March 9: The Rules of Engagement
The Elevators: It’s good form to say hello to the security guards, but once you are in the elevator, look forward and remain silent. The rule about silence can and should be broken if one of the passengers is the president (appropriate subject areas: current books, best hot dogs/pancakes in the region, sports). Smile and be gracious. Do not try to engage his bodyguard.
Guests: You must pre-register visitors through an online security tool called iVisitor. This tool allows Building Services to screen guests before they arrive and to prepare a security badge that displays the visitor’s name, the location of their meeting, and the name of the person with whom they are meeting.
Meetings: Expect to have meetings to prepare for other meetings. This is especially true if you are preparing for a meeting that involves members of the senior leadership team. Meetings themselves should have the patina of a non-hierarchical democracy. Everyone’s point of view can and should be considered, even if that means issues are not quickly resolved. Perhaps more meetings should be scheduled to discuss things further?
Food: The in-house cafeteria is a convenient place for hot and cold drinks, fresh fruit, bagels or pastries. Do not eat the prepared food. It looks tempting, until you see Tony wipe his sweaty brow while fixing your sandwich.