Saturday, September 2, 2017

 

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