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November / December 2017
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ETIQUETTE FOR AN RSVP
Of course , not everyone is completely at ease with knowing whether they are conveying proper business etiquette to corporate hosts , colleagues and other guests . Keep in mind , the purpose of etiquette is to create an environment that allows everyone to feel comfortable . “ RSVP ” -- “ Répondez s ’ il vous plaît ” in French , or “ please reply ” -- you ’ re expected to accept or decline the invitation in advance . If you don ’ t , advise Yes / NO to the RSVP , the host , speaker or facilitator may think you don ’ t value other people ’ s time or are not professional or reliable .
How to Respond
Invitations usually include instructions on how to RSVP . If the invitation says to register online , RSVP at the site instead of calling or emailing to confirm . The DIVA Zone Enterprises will look at the list of registered guests when making final plans , and if you ’ re not there , you might not be included . And by all means , we want to include you in our events .
How Soon to Respond
Once the event is announced , review your calendar and respond as soon as you can . The DIVA Zone Enterprises events are set with a RSVP deadline at least one week before all scheduled events depending on the theme . If you decided to attend an event at the last minute contact the host so that we can place you on the list . If you are not attending an event , reply if you ’ re not going to attend .
What To Wear
What to wear to any event is a critical aspect . When attending events , we want you to remain comfortable yet business like . The event host will be more specific about the attire requirements in the RSVP . As a default , business casual is best if it ’ s not listed on the RSVP . Below are some of the meanings that may appear on an RSVP listing .
• Business attire ( suits and
dresses )
• Black tie / black tie optional ( more formal evening wear )
• Business casual ( trousers / khakis with long sleeve shirts )
• Jackets and ties required ( as instructed )
Bringing a Guest
If you plan to bring someone , it ’ s crucial that you include them when you RSVP . Even if you ’ ve confirmed the invitation on your own behalf , if you bring an unexpected guest at the last minute it ’ s the same as if you show up announced , potentially leaving your guest without a place at the table . So please do a + one until you receive confirmation from your guest if they are going to attend or not . Canceling
If you RSVP in the affirmative to a business lunch , you are expected to attend , and being a no-show could cost the host a hefty bill for several uneaten meals and entertainment . We understand that our lives can get busy , and circumstances do happen . In turn , we ask that you cancel as soon as you know you can ’ t make it , and make every effort to reach the host in person rather than emailing or leaving a voice message .
When should you arrive for an event ?
The event host spends a large amount of time and resources to plan and execute an event , so most people know the answer to this question : be on time ! If you are a representative of the host , the answer is that you should arrive up to 30 minutes early ( you will be given a time , show up when requested ). If you are a guest , understand that the organizer has been selective with the invitation list . Many invitations will include a brief agenda that highlights when guests may arrive for the event , typically providing a window of 15 to 30 minutes for registration and welcome reception times . Also , it ’ s important to stay as long as possible or to the conclusion of an event .
Linda L . Henderson Owner of Outsourcing Outlet Ltd www . outsourcingoutletltd . com virtualpro @ outsourcingoutletltd . com