May 28, 2013 • Volume 4, Issue 11 • ISSN: 2154-3240

In This Issue

♦	Feature Article: Decency at Work
♦	Ask Amanda: Do I have to attend my boss’s summer party?
♦	Practical Tips: Business Etiquette

Decency at Work

One casualty of our over-stimulated, stressed-out times is basic decency toward others. There is often so much pressure to achieve our work goals that we don’t consider how we interact—and what our actions lead others to conclude about us. It’s all about getting things done.

How often have you been asked, “How are you?” knowing that the other person didn’t even register your response? Or been in a check-out line where the cashier didn’t acknowledge you other than to tell you the amount owed? Or were speaking with someone when their phone rang and they took it out and checked it without batting an eye? Do you to want to work with people who treat others this way?
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	Getting started is better than being ready.

Practical Tips:
Business Etiquette

Avoid work-related faux pas by being aware of the messages you’re sending.

Be present.
Stay engaged, attentive, and focused instead of constantly checking your phone or email. Where you put your attention sends a message to others.

Debrief in confidence.
Avoid the temptation to rehash a meeting on the way back to your office. You never know who is listening or what conclusions they’ll draw.
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I'm relatively new to my company. Every summer the head of our group has a party at her Shore house. I'd rather spend my free time with my friends. Do I have to go? D.N., Plainsboro, NJ

In a word, yes. Your absence will be construed as indifference—or worse. Office outings are great for getting to know—and becoming known by—your coworkers as an actual person and not just someone they have to deal with at the office.
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About Us: Our Corporate Life LLC (OCL) is a company that offers a new system for reducing unnecessary workplace suffering caused by the organizational, interpersonal, and ethical issues of our time. It is founded on the belief that adhering to core human values and achieving business success are always compatible. Working with both companies and individuals, OCL helps create solutions that enable corporate employees at every level to optimize profits while enabling them to thrive in the corporate environment. OCL was founded by Amanda Mitchell to help meet the needs of people working in corporate America during this transformative moment in our nation's history. The OCL system reflects her experience and insight gained from a 20–year corporate career working with Fortune 500 companies, and as an executive coach to senior–level corporate executives.