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Global Protocol, Inc.
2415 East Camelback
Suite 700
Phoenix, Arizona 85016
(602) 553-1046
Toll-free: 866-991-2660
Fax: 866-991-3520

Founded 1985
by Gloria Petersen


The trademark
“Global Protocol”
is registered in the
United States
and Canada Patent
and Trademark Offices.

Memberships:


Member since 1991

Philanthropy:

Serenity Hospice Advisory Board

Arizona Fraternal Order Of Police

Volunteer Fire Fighters of Arizona

Kiwanis

Dear Ms. Know: Go ahead, make her day. After all, she did it to improve her appearance and would probably appreciate some feedback. Generic compliments, such as "You look wonderful," are most appropriate, says Gloria Petersen, who coaches business protocol and etiquette in Chicago. Two caveats: Avoid making comparisons ("You look so much younger now") and don't zero in on a specific area ("Your nose is so small!"). "People can be very self-conscious, so it's best to offer an overall compliment," Petersen advises, "But if someone is bold enough to ask, 'What do you think of my nose?' be direct."

I'm a man who works with a lot of women, and all the talk about sexual harassment has me worried. Can I tell an occasional dirty joke or pat someone on the back without getting dragged to court?

Chatham Howe

Dear Mr. Howe: Legally speaking, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recognizes sexual harassment in two categories; quid pro quo harassment ("If you don't go out with me, I won't promote you"), and the harder-to-gauge "hostile work environment," in which pervasive sexual conduct—like unwanted touching or offensive language—intimidates a worker or interferes unreasonably with his or her performance. "Sexual harassment isn't one off-color joke or one pat on the back," explains employment lawyer Vicki Abrahamson.

But just because you may not be making someone's workplace unbearable doesn't mean you're not making him or her uncomfortable. Name calling and swearing are never couth. And while a friendly pat on the back may seem harmless, not everyone wants a shoulder-rub from a coworker. "Everybody has a different level of comfort when it comes to touch," explains business etiquette coach Gloria Petersen. Limit your contact to handshakes—the only form of touch understood in all business circles and cultures.