First Impressions: Some Of The Most Commonly Made Faux Pas
Grammatical Mistakes
lay/lie
accept/except
affect/effect
sit/set
raise/rise
than/then
whom/who
among/between
Giggling - Many people laugh to fill silent moments, rather than merely pausing. This is a distracting and unprofessional habit.
Hand Gestures - Your hands should be used to enhance what you are saying rather than to detract from what is being said. Tests have shown that hands "above-board" rather than "in-pockets" project a more positive image.
The only legitimate form of touch in business is the handshake. A pat, nudge or touch of the arm can be perceived as being too friendly.
Throat Clearing - To fill a silence, many individuals clear their throats rather than swallowing. What about you?
