The Etiquette Blog

The Etiquette Blog is a personal, social, and professional curriculum for success. Dedicated to the Quest for Civility in the modern world, each article informs and educates on topics related to being successful in life and work.

A new article is posted each week. You can search the over 550 current articles by typing a keyword in the search box to the right of your screen.

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Explore and enjoy!

Giving and Receiving Productive Feedback that Encourages Growth

Giving and Receiving Feedback

Every day spent with other people presents the opportunity for giving and receiving productive feedback. And both instances encourage growth of character.

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Bringing Out Your Best Behavior

Welcome Greeting

Being on your best behavior goes beyond following a set of rules. It is about being mindful of situations and people around you, respectful, and considerate.

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A Guide to Navigating Special Diets for Hosts and Guests

Various_foods

Navigating special diets at social events doesn’t have to be stressful. Planning and communication can ensure the table is a place of comfort and connection.

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Door Etiquette: Entering and Exiting with Others

Woman entering a door

Practicing door etiquette such as opening a door for someone or holding a door open for the person behind you, is an aspect of being mindful of other people.

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Ms. or Mrs. - A Modern Guide to Women's Forms of Address

Three Women Discussing Business Plans

The goal of any form of address is showing respect and consideration. Whether you choose Ms. or Mrs., the intention behind your choice matters most.

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The Etiquette of Moral Support

Women Holding Hands While Sitting on a Couch

One of the most meaningful gifts we exchange as social beings is moral support. It costs nothing, requires no special skill, but has the power to steady us.

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Being Teachable is a Most Important Part of Civility

Young and Old Together

Lifelong learners most easily grow and change along with society, using curiosity to their advantage. Indeed, being teachable is an important part of civility.

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Friendly Practices That Connect Us

Neighborly Care Package

Friendly practices are small, thoughtful gestures that bridge the gap between digital connections and the community disconnect that many people report feeling.

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Why We Should Use Last Names in Professional and Social Settings

Group of Positive, Diverse Colleagues

To use last names when addressing someone has become rare. It reflects a shift in how we signal respect, maintain boundaries, and navigate social hierarchies.

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Navigating Social Situations with People You Don't Enjoy

Bad Date

Attending a gathering or event with people you don’t enjoy spending time with? Good news! It is possible to navigate these situations with grace and dignity.

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Setting Your Holiday Table

Holiday Table Setting

When setting your holiday table with intention and care, it’s more than arranging plates and silverware — you're creating the stage for cherished memories.

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How to Host a Party: Etiquette Tips for Memorable Gatherings

Group of Friends Having a Dinner Party at Home

Planning to host a party this season? With proper planning and a solid understanding of hosting etiquette, you can create a memorable event without the stress.

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No Holiday Gifts - 'Tis the Season for a New Tradition?

Holiday Scenery

It’s the season of giving and you’re thinking no holiday gifts would be a nice rule for yourself this year. But how do you have that conversation with others?

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Master the Moment and Make a Good First Impression

Making a Good First Impression

A good first impression happens in an instant yet lingers long after. Learn how to navigate any first encounter and leave a lasting positive impact.

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Can You Agree to Disagree?

Friends Arguing

When you agree to disagree, you call a truce on a difference of opinion. You choose the path of civility and acknowledge that conflict doesn’t need a winner.

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Passing Items at the Table

Passing food at the table

Properly passing items at the table ensures meals flow smoothly, prevents accidents, and demonstrates respect. Here’s how to master this etiquette fundamental.

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Be the Best Cocktail Party Guest

Casual cocktails

Attending a networking event, a celebration, or an evening with friends? Knowing how to navigate a cocktail party with grace can make you the best guest.

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The Art of Exchanging Pleasantries in the Workplace

Businesss People

A fundamental yet often misunderstood aspect of office etiquette is exchanging pleasantries with colleagues. An underrated, but essential professional skill.

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Table Setting Etiquette

Table Tools

Table setting etiquette is a system, evolved over time, that ensures an orderly meal. It contains place settings that serve as maps, giving you a glimpse of what foods you are about to enjoy.

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Deal with Office Gossips and Help Tame the Rumor Mill

Taking a Gossip Break

Unfortunately, we all must deal with office gossips at some point – or several times – during our careers but there are methods to make this a fairly easy task.

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