1. You make an impression on someone within the first seven seconds of an interaction. Body language speaks volumes. Always be self aware and on your game. 2. Invest time in learning the customs of international clients.

3. Be an active listener. This will add value to your conversations. 4. Show respect for everyone you encounter, from your colleagues to the receptionist to the security guards. Your attitude will resonate. 5. Brush up on your dining and social manners. Always send handwritten thank you notes.

For children: 1. Children should understand at an early age the importance of eye contact, a firm handshake, and gracious greetings. 2. Children should practice deference and respect for all grown-ups. 3. Children who practice kindness and gratitude at home will find social situations at school and elsewhere instinctively easier.

4. Giving and receiving compliments sincerely builds self-esteem. 5. “Please’’ and “thank you’’ are more than magic words. The former acknowledges not everything in the world belongs to you; the latter affirms that what you have is a consequence of a connection to others.