Writing Thank You Notes – Tips for You and Your Brand

By Joanne Blake | Etiquette & Manners , Networking & Dining

The Joy of Thank You Notes

I read an inspiring article, How a Simple Thank You Can Make a Difference in The Globe and Mail written by Sharon Kofed and it made me smile. Sharon teaches business English to international students. Because of the profound impact of personal notes she’s sent, she decided to incorporate the art of writing thank you notes into her class.Continue reading

Letters From The Lost – My Book Club Surprise

By Joanne Blake | Books , Conversation Topics

Travel and Book Club Coincidences

We often share travel and books as some of our favorite topics for conversation when networking. This summer by strange coincidence I combined the two. It all started by joining a book club.

Since I seem to gravitate towards the same types of books, I thought it would expand my reading horizons. So earlier this year I took the plunge at my local Edmonton public library where they even provide a librarian as book club host. I really enjoyed the new books and discussions.Continue reading

How to Turn a Negative into Positive Customer Service

By Joanne Blake | Etiquette & Manners

Delta Airlines turns a problem into an opportunity to strengthen customer relationships

In his book The Virgin Way, Everything I Know About Leadership, Richard Branson talks about the importance of turning a negative into a positive customer service experience.
“When a problem is handled quickly and effectively it will create more long-term customer loyalty than if the original service was delivered in a satisfactory manner.”

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Tips to Update Your Brand

By Joanne Blake | Dress & Image

Does your image need an overhaul?

A few years ago, an engineering client gave us some good image advice. He said you need to update your brand, your website doesn’t represent how good you actually are. (Terry was a bit hurt because he designed our first website but we realized the client was right.) Our site was part of our brand and it didn’t create a great first impression of us. So we hired a professional to update our site.

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Is Office Wear Getting Too Casual?

By Joanne Blake | Dress & Image

What’s your opinion on office attire?

I was recently asked to offer my thoughts on this question for the Costco Connection Magazine. As a corporate image consultant, I work with industries ranging from accountants to construction to veterinarians. Most of my clients tell me that office wear has become far too casual.Continue reading