Summer barbecue etiquette tips and image advice
Barbecues should be fun. (Hey our Canadian summers are short.) But what if you’re shy or if you have to worry that you’re doing the wrong thing or you’re dressed like a refugee from a Hawaiian luau? Joanne was recently interviewed about barbecue do’s and don’ts for Investment Executive online magazine. (Click here to visit their great site and read the article by Fiona Collie entitled Casual Friday: Barbecue Etiquette for Advisors)
So I thought I would put together some of my own summer barbecue etiquette and image consultant tips.
Terry’s BBQ Advice:
Tip #1 – Don’t wear a shirt that’s louder than the music
Dress for success even at the bbq. Try to be more business casual rather than business casualty. Guys, if you’re wearing shorts they should be Pebble Beach worthy (that’s how our friend Lee Ready describes them). Ditch the wild shirts and crumpled cargo shorts.
Tip #2 – Don’t make a barbecued pig of yourself
Most barbecues are like buffets, so you can go back for seconds. Yes, this means you don’t have to pile a huge volcano of food on top of your plate. Now there’s less likelihood of you dripping some barbecue sauce on your nice clothes (that’s if you followed tip #1).
Tip #3 – It’s not a booze cruise
If you’re nervous about meeting new people or because of the summer heat you’ll be tempted to drink more than you should. DON”T. Remember if the barbecue is work related, getting a buzz on can blow your personal brand. This goes for management as well. You don’t want to lose the respect of your team. Know your limits and be sure to eat some food (but not too much see tip #2).
Tip #4 – Don’t stick it to people
Barbecue food tends to be messy. Remember you’re supposed to be mixing and mingling and that involves shaking people’s hands. How to avoid sticky handshakes? Try eating the finger foods with your left hand. That way you won’t be making a sticky first impression.
Tip #5 – Don’t circle the wagons
Don’t talk to the same boring group of people you always talk to. Talk to some boring people you don’t know. (And any Just kidding) Get out of your comfort zone a little bit. Approach and introduce yourself to new people and remember not to abandon spouses and guests. Stop complaining, keep the talk upbeat and avoid a lot of shoptalk. If you focus on others and help other people enjoy the barbecue you just might enjoy it more yourself and make a great impression.
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