Archive for the ‘Dos and don’ts’ Category

1.   Remember your posture and sit in a relaxed manner, whether you are at the conference room table or in someone’s living room.  Leave all nervous habits behind! No fidgeting, eye rolling, hair flipping, nail biting, or scratching!

2.   Make eye contact, smile and know how to converse and write correctly (using spell check!).  “Hello! How can I help you?” is a good start to any business conversation.

3.   Be on time for your appointments.  Five minutes early is even better.

4.   Acknowledge mistakes and apologize immediately, offering to correct the situation.

5.   Lead your younger colleagues and clients in a positive direction, allowing them to benefit from your wisdom and experience.

6.   Give and receive compliments easily.  A simple and genuine “Thank you, what a nice thing to say!” is the very best response to any compliment.

7.   Politely ask for help when you need it and remember to say thank you.

8.   Learn to say no graciously – and mean it.  For example, “Thank you, but I’m going to have to pass this time.”

9.   Be discreet about your personal life; nobody is interested.

10. No drama! Especially in public places. A mature and savvy business owner understands how to reduce stress and get an escalating situation under control.

1. Confirm your visits prior to leaving, with the pets’ names and dates of service in the subject line of an email.

2. Prompt payment is always appreciated.

3. Have extra keys made and make sure they work.

4. Shovel out a parking spot.

5. Leave lights on or on timers so the pet sitter is not walking into a dark home.

6. Leave updated instructions with any changes (eg, the painter will be here on Friday etc). Tell the pet sitter to help herself to water or cold drinks if possible.

7. Scoop your kitty litter prior to leaving.

8. Leave brushes, toys and treats in plain view so your pet sitter can you give your pet a little extra TLC.

9. Ask a neighbor, friend or family member to be on call in case of emergencies.  Pet sitters are human and get sick, have car accidents etc.

10. Leave a nice tip (in cash), especially during the holidays.