Odds & Ends on Business Event Etiquette

Here are some random tips I've picked up over the years on appropriate behaviors and courtesies when attending a business function:

• Have your business card in an easy to reach location: If someone asks for a business card and you have to dig around your pockets or purse to find one, what you are actually communicating is, "I didn't anticipate meeting anyone I'd want to know." Later when they look at the dog-eared card you finally produced they will be reminded again....
• Keep your right hand out of your pocket: Shaking a clammy or sweaty hand is just no fun for the other person.
• When looking at someone look them in THE eye: It is rather unsettling to talk to a person when their eyes are darting back and forth from left to right. Pick one eye to look at. I know this one sounds weird but try it with a friend and see how long before they ask, "are you on something?!"
• When talking with someone use his/her name in your conversation: People like to hear their own name! It is familiar, comforting and a signal that you really care about talking to him/her.
• Use small words and speak slowly: Especially if the event is large and there is a lot of background noise. Amazingly , people like to hear and understand what someone is saying to them.
• Always thank the host(s): This simple yet widely overlooked courtesy will guarantee a return invitation and favored treatment.

Proper business etiquette is more than just knowing which fork to use or which water glass to drink from. These were just a few, random ways to conduct myself at a business event that I hope you honor when you are at yours....