charm

You don't get a degree in it, but it is one quality that will kickstart a career rather more effectively than most academic qualifications. It's CHARM..  It is possible to work  hard to achieve a good degree and then wonder why potential employers remain unimpressed. It may be because a graduate presents little if any warmth of personality. Many successful people in a variety of careers have just about enough mastery of their subject to get by, but have progressed  because they know how to offer three simple qualities: they are an ability to LISTEN. They can SM ILE, and they MAKE TIME for the views of other people. It's an old fashioned attitude, but still vital in the art of successful human relations. A surprising number of people are successful and content with their lives, without academic qualifications, but with  a degree of empathy - they just get on with people. Can empathy be taught? perhaps not in the lecture room, but it can be encouraged and nurtured.The Campaign for Courtesy has been saying for 25 years that manners matter. As more and more graduates face frustration because they can't get a foot on their career choice ladder, it may be because they don't have the personal confidence that comes with genuine courtesy towards others. The Campaign for Courtesy offers basic guidance in this vital human resource. Contact Ian Gregory, the Campaign's Patron in Chief -  iancongist@hotmail.co.uk