Etiquette is a set of practices and forms which are followed in a wide variety of situations; many people consider it to be a branch of decorum, or general social behavior. Each society has its own distinct etiquette, and various cultures within a society also have their own rules and social norms. Learning etiquette can be very challenging for people who are new to a particular culture, and even old hands sometimes have a rough time, providing fodder for etiquette advice columnists like Miss Manners.
The rules of etiquette govern how people behave. For example, the concept of greeting people politely and with respect is common to the etiquette of many cultures, although the way in which that respect is expressed may vary. In some Asian countries, for example, people may bow or clasp their hands together when greeting someone, while in the United States, people often shake hands, or hug each other in some subcultures.
By treating people as respectfully as you know how and by using common sense, you will probably avoid most perilous etiquette related situations. However, if you are planning to enter an unfamiliar culture, whether it be another country or the military, it pays to do research. Numerous guides to etiquette can probably be found in your local library or bookstore, ranging from the classic Emily Post to more specialized guides. It is especially important to review such guides if you plan to travel in Asia or the Middle East, as it is very easy to thoughtlessly cause offense, potentially generating a big social rift.
Buffet Etiquette- Do you know how to mind your manners in a buffet line? “Buffet” is not synonymous with “All You Can Eat”.
Dating Etiquette - Use the following tips to avoid miscommunication and embarrassment on a first date or any date.
Guest Etiquette - How you can be the perfect guest. A host is always at her best when she doesn’t have to worry about her guests.
Host Etiquette- The fundamental role of a good host is to make sure her guests are comfortable and enjoying themselves. If you are not comfortable with entertaining, it is best to start small, rather than inviting one hundred of your nearest and dearest.
Mingling Etiquette - Mingling at a variety of social functions is one of the most important life skills. It can also be one of the most nerve-wracking, especially in awkward settings where idle chitchat with strangers is expected. At these events, many of us tend to either cling to the few people we know or keep to ourselves.
Manners and Etiquette Protocol
How many of you hear in your head "get your elbows off the table" while you are at a sit down dinner or wonder what is the best way to eat messy food at a party? I decided to ask the experts to fill me in on some key topics for proper etiquette and manners.
Below are links to articles and tips that were sent to us by industry experts. Ohhhh.... I guess I should say... " Thank you for visiting". :-)
Ever wonder some of the rules of being a perfect hostess, going through a buffet line, mingling at events? Here are some tips for you.