Have an etiquette question? Tweet me @dianegottsman or post on my Facebook page. You may just see your question answered in the near future!
Previous Ask the Etiquette Expert features:
The Etiquette of “No Worries”
A coworker and I are hoping for a little professional guidance regarding the use of “no worries” in the corporate world. It’s a phrase we have both found ourselves saying from time-to-time. Is it a gracious response or unintentionally unprofessional … [ Keep reading ]
I recently graduated from grad school and have accepted a position with a progressive firm. I would like some tips on how to update my college wardrobe without breaking the bank … [ Keep reading ]
Gift Giving Etiquette Among Friends
My birthday is coming up soon and many of my friends are asking me what I’d like for a present. How should I respond? This makes me feel a little awkward, telling them to buy me specific gifts. I don’t want to be pushy or make them feel like they have to spend a certain amount of money on me … [ Keep reading ]
How to Politely Decline a Donation Request
I own a small business, and it seems that lately I have been inundated with requests to donate to their favorite charity – which is not necessarily mine. With a designated dollar amount to work with, it is my policy instead to carefully select a charity every year and give to their cause … [ Keep reading ]
The Etiquette of Splitting the Bill
I have a tipping etiquette question regarding dining out with a good friend. When we meet for lunch, my preference is to tip at least 20%. She likes to double the tax instead (which brings the tip to around 16.5%). My problem is this: she prefers to pay her amount for the lunch but wants to put the entire bill on her credit card … [ Keep reading ]
Mother’s Day Etiquette for Stepdads
I am the mother of two children from a previous marriage (my husband and I don’t have any biological children together). We have been married for seven years and every May I feel hurt and rejected because he doesn’t even give me a card. I haven’t said anything because he has joked in the past that I’m not his mom. Shouldn’t he acknowledge me in some way since I am a mother and his wife? … [ Keep reading ]
Next Steps to Starting My Own Business
I recently came across an article of yours (How to Kickstart Your Career Out of a Standstill), and a lot of what you wrote really hit home with me. I have made the best of my current circumstances, understanding I am truly fortunate to have a job, not to mention being able to work alongside some wonderful people … [ Keep reading ]
Building Rapport With a New Boss
Dear Diane, I love the work that I do and have built wonderful relationships with my coworkers and clients over the past five years. Recently, our company’s longtime CEO, who was very involved in day-to-day operations and to whom I reported directly, made the transition into retirement. The leadership style of our new executive officer is the polar opposite of my former boss … [ Keep reading ]
Pets and Priorities
Dear Diane, As much as I enjoy spending time with a good friend, she is so attached to her Teacup Yorkie it has become the norm for him to accompany us wherever we go. I think little Heyward is darling, but he can also be quite demanding of her attention. She has no trouble bringing him into restaurants in her bag, despite the “no pets” rule, not to mention he is her guaranteed “plus-one” at cocktail parties and social events … [ Keep reading ]
Can I Retract a Wedding RSVP?
Dear Diane, A long-time neighbor’s daughter is getting married in April. The bride-to-be invited my husband and me to the wedding but did not invite our adult daughter. She also left out two other childhood friends from the same street where they all grew up and whose weddings she attended. Our families are all still very close and we are upset that the adult children have not … [ Keep reading ]
Office Angel Tree Collaboration
In the spirit of the holidays, a few colleagues and I approached our supervisor about participating in the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree program, purchasing gifts for local children whose families could use a little extra help this year. We’ve gotten the green light, but would love your advice on how to let the staff know in a way that will encourage participation should someone wish to be a part … [ Keep reading ]
Holiday Party Planning
This year brought many milestones for my husband and me, including our spring wedding and purchasing our first home together. I would love to host a small holiday gathering with the ladies in both of our families but need a few ideas before formalizing the plans. I’m hoping for a cozy and casual tone, and it would be great if there were something we could work on during the party. Also, I’m not ready to prepare a feast, but don’t necessarily want to organize a potluck either. How should I handle the menu? Thanks in advance for your suggestions! … [ Keep reading ]
How to Make a Good First Impression
I will be entering the workforce in just a few weeks and thanks to your etiquette session, feel better prepared for this new chapter in my life. My primary objective is to make a positive impression. I want to display a team-oriented attitude and keen eye for detail. Other than the basics (being punctual, conscientious and pulled together), what should my first two weeks on the job look like? … [ Keep reading ]
Job Interview Question Preparation
I’m preparing for an important job interview in the technology arena and am unsure of how to answer a question they will likely ask: “What are your five and 10-year goals?” … [ Keep reading ]
How to Negotiate a Salary
After lots of preparation and multiple interviews, I have been offered a position at a growing company in the Bay Area. I am elated at the opportunity and cannot wait to get started. There is just one problem: I am intimidated at the thought of negotiating my salary. When I hear friends talking about their search to find a good job, I often feel I should just be grateful to have this chance … [ Keep reading ]
Women’s Business Attire
I recently moved to a very hot climate for a position I accepted in a creative career field (advertising). I am finding that the dress code is much different than what I am accustomed to in an office setting … [ Keep reading ]
Unplugging from Technology on Summer Vacation
My family and I are taking a Fourth of July beach vacation and I’m already anticipating a technology struggle. I’d like to say our teens are the only ones who gravitate towards checking their mobile devices, but with busy careers, my husband and I can’t seem to stray too far off our own devices. A complete digital detox isn’t an option, but I’d like for my family to stay unplugged as much as possible during our short getaway. A tablet-free sunset is my goal! Any cell phone and technology tips I can pass along? … [ Keep reading ]
Father’s Day Gift Etiquette
My sons and I always give their dad a Father’s Day present, and of course, I send my father something special as well. However, I’m wondering if I should also be giving a small gift to … [ Keep reading ]
Preparing for a Business Internship
I’m enthusiastically preparing for my first summer internship and could use your guidance. I’m on a college budget but need to look polished and professional. I want to come across as competent and someone they’d love to have join their team in the near future, but have never worked in a corporate environment. What are your etiquette tips for an intern’s business attire? … [ Keep reading ]
Second Job Etiquette
As my wife and I work towards our dream of purchasing a home together, I’ve taken on a second job to help pay down our debt. I’d love your suggestions on the etiquette of having a second job … [ Keep reading ]
Team Building FAQs
I recently published a blog on The Benefits of Team Building in the Office. After sharing the many reasons that taking time for these types of activities is a smart investment, I wanted to answer a few FAQs regarding the etiquette of team building. Q: I’d like to put together a team building outing for my employees, but am on a limited budget. Do you have any suggestions for how to begin? … [ Keep reading ]
What to Pack for an Out-of-State Summer Wedding
I’ve been invited to a Summer wedding in another state and am having a hard time deciding what to bring for the occasion. The wedding and reception will be held at a botanical garden. Any suggestions on my packing list? … [ Keep reading ]
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas on a Budget
This is my first Mother’s Day as a new mom, giving me even more appreciation for the sacrifices my mother made to raise me. My question is this: how can I give her something meaningful on a modest budget? With a 6 month old and a part-time salary, finances are a lot tighter than they were last year. I appreciate any advice you can give me. Thanks! … [ Keep reading ]
How to Deal with a Negative Coworker
I share an office with someone who is stuck in a negative rut. She is unhappy in her personal life and burned out in her career. Needless to say, my entire day consists of listening to her rants and complaints … [ Keep reading ]
Graduation Party Planning
I’m hosting a graduation party for our son to celebrate him earning his degree and heading off to graduate school in the Fall. We want the atmosphere to be relaxed and are considering taking the festivities poolside to reflect the casual vibe … [ Keep reading ]