Business manners and business etiquette seem to be missing today. I am talking about the right way to do business - the way that had been the norm when I was younger. For some reason, it's now abnormal.
When a person calls me and they leave a message, return the call. I actually pick up my cell, dial the whole seven-digit number and speak to the caller.
I know it sounds like a major undertaking for just one man, but through practice and endurance training I have learned to return phone calls.
Granted, I had to work my way to it, but I'm happy to say I am now a champion of returning calls and e-mails. This is the real shocking part. I even return phone calls if it's bad news.
For instance, if I have 10 people apply for a position and we only need one individual, I call each of those nine other applicants and I take that five-minute conversation to coach and mentor.
Gently correcting some of the "areas of improvement" and complimenting them on some of their strengths.
It's a lot of work, and it is not fun. But it is the right thing to do. I guess now that we're sharing our secrets, I'll let you in on another one: I send out thank-you notes.
If someone gives me the time of day, I will never be too busy to jot down a line or two thanking them.
The monumental part is that whole stamp thing. With my first book, I called most of the CEOs of the Fortune 1000 companies.
The word "Toast," meaning a wish of good health, started in ancient Rome, where a piece of toasted bread was dropped into wine.
"What a great breakfast combo." - Sonny
