How Do You React When Your Company Offers You Professional Development Training?

By Juanita Ecker

I was recently hired by a Fortune 500 company to do one-on-one coaching for two individuals. One needed to brush up on his telephone skills; the other needed help with tradeshow etiquette as well as rapport building and conversation skills. They were relatively in the same boat, but it surprised me how different their reactions were to the prospect of training.

The first individual was excited about working with me and was eager to learn new material that he could use to further his career. The second individual, however, told me she didn’t need the coaching and went back to the HR manager to ask if she could take a “live” session instead of working with me over the telephone.

What impact do you think these employees’ actions and attitudes will have on their careers with this company? In my opinion, the second employee made a career-inhibiting move. When a company has hired an outside consultant to work with you, they must think you need some help, but they are willing to stick with you and foot the bill for further training. They are investing in your future with the company. When you refuse it, you diminish your chances for career advancement.

Learn to Say “No” Nicely

By Juanita Ecker

I conducted a dining etiquette session for a private university last year. They were very pleased with the program that I gave to the students, and the contact person told me he was definitely interested in having me back for 2010. When it came time to follow up with him, I sent an e-mail and never heard back. A few days went by and I left a voice message. He never responded. Another week went by and I left a third message. Still no response! Instead of e-mailing me back and telling me why they weren’t doing the program this year (budget cuts, etc.) or that they were using another vendor instead, the contact person did absolutely nothing. Simply ignoring my communications is not very polite and shows me that this person is not very respectful towards others.

I find this tactic very common. People assume if I just “ignore that person” who is contacting me, they will go away. Instead, if you want to be viewed as someone who is a polished professional, learn how to say “no” in a tactful and diplomatic way. Read on for some pointers.

Be honest if you need more time. If you are not ready to make a decision or do not immediately have an answer for someone, let them know that. It’s fine to say, “We are still reviewing our plans for this year” or “Can you follow up with us in a month?” That way the person knows you got their e-mail and have at least considered the pitch, and it is now up to them to follow up.

Don’t waste time. If the answer if a definite “no,” respond as soon as possible. Don’t leave a person hanging. This way they can move on to other opportunities.

Speaker Phone Etiquette

By Juanita Ecker

A friend of mine recently called a client to discuss a project. The client asked if she could put my friend on speaker phone. As soon as he agreed, she then launched into a lecture about all of the things she was unhappy about with the project. There were other people in the room with her, and my friend felt like he was under attack. Did she really need to put him on speaker phone to chew him out? Wouldn’t a private conversation have been more appropriate?

Using the speaker phone function can make our work life easier, freeing us to take notes, multi-task, or bring other people in on the conversation. However, it’s important to use it wisely so that you don’t ruffle other people’s feathers. Here are a few tips on proper etiquette:

Always ask permission before you put someone on speaker phone. Using speaker phone without getting the green light first is a surefire way to invite trouble, especially if there are other people in the room. I’ve heard several horror stories of people being conferenced in and saying something inappropriate or confidential because they didn’t realize others were listening. Always ask first!

Introduce everyone who is listening to the call. If you are sitting in a conference room full of colleagues, alert your caller and identify the other people with you. Say, “Hi Jim, I’m here with Ted, Linda, and Barry. Is it okay if we switch to speaker phone?” Identify yourself when you make a remark, as the caller may not recognize your voice from the others.