The Etiquette Blog
The Etiquette Blog is dedicated to the Quest for Civility in the modern world. Our goal with each article is to answer your etiquette questions on table manners, your social life, the work environment and more.
A new article is posted each week. You can search the over 225 current articles by typing a keyword in the search box to the right of your screen.
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Explore and enjoy!
A Modern Definition of Etiquette
A definition of etiquette includes the ways we show up in our behaviors. At its core are the principles of good manners: respect, courtesy, tact, restraint, self-command, and responsibility.
Giving Appropriate Compliments on Jewelry
A compliment on jewelry is meaningful. When a person chooses to accessorize with jewelry, they have privately, and perhaps subconsciously, made a decision about what complements their style.
Continue reading "Giving Appropriate Compliments on Jewelry"
Adulting into Adulthood
“Adulting” means conducting yourself as an adult when you're on the verge of becoming an adult. But there is a difference between an adult-in-progress and someone who "adults" once in a while.
14 Tips for Hosting a Restaurant Dinner
Entertaining at a restaurant calls for attention to detail, so the “pre-work” is important. No matter the occasion, these fourteen considerations will make your restaurant dinner party a success!
To Be a Lady in the 21st Century
Is the term “lady” and the traditions that go along with it becoming obsolete? I hope not, as some of the strongest, most respectable people I know are ladies.
Should You Give Back an Unwanted Gift?
Receiving a gift is always a special occasion. Except when it's an unwanted gift. What does a polite person do when faced with this conundrum?
Proper Dress for Court
Your appearance in a courtroom or house of government calls for proper dress. What you wear signals the importance of the occasion and expresses your attitude and confidence.
How to Ask for a Raise
Before you ask for a raise, you must be prepared to prove you should have one. It’s a stage set for nervousness. Regardless, you aim to be respectful, courteous, and maintain your dignity.
Parking Lot Etiquette
We all have experiences testifying to the anxiety Saturday shopping can cause. But even this occasion can be made less stressful when everyone observes parking lot etiquette.
Accepting “No” as an Answer
Whenever you think you deserve a “yes” and are told “no” you probably shift into the attitude of, “Don’t take ‘no’ for an answer!” Why is accepting “no” such a difficult thing to do?
When You Can't Forgive
You view yourself as a kind, forgiving person and you hope to always be so. But something has happened, an apology was owed and has been given, yet you can’t bring yourself to forgive the person or the situation.
Are You Using Your Inside Voice?
Has anyone ever asked you to use your “inside” voice? What they mean is that you are talking too loudly. It’s a not-too-subtle request to speak more quietly.
How to Compliment Someone's Clothing
You probably enjoy receiving compliments because it means the personal statement you’ve created with your clothing is noticed and appreciated. But complimenting clothing can sometimes have a catch.
Using Kindness When Sharing Bad News
Bad news has the power to change a person’s view of the future and will be immediately perceived in a negative way. But kindness can help lessen the immediate effect of stress and anxiety.
Using Diplomacy to Create an Agreeable Situation
There is an art to navigating disagreements. Stand your ground? Give in to avoid an argument? Or exercise diplomacy and listen to your counterpart, doing your best to create a win-win scenario?
Continue reading "Using Diplomacy to Create an Agreeable Situation"
Handbags, Bags, and Briefcases Appropriate for Meetings
Being uncluttered signals preparation and organization. Combining your handbag with a tote bag, briefcase, business backpack or computer bag frees one hand to open doors and greet others.
Continue reading "Handbags, Bags, and Briefcases Appropriate for Meetings"
Balancing Space and Life When You Work from Home
Balancing a shared household is a challenge when you work from home. But the challenge can be met with courtesy, respect for space and priorities, and willingness to compromise when needed.
Continue reading "Balancing Space and Life When You Work from Home"
When Life Events Are Turned Into Object Lessons
Object lessons exist to teach us a better path. But when used as a response to something personal you’ve shared, they only serve to chill the conversation.
Continue reading "When Life Events Are Turned Into Object Lessons"
Controlling a Situation vs. Being in a Situation
Unless they are controlling a situation, some people have no idea how to be in one. Etiquette guidelines allow you to know when all that is required is that you be present.
Continue reading "Controlling a Situation vs. Being in a Situation"
Candace Smith Etiquette appears in:
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Candace Smith Etiquette
Orange, CA
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