Elizabeth Fountain

Elizabeth Fountain brings more than ten years of training and speaking experience to her clients. She has facilitated seminars to over 50,000 people in 38 states and on 3 continents. After her studies in international business at the University of Colorado, Boulder, coupled with her fluency in two foreign languages, Ms. Fountain has had diverse careers before she found her true calling. She was a Purser with TWA and has started three successful businesses.

With a passion for public speaking, a gift for bringing out the best in people, and the ability to solve problems creatively, her current company was formed. Specializing in business etiquette, cross cultural training, and professional development, including customer service. Ms. Fountain's clients include many Fortune 100, 500 and 1000 companies in the banking, insurance, utility industries, as well as professional organizations, associations, and academia. Whether she is addressing front line staff, administrative assistants, or high-level executives, she is in tune with the participants and their issues. Regardless of the topic, Ms. Fountain makes learning an enjoyable occasion. Her programs are enriched with her extensive business experience and lots of humor.

Ms. Fountain has been featured in a variety of media. Articles regarding her expertise have appeared in many newspapers and magazines. She has been the guest on several television and radio shows. Some of her proudest professional accomplishments include her weekly television show, "The Talk of the Town", her monthly column in the Kansas City Business Journal, and publication of her first book, The Polished Professional . She is a member of the American Society of Trainers and Developers.

Most Requested Topics:

Business Etiquette and Image: This is the recommended program for newly hired associates and for those aspiring to become upper level executives. Participants will learn that professionalism is a combination of appearance, knowledge, and behavior. This is a one-day seminar that will cover: First Impressions / Body Language / Dress Demonstration for Women and Men, Tailor Fit for the Industry / Hierarchy in 3 Different Arenas / Introductions / When to Show Deference / Written Correspondence / Telecommunications: Telephone, Fax, Voicemail, and "Netiquette" / The Most Common Etiquette Mistakes / Gift Giving

There Is no Dress Rehearsal in Business: This one-day program specifically addresses how to make a powerful and positive first impression. Participants will learn how to dress appropriately for every occasion, the four different personality styles, and how to communicate more effectively. Other topics covered are: How to Make Introductions / The Art of Conversation / How to Be Heard / How to Work a Room / How to Have Presence / Cocktail Party and Social Dilemmas

Global Executive Etiquette: This presentation can be a one or two-day program, depending on the client's needs. It covers the many facets of international business etiquette. Participants will learn the three most important things to know before meeting your foreign associates, how to be a "Global American," and universal etiquette rules. Attendees will also gain an understanding of: The Cornerstones of Etiquette / Protocol / The Differences Between Business and Social Etiquette / Continental and American Table Manners / The 10 Rules of Business Entertaining / "Netiquette" / Sophisticated Written Business Correspondence / A Potpourri of Etiquette and a Lot More. This particular program is recommended to accompany a Country Specific Cross-Cultural Brief

The 10 Qualities of Exceptional Employees: This program is highly charged and motivational and can be as short as a keynote or a workshop that continues for several days. Valuable information for what employers are looking for in their employees: How to Have a Positive Attitude / The Importance of Strong and Effective Communication Skills / How to Balance Our Lives / How to Be Amenable to Change / Accomplishing the Important / Showing Leadership Qualities / Personal and Professional Goal Setting / Presenting Your Professional Best / Continuing Self-Development / Calculated Risks and Solving Problems

Country Specific Cross-Cultural Briefs: Created for clients working with foreign associates either at home or abroad. The briefs explain the nuances of the specific culture to better prepare the client for their foreign associates. Briefs also highlight major historical events, the geography, and current happenings in the country. Other issues contained are: Communication Styles / Business Etiquette / Business Gift Giving / Forms of Address / Appropriate Greetings / Negotiation Styles / How to Entertain / How to Be Entertained / Dining Habits