Podcast Summary: "Making a Lasting Impression: Etiquette Tips for Holiday Parties, Job Interviews, and Networking"

Episode: Making a Lasting Impression: Etiquette Tips for Holiday Parties, Job Interviews and Networking From Purdue’s Westwood Event Coordinator Anthony Cawdron
Release Date: November 25, 2024
Host: Kate Young
Guest: Anthony Codron, Westwood Event Coordinator and Estate Manager

1. Introduction

In this episode of "This Is Purdue," host Kate Young engages in an insightful conversation with Anthony Codron, Purdue University’s Westwood Event Coordinator and Estate Manager. Anthony, originally from the UK, brings over 24 years of international experience in hospitality and event management to Purdue. The discussion delves into his role at Westwood, his journey to Purdue, and his expertise in business etiquette, offering listeners valuable tips for navigating holiday parties, job interviews, and networking events.

2. Anthony Codron’s Background and Journey to Purdue

Anthony begins by sharing his diverse background, shaped by his upbringing as a "military brat" due to his father's Air Force career. His childhood involved living in various countries, including Hong Kong and Singapore, before returning to England to complete his education. Anthony pursued catering college, worked in prestigious European settings like Blenheim Palace, and eventually moved to the United States for a work abroad project at Iowa State in Ames, Iowa.

Anthony Codron [05:10]: "Overall travel and just being involved in international hotels and restaurants... really started me interested in the events business and catering."

During his time at Iowa State, Anthony met former Purdue president Martin Jischke and his wife Patty, leading to his move to Purdue. Initially planning to stay for six months, Anthony found a welcoming community and decided to make Purdue his long-term home.

3. Role and Responsibilities at Westwood

At Westwood, the historic home of Purdue's presidents, Anthony oversees the maintenance and preparation of the estate for various events. His responsibilities include:

• Housekeeping Management: Leading a team to ensure the house is always event-ready.
• Event Coordination: Planning and executing events ranging from intimate dinners to large gatherings of up to 250 guests.
• Collaboration with Staff: Working closely with the president's office and the culinary team to design menus and set up event spaces.
• Versatility in Hosting: Adapting the estate’s spaces to accommodate different event sizes and types.

Anthony Codron [08:58]: "Keeping the house looking as good as it can... making sure that we're up to date on what's happening, who's coming."

4. Experiences and Memories at Westwood

Anthony reminisces about hosting distinguished guests such as Secretaries of State Madeleine Albright, Colin Powell, and Condoleezza Rice. One memorable event involved serving a three-course meal within a tight 37-minute timeframe, showcasing the team's ability to handle high-pressure situations gracefully.

He also shares lighter anecdotes, like managing unexpected visitors such as cats and handling power outages, which occasionally require his immediate attention to ensure the estate remains operational.

Anthony Codron [15:22]: "Sometimes the cats come in by mistake... and dealing with them is another challenge."

5. Teaching Business Etiquette at Purdue

Beyond his role at Westwood, Anthony imparts his expertise through a business etiquette course at Purdue's White Lodging JW Marriott Junior School of Hospitality and Tourism Management. His classes, consistently filled with 60-65 students each semester, emphasize the importance of:

• First Impressions: How attire and personal grooming reflect one’s professionalism.
• Dining Etiquette: Proper behavior during meals, including utensil usage and table manners.
• Effective Communication: Balancing conversation and dining, active listening, and engaging in meaningful small talk.

Anthony Codron [21:56]: "A lot of this is common sense. The problem is that sense isn't that common anymore."

6. Etiquette Tips for Networking and Job Interviews

Anthony offers practical advice for navigating social and professional settings:

• Meal Choices: Opt for dishes that are easy to eat without excessive handling, avoiding items that require cumbersome utensils.
• Pace Yourself: Match the dining pace of your companions to maintain conversation flow.
• Engage Others: Show attentiveness by offering to pass items or addressing others’ needs, demonstrating teamwork and consideration.
• Presentation Matters: Ensure personal grooming reflects reliability, such as maintaining clean and polished attire.

Anthony Codron [24:16]: "Choosing foods that you can eat without using your hands... keeping pace with the rest of the table."

7. Holiday Party Etiquette Advice

As the holiday season approaches, Anthony shares essential tips for hosting and attending parties:

• Gift-Giving: Opt for small, thoughtful gifts like ornaments or homemade treats. Avoid bringing items that require immediate handling by the host, such as unarranged flowers.

  Anthony Codron [39:18]: "If you feel like taking something, that's fine. But don't feel that you can't go empty-handed."

• Making a Polite Exit: Instead of the "Irish exit" (suddenly leaving without notice), ensure hosts are aware of your departure by making brief eye contact or verbally expressing your gratitude before leaving.

  Anthony Codron [47:28]: "Try and make some contact with the host... say, this has been wonderful, but I do have to dash."

• Small Talk Starters: Utilize open-ended questions and active listening to foster engaging conversations, transforming small talk into meaningful dialogue.

  Anthony Codron [43:37]: "Having actively listened or found out some details... it generates itself."

8. Recognition and Awards

Anthony was honored with the Boilermaker Award, recognizing his significant contributions to Purdue’s community and the enhanced quality of life for students. This accolade underscores his dedication and the positive impact of his work at Westwood.

Anthony Codron [32:01]: "It was a wonderful honor... Very nice honor."

9. Community and Loyalty to Purdue

Reflecting on his long tenure at Purdue, Anthony attributes his loyalty to the diverse and welcoming Midwestern community, the seasonal variety, and the opportunity to work with multiple Purdue presidents, each bringing unique challenges and experiences. He values the strong sense of community, the friendships forged through his role, and the ability to adapt and grow within his position.

Anthony Codron [37:30]: "There's a lot to the sort of the Midwestern warmth and welcoming feel... it's easy to move and see different parts of the country."

Conclusion

Anthony Codron’s extensive experience and passion for event management and etiquette provide invaluable insights for Purdue students and alumni navigating social and professional environments. His practical tips on dining etiquette, effective communication, and thoughtful social interactions equip listeners with the tools to make lasting impressions in various settings.

Anthony Codron [54:15]: "Listen, learn. And if someone does something outside of school that looks good, do exactly the same thing."

Listeners are encouraged to explore additional content and the full video interview available on the "This Is Purdue" YouTube page for a more immersive experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Attention to Detail: Small gestures and mindful actions significantly impact perceptions.
• Adaptability: Being prepared with backup plans enhances event management and personal interactions.
• Community Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships fosters a supportive and dynamic environment.
• Continuous Learning: Embracing opportunities to learn and improve ensures personal and professional growth.

For more episodes and content, subscribe to "This Is Purdue" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or visit the Purdue Podcast Website.

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