Respectful adjective re·spect·ful \ri-ˈspekt-fəl\
Definition of RESPECTFUL: showing high regard or courtesy <a respectful manner.
Over the past few years I have attended many seminars and presentations within the city I work in and also through the MMBA.
What I find alarming at some of these events is the lack of common courtesy, by not being respectful to the presenter as they share their information and knowledge with the audience.
Most people who know me, know I am not perfect, except for my kids.
I know I have held a conversation with someone sitting next to me when I should be paying full attention to the speaker.
I am as guilty as the next, so I cannot judge.
* What I can say is I need to be courteous and respectful every time I am at a seminar or presentation where there is a speaker sharing their knowledge for my benefit.
* It should go without saying I should be courteous and respectful to others at all times, not just at events.
* I need to remember I attend these events to learn and gain knowledge so I can be better at what I do and can share my gained knowledge with others.
* I need to remember if I need to talk I should do so quietly, so as I don't interrupt others.
* I need to remember there will always be time after the seminar/presentation to catch up and socialize with others.
* I need to remember most of the time when I attend seminars/presentations they are through work.
Therefore, I need to hold myself to a higher standard, given I represent the city and they more than likely paid for me to attend.
* I need to remember how I would feel if I was making a presentation and had to keep trying to talk over others.
* I need to remember how lucky I am my city wants me to attend these seminars/presentations, because I know there are many in my position who can't go due to city finances or politics.
My goal in upcoming seminars/presentations is to give 100% attention, be courteous and respectful to the presenter and others in the room and to listen and learn.
I hope all of you will also remember to be courteous and respectful in the next seminar/presentation you attend, whether it's at an MMBA event a city event or something else.
None of us are perfect and I know I may slip up, but it will not be for a lack of trying.
I hope you all can follow me and my goal and do the same.
Have a great fall and I hope to see you at our upcoming regional meetings held around the state!!
Steve Grausam
Edina Liquor | 
