Includes bibliographical references and index.

Forgetting to stay one step ahead -- Impressions -- Tips for staying one step ahead -- Using body language improperly -- Nonverbal messages -- Tips for handshakes, eye contact, posture, appropriate arm and hand position -- Being sloppy with written and verbal correspondence -- Handwritten notes -- Examples of well-written correspondence -- Tips for writing -- Introductory phone calls -- Verbal correspondence verbal thank-you's -- Verbal acknowledgements -- Breaking the rules for introductions -- Self-introductions -- Tips for introductions -- Making small talk and networking inappropriately -- Preparation -- Body language while networking small talk do's and don'ts -- Tips on small talk and networking -- Forgetting names -- Importance of names -- Tips on remembering names -- You did what? the biggest mistakes professionals make -- Lacking technology etiquette -- What messages are you trying to send? -- Tips on e-mails, voice mails, conference calls, cell phones, pagers, faxing, video conferencing, pda's, computers -- Using inappropriate dining etiquette -- Manners -- Tips on seating arrangements, place settings, napkins, ordering, bread, silverware, pace, do's and don'ts, wine -- Gratuity guide -- Failing to follow the guidelines for professional dress -- Dress for where you want to be on -- The career ladder -- Tips for men and women: business attire -- Business casual, casual, after-hours dressing -- Lacking meeting etiquette -- Getting your message across -- Tips for leading meetings, seating -- Arrangements, participation -- Being unprepared for interviews -- Preparation -- Tips on what to wear, what to carry, your body language, what to say -- Using poor telephone etiquette and protocol -- Listening -- Tips for answering the phone, making calls -- Leaving messages, returning calls -- Staying focused -- Choosing the wrong gift -- Gift selection -- Gift suggestions for employees, employers -- Coworkers, clients -- Frequently asked questions -- Lacking professionalism while traveling -- What to take with you -- Protocol on the plane -- Lodging protocol -- Tips for a successful trip -- You are your competitive advantage.

"A guide to help business people avoid common faux pas in their contacts with employers, employees, colleagues, clients, and prospects"--Provided by publisher.