FAIL

I am currently preparing to take a rather beastly grammar exam in my advanced writing course. Even though specific grammar rules have been implanted and ingrained into my memory, I still have trouble speaking and writing in ways that are "grammatically correct." Thankfully, I am not the only person that struggles with grammar. I have come across several online grammar errors that are quite humorous. Hopefully you will be able to get a chuckle out of these as well.

1. Those people who don't know the difference between 'they're', 'there', and 'their'....their so stupid.
2. Oh how incorrect grammer makes me giggle ;)
3. You can't take anything for granite in life. Ever.
4. So much for calling me Dad. Let down once again.
5. There are know stupid people....just stupid questions.
6. When your losing an argument, correct their grammar.
7. Just because you feel it, doesn't mean its there.
8. Roses are red violets are blue. Incorrect grammar will never be cute.
9. School is two easy for kids.
10. I can't believe my cat woke up died. She was fine last night.

Networking is Key

As a introvert, there are a few things that absolute terrify me about the business world. One of those things is networking. Networking basically is building relationships with other people to help create opportunities for yourself. This can actually be more difficult than it sounds, especially for us introverts who do not really enjoy talking to people that we don't know.

There are six main tips for networking. First, consider all events to be an opportunity for networking. Second, work on your conversation skills. Third, don't be bashful-greet people and introduce yourself, Fourth, exchange business cards with others so you have appropriate contact information. Fifth, when in a large group of people, don't stay with one person for too long. Finally, use appropriate social media to develop a network of business contacts.

I have realized that I am only really comfortable with the final tip, using social media. So basically, I am going to have to get over my aversion of taking to people if I want to be successful in the business world. I cannot hide behind other people, and I am going to have to work hard to create opportunities for myself. So if any of you guys have tips for learning how to be very comfortable talking to strangers, then feel free to share because I could use some MAJOR help in this area. But for now, I will go on happily being an introvert and I will try to gear up for these situations where I am going to have to force myself to talk to people.

Image Credit: www.talentsfromindia.com 

Was I Raised in a Barn?

A recent discussion in my writing and speaking for business class has made me pose the question, "Was I raised in a Barn?" Apparently there are all sorts of fancy-shamcy rules about how one is supposed to act during social gatherings, especially in business settings. Some of these rules are common knowledge, such as turning off your cell phone and chewing with your mouth closed. But, there are some rules that I find to be straight up bizarre! It really throws me off when I see table settings with more than one of each utensil. One is supposed to start at the outermost edge of the utensils, and move their way in as each course progresses throughout the meal. Does anyone else find this unnecessary? I do not think can be considered a travesty if one has to use the same knife, fork, and spoon for the entire meal. Also, who wants to worry about appropriate conversation topics, smiling enough, and avoiding fashion styles that will be distracting from the purpose of the event? It just sounds like one huge headache! I sincerely wonder how anyone can focus during any type of business discussion that takes place over a meal. I would be to caught up in the worry that I was making some huge etiquette blunder. Here is what it comes down to though. No, I was not raised in a barn, but that does not mean that I have perfect etiquette. Even if I find the rules of etiquette unnecessary or overwhelming, it is still important for me to know them. If I want to be considered a professional in my career field, I better at least be able to sit down and have a meal without offending my host with my barbaric ways.