In a business setting, no. In a social setting, use your best judgment. Shake hands or do as the English by nodding a “How do you do?” with your head. No matter what gender you are, you are to STAND UP and then your hand is to be extended promptly when you meet another person. [...]
Archive for November, 2009
26Nov
Ideally, for a boy this means trousers, a shirt, and a jacket, vest or classic sweater. For girls, a party dress, dressy shoes, and white tights are very appropriate. No slacks or shorts on little girls. If a little girl is in a wedding, it is unsuitable to put makeup on her. I say “ideally” [...]
23Nov
Is there a boundary to tell someone – whether it be a friend or a stranger – that something on their person needs adjusting (e.g. a woman’s slip showing, food on a person’s chin, or worse yet a man’s fly open?)
Posted in Tips
The answer to your question is a recommendation to simply turn the situation around and ask yourself, “Would I want this friend/stranger to tell me?” Tact and good judgment are the keys. You could help a friend by nonchalantly tucking in a shirt label or gracefully removing a price tag. We all need occasional help [...]
19Nov
I do not know if it is because I served my [our] country for four years in the Navy, but I get disgusted when the national anthem is being played and there is a lack of respect. Many men do not remove their hats, women keep on talking, and some people keep walking down the aisle like it is a walk in the park. Why don’t they face the flag and place their right hand over their heart while singing?
Posted in Tips
This is a pet peeve of many, whether or not they served in the armed forces. Although we cannot control inconsiderate people in this country, we can communicate. Here is some flag etiquette: 1) Any time the American flag is being honored, it is respectful to stop talking and walking. 2) If you are uncomfortable [...]
16Nov
I have had numerous debates over an obscure issue. My mother says that my brother and I should walk on the street side when walking with a lady. The custom originated, she says, so that if a car drives through a puddle of water and splashes the man is there to shield the woman. Is this still appropriate in social as well as business settings?
Posted in Tips
Tradition has it that this basic rule of civility was established by George Washington in the days when carriages rumbled by, indeed splashing mud and water. Also, garbage used to be thrown out of windows on to the street, so it was considered chivalrous for the man to be in the path of the discarded [...]
12Nov
Is it the responsibility of a corporate guest to introduce himself/herself to the receptionist upon arrival at a business office? This seems to be an attitude problem on the regional district management level of our corporation.
Posted in Tips
Anytime anyone enters a business office where there is a receptionist it is protocol to identify yourself and the person with whom you have an appointment. “Hello, I am Peter Nelson. I have a 10 a.m. appointment with Mr. Huhnke.” A handshake with the receptionist is not necessary. Sharp manners would be to hand the [...]
09Nov
The answer is under the jurisdiction of the company’s owner or management who should give instructions at the time of hiring. When in doubt, ask. Personally, I think it is more professional to state your name. That way a caller has reference. Nothing is worse than being asked later, “To whom did you speak?” and [...]
05Nov
I am a man and I do not know any etiquette about women’s clothing, however, wouldn’t you think that a woman would be aware of the shortness of her skirt when she sits down? – especially in a business setting?
Posted in Tips
Yes, I would think. Note: Most corporate dress codes for skirt length dictate that it is no shorter than two inches above the top of the knee.
02Nov
When asked what you want to drink, honestly answer whatever you desire. If you say tonic and someone insists you have gin and tonic, politely say that you prefer it without alcohol. Fortunately in today’s society it is very accepted and wise not to drink alcohol, whereas years ago guests were pressured to drink alcoholic [...]
