Believe it or not we are coming up to Christmas... well the Shopping malls and TV ads are telling me that. With that, the parties are starting, the liver is getting prepared both professionally and personally. I have friends off to Indonesia this coming weekend, so I have now had my first official Christmas do...

With the advent of the Christmas spirit, I was reminded of a saying my Dad always used to say if people were coming over for a function or a party. "Sure come on over. Just make sure you knock with your elbows!"

I love the saying.... do you understand where my Dad was coming from? You had to knock with your elbows because your hands were full. Full of what? Up to you, but you were adding value to the party!

Hmmm Recruitment, business, life advice or just social etiquette? Answer= (E) - All of the above.

Ask yourself this question before entering a meeting, making a call, offering a job, asking for a raise, or even applying for a job. Am I knocking with my elbows?Am I bringing something to the party in this situation? If not what are you there? Why are you doing that?
You need to know why you are making that call to a client, why they will want to buy from you. You need to know why that candidate wants to accept your job. You need to know why your company needs you around. Take the time to learn the value you are adding. Learn your own Unique Value Proposition, and be prepared to share it.

It's poor manners to turn up to a party with nothing. Knock with your elbows! And ensure YOU ARE BRINGING SOMETHING TO THE TABLE!