net – user-generated deal sharing site.
6. Etsy.com – Our favorite place to find great handmade gifts. You can spend HOURS on this site!
Dressing to land the deal!
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In this episode of Tuesdays with Nancy, we learn tips to dressing for ultimate success and how what you wear can affect whether or not you close the deal!
