Eight Common Etiquette Mistakes 

&

How to Avoid Them

Everyone makes mistakes.  When we make a mistake, it is necessary to apologize and move on.  Most importantly, learn from your mistakes and try not to keep repeating the same ones over.  

Following certain rules of etiquette is essential in both professional and social situations, so it's a good idea to learn them. It can mean the difference between getting ahead in business and keeping or losing friends.

 
     

1. Forgetting those whom you are with.

Always give the person you are physically with your attention. If your cell phone rings, or you receive a text that needs immediate response, politely excuse yourself and keep all electronic contact brief. Then when you return to the person, apologize and refrain from making a habit of chatting on the phone or texting when you're with someone. 

2.  Being Impolite to anyone.

Politeness extends to everyone you come in contact with, from the grocery store clerk, the person on the street and even your boss. Not being nice to people shows a lack of character.  Just remember the Golden Rule, "Treat other as you would wish to be treated."

3.  Being Late.

When people are late they are showing disrespect to others. When you agree to show up at a certain time, be there on time.  If you are running late, call and let the other person know your circumstances and your estimated time of arrival.

4.  Failing to R.S.V.P.

When you are invited to an event let the host know whether or not you will be attending, as soon as possible.  Failing to R.S.V.P. keeps the host from knowing the number of guests they will have to plan for and can be costly.  If you have given your regrets and find you can attend, call the host and ask if it isn't too late.  Never change plans if something more interesting comes along. That host may never invite you again if he/she finds out.

5.  It's All About Me!

If you have a habit of making the conversation all about you, you may find people avoiding you.  When speaking with people focus more on their interests and what they think about on certain topics.  They will in-turn ask you questions and the conversation is more enjoyable for both parties.

6.  Poor Table Manners.

If you are dining with others, brush up on your table manners.  Learn which utensil to use while dining, don't talk with your mouth full. If someone asks you a question right after you take a bite, most likely will understand and be willing to wait until you chew and swallow.  Never leave the table when people are still eating.  Wait until everyone has finished his or her meal.

7.  Failing to introduce others.

Did you know it is your responsibility to introduce people who don't know each other?  Start by simply saying, "I would like to introduce you to my co-worker Jane" it's that easy. If you forgot the person's name politely say something like, "I'm sorry. I know we've met, but I can't recall your name." Then use the person's name during the introduction and afterward in conversation.

8.  Lack of Gratitude. 

When someone gives you a gift or performs an act of kindness always say, "Thank you" and it is important send a thank you note.

 

 

           For our etiquette class schedule please visit our website            

                                             www.itsallaboutetiquette.com

                                               or call 480 510-6346

"Etiquette makes life more pleasant for everyone."

 

Did you ever wonder what the world would be like if we didn't practice good manners?  

 

I always ask my students this question on the first day of class.  They are mortified when I present to them a few examples. Shopping at the mall, driving in traffic, and eating out at a restaurant to name a few. 

Let's just say it wouldn't be a world in which I would like to live in.  Growing up our parent's reminded us about the magic words, how to act at our friend's house and what was expected of us.  Now as we become adults we pass these manners onto our children because we know the importance of what manners do for us.

As adults, most of us still care about having a social life. Ignoring proper etiquette guidelines can leave us off the guest list and socially isolated.

In the professional world there are certain expectations of how a business person is supposed to act. If you follow the rules, you're perceived as confident and someone who knows what you're talking about. However, if you don't, you may be thought of as self-centered or rude.

Practicing proper etiquette is essential in all aspects of life if you want others to respect you. 

Here are some of the many advantages of having good manners:

 

1. Being nice at home sets the stage for better behavior.  If a parent
    practices good manners at home, so will their children.

2.  Professional manners get positive attention.  Following the etiquette rules
     at work will help you earn respect and possibly even contribute to 
     promotions and raises. 

3.  Being kind to customers increases sales.  Showing customer's good
     manners by listening and speaking politely, you are likely to earn their
     future business.   

4.  Being polite to your friends will keep them calling.  Everyone likes to be
     around someone who has good manners. 

5.  Romantic relationships are stronger when couples respect each other. 

6.  Treating other people with respect makes them want to be nice back to
     you.  Hold the door for someone or give them a smile.  It might just make  
     their day! 

7.  Driving with good manners can help prevent accidents.  Everyone 
     makes mistakes.  Keep your temper in check. 

8.  Others will listen if you give them a chance to speak.  Show respect by
     listening to what others have to say.   

9.  Good social etiquette will keep your name on the guest list.   

10. Knowing and using proper etiquette regularly can help with
 

      confidence. If you are in the habit of using good manners all the time, you
      won't have to worry about whether or not you're doing or saying the right
      thing. It will come natural to you, and others will respect you more for it.

"Good manners are just a way of showing other people that we have respect for them." 

~Bill Kelly

Upcoming Etiquette Classes

September 14 - Dining Etiquette for Adults "Dining Night Out"

October 7 - 26 Ages 9-12

November 4 Teen Workshop Ages 13 - 18

For more information please visit out website www.itsallaboutetiquette.com 

or call 480 510-6346 

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