In the heat of "personal focus" and taking care of our own agendas, it's easy to lose sight of the importance of displaying impeccable manners and demonstrating courtesy and kindness toward others.

The impression you leave upon others is highly influenced by the manner in which you conduct yourself and the way you treat others. If you want to leave a LASTING ENTHUSIASTIC IMPRESSION upon others, take it upon yourself to develop the habit of "minding your manners" and displaying kindness in all business situations and personal or professional interactions.

Consider these ideas for demonstrating excellent manners:

• Always hold the door open for others -- men and women. I follow the "four step" rule: If someone is about four steps or less from the door behind me, I wait and hold the door for them -- regardless of age.
• Always show kindness and acknowledge the receptionist and/or switchboard operator. Their job is a tough one. Smile and say hello -- be remembered for your kindness.
• Always offer a guest water or a cup of coffee and retrieve it for them.
• Call ahead if you're going to be more than a few minutes late for a meeting, lunch or other appointment.
• Give someone at least 48 hours notice if you need to change a meeting or call time.
• Return phone calls within 24 hours or get back with an email indicating when you will return the call.
• If YOU invite someone to lunch, it is courtesy for you to make the offer to pay (and vice versa)r
• Listen then pause. In EVERY conversation, give your full attention, make eye contact and nod.
• Send thank you notes and emails promptly in follow up to good things that others do for you. Handwritten notes are especially remembered.
• Always thank a contact for EVERY referral you receive from them. Referrals are the lifeblood for many of us. Never let an opportunity to thank someone for a referral slip by you.
• Arrive 5 minutes early for a lunch meeting; secure a quiet table and greet your guest standing and with a SMILE.
• Always make introductions when someone walks up to a group. Do your best to make others comfortable with each other.

Be conscious of your manners and look for opportunities TODAY to openly display kindness toward those around around. Be a role model.