Business Etiquette & Leadership Development Programs for Universities
University Etiquette
DINING ETIQUETTE
It’s not just dinner…it’s business. Second job interviews are routinely conducted over a meal in order to observe the interviewee’s comfort level in social situations. A relationship can be built, or a job lost, over a simple spaghetti dinner. Are you prepared?
VIEW TOPICS
- Preparation Prior to the Meal
- Best Job Interview Menu Choices
- Foods to Avoid
- Host & Guest Duties
- Ordering Liquor – Do’s & Don’ts
- Place Setting Etiquette
- Napkin Knowledge
- Excusing Oneself from the Table
- Coughs, Sneezes & Other Awkward Moments
- The Toast – When, How & to Whom
- How to Accept a Toast
- Difficult to Eat Food Etiquette
- Handling Accidents
- Unusual Menu Terms
- Handling the Valet, Coat Check & Other Services
- Dining Conversation
- Paying the Bill
- Tipping Etiquette
- And more…
NETWORKING & CORPORATE COMMUNICATION SKILLS
The mere thought of making conversation with a stranger is enough to make most people break out in a sweat. Companies value individuals that can communicate effectively and network in social and business venues. If you want the job, it takes the ability to convince another person that you’ve got what it takes to make a favorable impression on clients, coworkers and the community.
VIEW TOPICS
- Making a Memorable Entrance
- A Powerful First Impression
- Conversation Skill Basics
- Areas of the Room to Avoid
- Breaking Into an Existing Conversation
- Business Card Etiquette
- Excusing Oneself from a Conversation
- Technology/Cell Phone Courtesy
- Social Media Intelligence
- Navigating the Buffet Table
- And more…
PROFESSIONAL IMAGE
A strong resume is not the only thing that makes a powerful impression on an employer. Professional clothing speaks volumes about how a job candidate, or a new hire, prefers to be seen and evaluated.
VIEW TOPICS
- Job Interview Attire – Appropriate Choices
- Casual vs Corporate Work Wear
- Men’s & Women’s Wardrobe Essentials
- Accessories & Other Important Details
- Proper Cut & Fit
- Shoes, Socks & Important Details
- Do’s & Don’ts
- And more…
USEFUL TIPS
From internships to interviews, here are some useful tips to help you navigate your college years.
Testimonials from Universities
Rice University
Nicole Van Den Heuvel, Director
Center for Career Development
“Diane continuously delivers serious content with energetic wit. She knows how to captivate an audience and keep them engaged. Her no-nonsense feedback charming manner, and “tell it like it is” approach is fresh, relatable and authentic. She deeply cares about empowering others and inspires them to do the same. Her tips are always current, practical, and timeless and she is “the real deal.”
Trinity University
Dr. Danny Anderson
President
“We live with daily uncertainties and yearn for foundational civilities that enhance professionalism and build self-confidence. Fortunately, there is Diane Gottsman who eliminates our doubts and brings poise to our chaotic lives. Diane is sharp, savvy, smart and leading the way to clarity in a time of ever-increasing confusion. We all can benefit from her wisdom and advice.”
University of North Texas
Dr. Marilyn Wiley, Dean of the College of Business
Business Leadership Building
“Our goal is for all of our students to be polished professionals when they enter the corporate world. As speaker Diane Gottsman repeated, business meals are not about the food. They’re about presenting your best self to employers and customers over a meal. I’m confident the students who attended will be well-prepared for every dining situation.”
Sam Houston State University
Vinessa M. Mundorff, M.A., Associate Director
Career Services
“Diane Gottsman has been presenting our Annual Etiquette Dinner for the past 12 years and each year is better than the last. We routinely have standing room only based on the importance of the topic, as well as Diane’s engaging demeanor coupled with her interesting wealth of knowledge. She knows how to command a room and our students routinely rate her as top notch. Diane’s reputation is exemplary and we are honored to have her back each year. She truly provides a great service for our students at Sam Houston State University.”
The University of Texas at San Antonio
Nancy Scott Jones, Associate Director, Employer Relations
College of Business | Center for Student Professional Development
“Transforming business students into business professionals is our goal. Diane Gottsman recently told 400 students in our Career Action Program that if you think “manners don’t matter in business, try talking with your mouth full.” Our students quickly learned Diane Gottsman means business, especially when she emphasized the finer points of professional dining. The students came away more confident and with a clear understanding of how executive etiquette can open doors in any situation. Diane’s information is timely and her delivery commands attention and gets it!”
Southwestern University
Alexandra F. C. Anderson, MA, MED, Associate Director
Center for Career and Professional Development
“Diane Gottsman has been a fantastic long-time partner for Southwestern University for the past 18 years. Her engaging and dynamic personality, coupled with her vast knowledge and experience when it comes to dining and networking etiquette make our annual event a perennial favorite. You will advance your professional development and have fun when you work with Diane.”