Guest Blog Post by Karen Hickman — Professionalism and Contemporary Medical Attire
What is the appropriate dress for the staff and physicians in offices and hospitals today?
Guest Blog Post by Jay Remer, “The Etiquette Guy” – The Second Interview
It is my pleasure to welcome my well respected Canadian colleague Jay Remer, also known as “Etiquette Guy.” Jay offices in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada. Today, Jay shares his thoughts with us on tips for Second Interviews: Preparing for a first interview for employment, college placement, or a position on a board of directors [...]
Highlights of Visiting Cuba with the Austin Chamber of Commerce
Our experience in Cuba was unique and inspiring. The settings were diverse – from Old Havana to colonial Cienfuegos -- and we experienced it all through the Cuban people themselves. We visited with Cuban artists, musicians, historians and more about their lives, work, culture and traditions. 1. Old Havana: A true highlight of Cuba was our guided [...]
Sharon Schweitzer’s 8 International Travel Tips
As a road warrior who has clocked something like two million miles of business travel over the past twenty years, experience has taught me that international travel is neither glamorous nor for the faint of heart. Delays, crowds, and unappetizing food are all outside of our control. But we don’t have to let unexpected surprises [...]
Meeting and Greeting in China
The City of Beijing has changed immeasurably. The days of the bicycle are long gone, replaced by considerably more automobiles than was the case when I last visited China in 1989. My second trip to the Great Wall was as enjoyable as the first. Construction on the 2,480-mile long fortifications began in the 5th century [...]
Sharon Schweitzer Returns to China
China is a country with 5,000 years of rich history and culture. It also offers a varied cuisine comprising of eight culinary traditions, each with their distinctive approaches and dishes: Anhui – spicy & salty, with liberal use of local produce like bamboo and mushrooms. Guangdong – includes dim sum, which means “touch your heart” [...]
Wine Whisperers: Building a Relationship with a Sommelier
October is Texas Wine Month! In honor of this occasion, Drew Hendricks of the Texas Sommeliers Association shared his insight with me for my recent article in NSide Austin Magazine. The article, "Wine Whisperers," offers Drew's take on why it's a good idea to get to know the sommelier at your favorite restaurant. Read the [...]
Tips for Concierge and Guest Services Professionals during Formula One Weekend
As our city's finest service professionals prepare for what will likely be the biggest international event Austin has ever seen -- the Formula One race, November 16-18 - I was honored to be asked to offer some international protocol and etiquette tips on behalf of the Austin Concierge and Guest Services Association. Here are some of [...]
Bridging the Cultural Divide with International Customers (Part 3)
It was such a pleasure wrapping up my involvement with the Formula 1 preparation sessions at City Hall on September 4. It is difficult to prepare for such a large inaugural event, but I have faith in those who attended the sessions - they now have plenty of tools to ensure that their guests feel [...]
Thank You for Writing a Thank You Note! 4 Tips
Today I received a lovely ‘Thank You’ note from one of my clients.