Category: social etiquette

Turkey Day: 5 Etiquette Rules for Thanksgiving Dinner and Diners

Thanksgiving is a special time when it’s OK to stuff both the turkey and yourself, but there are some rules of proper behavior that must be followed as you and guests sit down to a feast. Bring a Dish Just like the original Thanksgiving when the guests arrived with a dish, you should, too. But…


Behind Closed Doors: The Unspoken Rules of Sharing an Elevator

An everyday occurrence for millions of people, few things are as fraught with the potential for social faux pas as riding in a small, confining elevator with random strangers. Never fear, these tips will make you feel less socially anxious. It’s Here! While there’s a temptation to cluster directly in front of the elevator doors,…


Get a Grip: How to Give a Perfect Handshake

There are several examples of things universally understood, regardless of language barriers. They include smiles, frowns, and handshakes. Step Up Unless there are health issues keeping you seated, stand up and confidently approach the other person to shake hands. Make eye contact, smile, firmly grasp their proffered hand, and pump it up and down twice…


Tea Etiquette

Whether you’re hosting high tea, afternoon tea (low tea), or simply sipping a cup in front of the fireplace, ritual adds to the enjoyment. Not So ‘High’ Tea The words “high tea” conjure an image of a royal, fabulous fête with divine snacks set in the glamorous backdrop of Buckingham Palace. That couldn’t be more…


How to Communicate With Confidence

What you don’t say matters as much as what you do say—sometimes more. Don’t let poor body language undermine your good message. Pull your shoulders back, put your head up, and get ready to make your point heard! Nonverbal Signals You may not even be aware of it, but your body is having a conversation…


The Art of First Impressions: How to Make New Relationships Great

Our parents may have told us, “Don’t judge a book by its cover,” but the truth is that you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Judgments can be formed in as little as three seconds; use that time to “wow!” them. Universal Truths Whether you’re heading to an interview for the…


‘Goodness Me!’ Handling Embarrassing Situations With Grace

We’ve all had our share of social blunders. The more awkward the situation, the more important it is to own up to it and efficiently move on. Parsley in the Pearly Whites You may feel shy telling someone that they’ve got food stuck in their teeth, particularly if they’re not a close friend, but it’s…