An Introduction to Etiquette
When you hear the term “etiquette” what immediately comes to mind? Is it knowing which fork or knife to use for your eight-course meal?
Is it something women are supposed to know in order to appear more graceful and charming? Well, back in the day that might have been what it was, but today proper behavior is not gendered specific.
Today, etiquette encompasses so much more. There are many different types of etiquette such as dining etiquette, business and social etiquette, dress etiquette, restroom etiquette, cell phone etiquette, e-mail etiquette, movie theater etiquette, elevator etiquette, and the list goes on.
Merriam Webster defines etiquette as “the conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life.” Wikipedia defines etiquette as “a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within a society, social class, or group.” Emily Post defines etiquette as “consideration for the rights and feelings of others” and “not merely a rule for behavior in public but the very foundation upon which social life is built.”
So, as you can see, etiquette embraces your conduct and behavior towards others; it involves a mastering of your soft skills. What you practice behind closed doors is revealed once the doors are opened and good manners can define and distinguish you from others. Etiquette or good manners can touch basically everything you do and everyone you encounter. I look forward to empowering you to navigate those sticky or uncomfortable social situations through the power of the knowledge and practice of etiquette.
“Good manners will open doors that the best education cannot.” – Clarence Thomas
