Walethia Aquil

What’s your 60-second elevator speech about your business?

Grace and Charm creates powerful professional brands by taking professionals from invisible to impeccable within a competitive marketplace that generates business building results.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Grace and Charm

What drew you to your line of business?

When I was younger I struggled with my self-confidence and self-esteem. I was insecure and I grew up in a family with limited resources.  I didn’t have the social skills. When I became an adult I attended a finishing school and learned etiquette to improve my presentation.  Ultimately, I became a certified etiquette coach.

When you have the social skills it opens the doors of opportunity and it often helps you close the deal.  First impressions matter and when you are not socially savvy that can sabotage your success.  That’s why I started Grace and Charm.  I wanted to help others like me overcome the barriers to success.

What is your most marked characteristic?

First, my name is very unique.  It seems to stick with people.  Second, I teach real world skills that make a difference in people’s daily lives.

What business book have you read lately?

I’ve written three books, and my latest book – "Madame CEO – How to Think and Act Like a Chief Executive" is what I’ve read most recently.  The book focuses on what it takes to project leadership and garner respect in the workplace.

My two other books are also excellent reads --  "Women Who Win – Business Etiquette Tactics That Lead to Triumph in Life and Business" and "Sister to Sister – A Guide for African American Girls" .