MANNERS MATTER

Good manners and proper etiquette are at the very core of how we communicate with one another,” says Denise Dinyon, Lenox gift-giving and etiquette expert. “We need to develop and reinforce those essential courtesies that make our relationships strong, valuable and long-lasting.” She offers the following etiquette tips, which are easy to incorporate into everyday life:

1. Turn the cell phone off. -- completely -- during a luncheon meeting, social function, or on public transportation.
2. Hold the door -- whether male or female, hold open a door you have just passed through for the person behind you.
3. Bring a gift for the hostess -- preferably one that doesn’t require her to drop everything she is doing.
4. Keep to the right -- on the sidewalk, in stairwells.
5. Say please and thank you -- to waiters, flight attendants, store clerks, cab drivers -- the little things go a long way.
6. Circulate at a party or social gathering -- whether hostess or guest, the people, not the food or drink, should be your main focus.
7. Keep food or drink, briefcases or files in your left hand -- keep your right hand free for handshakes.
8. Stamp and address thank you notes in advance -- when you know they will be needed, then fill them out and drop them in the mail after attending an event or receiving a gift or favor and you’ll be done.
9. Make eye contact and offer a warm smile -- in every situation, this sets people at ease.
10. Be perceptive -- survey a situation and always use your best judgment.


Below are ones that I offer:

1. When conversing with someone, keep your eyes on theirs -- not to stare, but rather let them know that you are actively engaged in them.
2. Be on Time.  This is my biggest pet peeve!  It is so inconsiderate to make people wait on you. If you are habitually late, start earlier. If you are late too many times, you may find others wont' be willing to wait for you.
3. Make Pleasantries to everyone; not just people who you know.  Thank the janitor cleaning the restrooms at your office,  Thank the mailman.  Get in the habit of saying thank you and you'll be amazed at how YOU feel!  Be sure to smile big!
4.  Keep your appointments.  If you are unable to attend a lunch, meeting or social event, call in plenty of time if you are sick or running late.It's the right thing to do and you'll appreciate it when others do the same for you.


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