Author Joyce Oroz: Don't Burp in the Board Room ........Rosalinda Randall

Today I want to share Rosalinda's blog with you, not because I'm lazy (well, maybe) but because she has such good advice. Don't mess with Rosalinda, just read her answers to life's predicaments.

Her new book, "Don't Burp in the Board Room" is excellent! Here is Rosalinda:

April 2015

Weddings, Work & Wine

Weddings:
Q: My fiancé and I are getting married this year. Since we've been living together for a few years, we don't want gifts; we'd prefer cash. How can we make that clear to our guests without actually printing it on our invitations?

A: First of all, I'm glad to hear that you won't be including "cash only" on the invitations. If you've established a wedding website, there are understated ways of making that suggestion. Keep in mind that in the minds of many, even suggesting a "cash gift" is considered tacky. With that said, it would soften the cash request if you also included a registry of desired gifts. By the way, a guest can choose to ignore all requests and give you a gift from the heart.

Q: We don't want children at our wedding. I've been told that we should not include that in the invitation. How will people be informed?

A: The way to let your guests know who is invited and who is not, is how you address the envelope. Only the names of those you want present should appear. If parents submit the RSVP writing in little Tommy and little Lily's names, a calm and gracious phone call or email if it is your preference, will be necessary. Simply explain that the venue does not accommodate children. They'll have to decide whether to attend or not.

Work:
Q: I was in the lunchroom, when I overheard a confidential conversation which included disturbing information; there will be lay-offs next month. I was seated around the corner where my boss and CEO apparently did not see me. Since I overheard it, is it okay for me to ask my boss if my name is on the lay-off list?

A: Oh my. When you hear a confidential-sounding conversation that you are not supposed to be a part of, immediately clear your throat, drop something, stand up; anything to call attention to your presence and stop the conversation! However, if you did not think to take that course, you must not circulate or scandalize what you overheard. It was not meant for you to know. Now, if you have an uncontrollable urge to share it, clarify or discuss the matter, go to the source. Apologize for overhearing it (yes, even if it wasn't your fault) and assure them that you will maintain confidentiality (aka: integrity). They may or may not wish to discuss it with you.

Wine:
Q: I enjoy trying new wines, however, not the usual ones that most people seem to buy, prefer, and rave about. I like the sweet wines; the fruity, less expensive brands. From time to time, a comment about my preference and lack of discernment is tossed my way. How should I respond without being rude?

A: You couldn't be any more rude than those commenting about your preference. Options: With a smile and a nod, you can choose to ignore it. Or, you can charmingly reply, "It's a good thing there's something for everyone."; "Cheers, anyway."; "It's just what I prefer. Cheers."; "Don't knock it until you've tried it." Something along these lines.

Remember to keep it civil, say it tactfully and infuse a splash of humor.

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ETIQUETTE IS AN ATTITUDE.

Best regards,