A little bit of class or Executive Etiquette 101

Every so often, business requires us to dust off the ole black tie and make ourselves presentable. Recently, on such an occasion, I was asked to give a toast to the guest of honor. It's been awhile, so I did a little homework . . .

Nothing sets the mood or makes a guest feel like part of the group than a well-delivered toast. The first toast is traditionally the job of the host (guests may follow with their own). If you keep a few simple rules in mind, you'll be quite the Toastmaster. . .

• Always stand to make a toast, sit to receive one.
• Face the person you are toasting and raise your glass.
• Be clever if you can (if that is not your strength, consider a well know adage that is appropriate to the situation).
• When in doubt, toast to their health and wish them good fortune.
• Remember, it's a toast, not a speech. Keep it short.
• Finish the toast by raising your glass and making eye contact when the glasses clink together.
  

And remember NEVER

• Solicit business in a toast (Oh, you'd be surprised!)
• Betray a trust.
• Make your guest uncomfortable by relaying an embarrassing story.
• Thank a guest for his business. Instead, thank them for their friendship, support or guidance.

Finally, it is polite to return the favor and briefly toast the person who toasted you. A simple thank you and acknowledgement of their hospitality is quite acceptable.