14 Jul
Body Language Mistakes Women Make
What Does Your Handshake Say About You?
Did you know that your handshake reveals your traits, motivations and feelings toward others? Here’s an interesting video on ten different handshakes.
Top Ways to Pass a Panel Interview
By: Jorie Scholnik, Guest Blogger
Iwas elated when my first choice for a graduate internship site notified me that I was selected for an interview. I did my research and felt extremely prepared. I assumed that I would be interviewed by just one person, however, I was quite wrong. When my potential boss greeted me, she brought me back to a room where three other people were sitting around the table. I realized that I was going to be interviewed by a panel of potential coworkers.
I introduced myself to everyone in the room and shook everyone’s hand. When prompted, I mostly focused on the panelist who asked the question, but made a point to make eye contact and acknowledge the other members in the group. I also took note of their different titles and responsibilities and made an effort to ask questions to some of the panelists at the end of the interview. After the interview, I wrote a thank you note to each member of the team. Read more
The Dos and Don'ts of Hugging Etiquette
By Jorie Scholnik, Guest Blogger
Is saying hello and giving a handshake outdated? Not yet, but apparently hugging seems to be the latest trend and is taking over as a standard greeting among the younger set. Hugging, typically viewed as a sign of affection, and has sparked much debate in schools across the country. In fact, hugging is so popular in some high schools that officials have banned this gesture of affection or imposed the three-second rule.
It’s amazing how something so innocuous can divide the world into categories: pro-huggers and anti-huggers. Before you quickly place yourself on either side, remember that hugging is a personal choice that varies from person to person. Therefore, especially when in the business world, consider the following dos and don’ts of hugging before you go in for a big one.
Always respect another person’s space. An individual’s family background, culture, age and gender play a major role in the acceptance or displeasure of a hug. Usually, like a kiss, you can tell from a person’s body language if they would be willing to receive a hug or not.
Follow the three-second rule. Keep the hug short and avoid placing your arm too low around the other person. Longer hugs have a certain connotation and could have negative repercussions if a co-worker’s spouse or significant other is present.
Pass the sniff test. By sniff, I mean sniffles and smell. If you are sniffling because you are sick, the other person will appreciate not catching your cold. Additionally, if you just finished working out or are perspiring, it may not be the best time for a bear hug. No one enjoys a hug from someone who reeks of alcohol.
Ask permission when you need or want to share a hug. If you ask permission, the receiver will feel respected and have an opportunity to voice their comfort level. It is especially important to ask before you give a giant bear hug to your boss, client or new employee. In these situations, you may want to opt for the age-old handshake. In fact, if you have to ask, you probably shouldn’t do it.
Avoid awkward moments. If you are with a group of people and you know some people better than others, give your new acquaintances a handshake first and then follow with hugs for those you know well. Therefore, you won’t have to guess if your new acquaintances are pro-huggers or anti-huggers. Always be considerate of other’s boundaries.
Consider frequency and occasion. There may be more appropriate occasions for a hug such as when you haven’t seen a co-worker for an extended period of time or if you’re at a holiday party. A hug is not necessary if you see a co-worker on a regular basis.
Jorie Scholnik is currently pursuing her masters and specialist degrees in Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Counseling at the University of Florida. She has been interning seasonally at the Protocol School of Palm Beach since June 2006.
Royal Etiquette? Michelle Obama Hugs The Queen
When Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II said to the President and Mrs. Obama, “Let’s keep in touch,” no one suspected that she meant it quite literally. When one thinks of the queen, “touchy feely” usually doesn’t enter one’s mind. Until now.
Her Royal Highness made it crystal clear yesterday at Buckingham Palace in London that she likes the first lady very much as she gently put her arm around her waist. In general, it is a breach in protocol if someone embraces the queen first. However, in this case, it was the queen who made the first move. Michelle simply reciprocated with a hug that looked like something you would see a daughter give to her mother. This bold move both shocked and warmed the hearts of all who witnessed the warm embrace.
Historically, the queen is not known for showing affection in public, or in private for that matter. It’s been said that her son, Prince Charles, complained on one occasion that he wasn’t given enough affection as a child.
This “touching” moment sparks the question, “Could it be that the queen is starting to mellow as she ages or does she simply admire qualities in Michelle that she sees in herself?” After all, if you mix brilliance, strength and confidence with a little bit of kindness the two women make the perfect pair!


















