Welcome to Pressing Questions, Fast Company’s workplace advice column. Every week, deputy editor Kathleen Davis, host of The New Way We Work podcast, will answer the biggest and most pressing ...

With each semester comes a new set of classes, a new schedule to navigate, and new professors. It can be nerve-wracking to have new professors, especially if you’re in a tough class or you’ve heard ...

Sara Jane Ho has made a living by teaching people how to not be a jerk. In 2012, she founded Sarita Institute, a finishing school in Beijing that offers courses including wine appreciation, small talk ...

These days, you’re just as likely to meet your next big client while waiting in line at Starbucks as you are while attending an official networking event, which means that every first impression ...

There are definite rules of engagement when it comes to making a great first impression. You’re probably familiar with many of them: Dress for the part, watch your body language, and, especially if ...

I have a friend who makes a great first impression. She does all the little things right. She makes eye contact. She smiles. She listens more than she talks. She asks smart questions, and meaningful ...

We’ve all been there. Your new boyfriend or girlfriend invites you to the big Thanksgiving feast. Your new fiancé drags you to the annual family reunion. Your new boss invites you to her son’s Bar ...