Etiquette goes far beyond using the right fork for your salad. The concept of etiquette includes consideration, respect and honesty in our daily interaction with people. You might wonder: “How do I behave properly at a dinner party?” “What do I say in an interview?” or “What’s considerate phone etiquette?” Let’s explore some handy tips together to help you say “yes” to etiquette!
Social Etiquette
Social etiquette is about displaying gracious conduct in every public or private setting. More importantly, basic social etiquette involves acknowledging someone’s presence, making eye contact, the art of listening, being considerate and showing kindness to others.
Mobile Devices
Mobile devices play a huge role in our society and everyday lives. The more capabilities or “smarter” the smartphone is, the more engaged most users tend to be. This has led to a decline in common courtesy in terms of appropriate usage. Here are some helpful tips for appropriate cell phone etiquette.
- Use a low voice when taking calls in public.
- Avoid personal topics when others can hear you.
- Unless it’s an emergency, avoid taking calls or texting when you’re already engaged in a face-to-face conversation.
- Don’t drive and text at the same time.
- Put your phone’s ringer on silent mode in churches, meetings, theaters, cemeteries, restaurants, etc.
Job Interview
The first impression a potential employer has is important and lasting. It often helps determine whether or not the employer will consider you for their position. Wearing appropriate attire is a must. You want the employer to focus on you and not your outfit. Neatness is as important as wearing appropriate attire. A simple manicure, an understated hairstyle and effortless makeup are recommended. Here are some ways to make a good impression at a job interview.
- Arrive on time.
- Sit down only after your interviewer invites you to do so.
- Be cordial and articulate well.
- Make eye contact.
- Maintain good posture.
- Stand up when anyone else is introduced to you.
- Remember to thank the interviewer at the beginning and the end of the interview.
- Silence your mobile device.
Dining Etiquette
When you’re in a formal setting, remember that each utensil has a purpose. When using silverware, start with the knife, fork, or spoon farthest from your plate. Then work your way inward, using one utensil for each course. Remember to put down your utensils before picking up a glass or cup. Don’t use your utensils to point or gesture. When you’ve finished your meal, don’t push your plate away from you. Instead, place your knife (with the blade in) and fork (with the tines up) together on your plate in a clock position of ten to four (with the handles at four) or at eleven to five (with the handles at five). This is a discreet way of informing your host that you’re finished with your meal.
Another practice is never to intercept a pass. For example, don’t snag a roll-out of the bread basket when it’s on the way to someone else. Always taste your food before putting on salt and pepper. It’s considered rude to assume the food is under-seasoned before tasting it. The salt and pepper make up a pair. They’re considered “married” and should always be passed together, even if someone asks only for one. Let your napkin remain on your lap throughout the entire meal. If you need to leave the table during the meal, place your napkin on your chair as a signal that you’ll be returning. Once the meal is over, place your napkin on the table to the right of your dinner plate. Don’t refold your napkin or wad it up. Remember that if you make a mistake, most people probably won’t know if you don’t call it to their attention. Avoid calling others out on improper etiquette because that shows worse manners than using the wrong fork. Always show grace to others as well as to yourself. And above all, remember to let the fruits of the Spirit be your guiding compass in practicing good etiquette!