Video Cases

This case and its discussion questions are based on a Canadian Broadcasting Corporation video that accompanies the textbook. In addition to whatever in-class use your instructor may have given the video, it's available on this website for online viewing. If directed to do so by your instructor, you can also answer the discussion questions online and email the results.
     These videos are intended only for students using the 1st Canadian Edition of Business Communications. To view the video, you'll require a password. Refer to page 541 in your textbook and use the first word appearing in the main text column as both 'username' and 'password.' Use of the word is case-sensitive.
     The free RealPlayer plug-in is required in order to view the videos. If needed, the plug-in can be downloaded from Real.

Schmoozing to Create Goodwill
Is a charity golf game good for business? Can you call lunch with a business associate work? Smart business people say yes to both questions. Businesses are increasingly working at opportunities to socialize and build relationships. Schmoozing has become a big part of business and learning how to schmooze has become a necessity.
     While business faculties are introducing students to the manners involved in schmoozing so they'll start off with basic skills, established businesses send employees to outreach courses to hone their skills or they bring in trainers. Managers know that schmoozing works. Knowing how to do a job isn't enough.
     The trainers deliver their courses to all levels of employees—not just those involved in sales and marketing. The trainers are image experts and they coach their classes on everything from how to dress to how to work a room, and what to talk about at a business lunch.
     Many people find casual socializing difficult, so trainers often suggest ways to break into conversations and to mix in large social gatherings. For example, trainers suggest you consider carefully how you approach people who are engaged in a conversation at a cocktail party. Rather than approach them too directly, approach them more subtly. Wait for a moment when they can see and include you. People will naturally part, let you in, and include you in the conversation.
     Have you had a business lunch or dinner lately? Did you know that if you invited the guest, it is considered polite to meet your guest in the front area? And do you know how much business you should discuss over the meal? Likely, you'll hardly talk about business at the meal. You can talk about business before the meal, but drop the business talk when the meal arrives. Instead, talk about other interests, get to know your associate, and work on establishing a relationship. You can return to some business talk with coffee and dessert. In such classes you'll learn to answer questions such as these:

• How do you fold your dinner napkin? (Fold the top 1/3 over and unfold it to wipe your hands.)
• Where does your guest of honour sit? (To your right.)

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View Schmoozing to Create Goodwill

1		Brainstorm in groups of four to create lists of events or activities in your locale or area of work that present good opportunities for schmoozing.
2		Many corporations and businesses have unofficial representatives on non-profit boards. How do these people generate goodwill for their companies?
3		What are the advantages of schmoozing for business relationships? Are there any disadvantages?