Can We Revive Civility?

“I just want to get things done. If people get unhappy with the way I run things around here, so be it.” People who are too focused only on the accomplishment of their goals and forget that they are part of a team often fall into a trap called incivility. It is the “success at all costs” syndrome that has wreaked havoc in many workplaces worldwide, because of the high incidence of rudeness that it has produced in people.

We don’t have to tolerate and perpetuate incivility in the workplace or elsewhere.  There are numerous ways by which we can start influencing others to demonstrate civility. These are simple, easy-to-do things that we inadvertently neglect:

Smile. Yes, even at strangers.  It is one of the most uplifting and affirming forms of human contact. A radiant smile can go a long way in easing a person’s day.

Give way. Crowded elevators, long queues in theaters and supermarkets, and traffic congestion are just some of the windows of opportunity for us to practice civility. By allowing others with urgent needs to get ahead of us in certain situations, we are setting a whole new standard of behavior in motion.

Observe other people’s private time and space. Control the urge to engage people in long-winded conversations, especially if they are engaged in activities like reading, writing or in deep thought.

Expressions of civility. Saying thank you, my pleasure, please, I beg your pardon, or I apologize, will create feelings of unity and teamwork in any setting.

 The 30-second spot. Introduce yourself with aplomb within 20-30 seconds of meeting people for the first time. This will put people at ease and is a sure indicator of your self-confidence, friendliness, and approachability.

We can start a “ripple effect” of caring concern for other people which will be felt and appreciated by the “surprised recipients” and get passed on to many others in return.

I truly believe that we have the power to revive civility. 

How about testing it now?

Photos from:

http://www.stock-photos-free.com

http://www.freedigitalphotos.net

Ways to Make Men Look Great!

Men are becoming more aware of their appearance and are spending more time and money in making sure that they look their best at all times.

Let’s review some simple ways of bringing out the best in men:

Color Assessment – The first thing that people notice is the color of your shirt and coat.

If you are wearing your best colors, your face will glow. Do you remember the times when you were complimented for your looks? What colors were you wearing then? What colors make you happy and comfortable?

You can experiment by holding colored shirts under your face. Ask a friend or family member which colors make your eyes and skin tone look brighter.

You can also look at a mirror and see for yourself.

Style – In buying a shirt, it is important to consider the collar size and shape. If you will have it custom made by a tailor, these details will help to balance your look.

• Thin face – medium width collar will make it appear fuller
• Round face – longer, thinner collar slims the face
• Long neck – raised collar minimizes it
• Short neck – lowered collar lengthens it 

Patterns or Solids – Solid is best for formal business wear, while patterns can add interest and vibrancy to a shirt. For the corporate environment, it is safer to stay away from prints of any kind. For casual or social events, checks or stripes which are thin and crisp will be acceptable for most professions. The wider and brighter they are, the more sporty you will appear.

Veer away from geometric designs, florals and pictures of any kind unless you are attending a Hawaiian party. 

Finally, take time out to do a fitting checklist: 

Collar – measure the lower part of your neck at the point where the collar button rests 

Cuffs and sleeves – cuffs should extend only a half inch below your jacket sleeves, while both arms should be measured, in case one is longer than the other. 

Shoulders – custom made measurement will ensure the best fit 

Torso – slightly loose line is most comfortable and will not cause extra bulk to show. 

When you find a shirt that fits you well and you really like, buy two or three, so that you will always have your favorite shirt ready to wear when you need it. 

Photos from: 
http://www.eu.forzieri.com/usa/shirtmaker.asp?l=usa&c=ita 
http://knol.google.com/k/antonio-centeno/men-s-shirt-collars/27cl1pj4s2ovi/4 
http://brooksbrothers.com 

How to Soothe Ruffled Feathers

Do you realize that mending fences and winning back unhappy or angry customers take much more than just a text, or an email apology?

Many customer service providers make the mistake of relying on the ubiquitous hi-tech tools like the cell phone and computers to send their regrets over mistakes and protocol transgressions.  The fact is, people will react more positively to a person that they can interact with.  Seeing a person who will apologize with contrite eyes and a gentle voice is a hundred times more effective than just reading a text or an email.

In some cases, a formal letter of apology with a symbolic atonement will produce stunningly great results. A case in point is the incident which involved one of my staff members who left an important message to the wrong person and did not reach a group of executives on time.  The group of executives went to the venue of our scheduled seminar on the date scheduled only to be told that it was rescheduled due to the unavailability of our Australian speaker.  

I took full responsibility for this carelessness and wrote the CEO of the organization with my deep regrets and enclosed a book and a DVD of our speaker for his corporation’s use.  The CEO responded warmly and thanked me sincerely and promised to send his people to our future seminars.

Just take the bull by the horns and own up to your mistakes and offer more than a lame “I’m sorry.”