Majestic Etiquette USA

Tip # 37 Responding to Others

One of the many advantages of technological advancements is that we can communicate with others in a wide variety of ways. Of course, a disadvantage is that we find ourselves tethered to devices and sometimes overwhelmed by the constant communication. It is certainly unrealistic to expect to respond immediately to every text, voicemail, and email; however, it is appropriate to acknowledge receipt of important communication within 24 hours. For example, “I have received your message and will get back with you.” While it might not be your intention, not responding can lead others to believe you are ignoring, dismissing, or possibly even disrespecting them (depending upon the sender). Remember, etiquette is about helping others feel acknowledged and respected.

Tip #36 Deference

In the world of business, it is critically important to accept the chain of command. As such, deference is an essential element in professional settings. For instance, whenever you are conducting business, facilitating an interview, or presiding over a meeting and someone of higher rank enters, it is appropriate to immediately acknowledge him/her by name and title. Next, yield the floor to him/her to receive remarks or input. Your willingness to defer to others demonstrates sound judgement, high emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. These traits will help brand you as both professionally and socially savvy.

Tip # 35 Recharge

Despite the global pandemic, many professionals find themselves busier than ever with even more responsibilities. Most have had to tap into new levels of creativity and flexibility that require a new measure of energy. As such, it is important to schedule time to unplug and recharge. How does this relate to etiquette? Each of us is more likely to be kind and gracious to others when we operate from a full tank, not an empty one. Determine today that you will not keep powering through your endless schedule of video conferences, meetings, and appointments. Instead, schedule time just for you. The Italians call it, “dolce far niente.” Translation: the sweetness of doing nothing!

Tip #34

Showing You Care

Given we spend a considerable amount of time with our work colleagues, building relationships with them is a natural by-product. It is possible to balance being professional with healthy boundaries and demonstrating care and concern. For example, if you know a colleague’s family members live in the path of a hurricane, the wildfires or have contracted COVID-19, take the time today to check in with your colleague and inquire about his family. In the words of Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”  Etiquette helps those around us feel visible and acknowledged.

Etiquette Tip #33

Following Up

At the conclusion of meetings or after resolving an issue with clients, we tend to feel accomplished and ready to encounter our next task.  Yet, superior customer service and exceptional etiquette includes going the extra mile by following up with others when we offer them a solution or suggest a course of action. Consider calling, emailing, (or texting when appropriate) to ask them for a status update or offer additional help a few days later. This act of thoughtfulness helps others feel that you value them and their contributions.  Remember, etiquette is simply showing kindness and helping those around us feel acknowledged and respected.

Tip #32 Accepting Feedback Gracefully

Although no one enjoys being criticized, feedback is generally offered to help improve one’s professional performance and skills. Having a growth mindset enables one to accept feedback with an open mind, not a defensive posture. Though your ego might be a bit bruised to hear about ways you have missed the mark, honestly ask yourself if you could possibly have a blind spot in areas of your life that could benefit from the insight of someone else.
The next time your boss, mentor or professional coach offers you feedback, shift your mindset to appraise it as a gift that can help you grow, develop, and improve. Thank them for investing in you, then examine yourself to determine how you can apply the wisdom.

Tip #31 Political Civility
As Americans, we are notoriously opinionated, passionate, and expressive about most things in life. Some would argue this is best demonstrated during our presidential election seasons. Etiquette and social civility apply to all facets of life, including politics. For your consideration:
1. Refrain from making political comments in professional and business settings. You are certainly entitled to your beliefs but could offend a colleague or client who might hold a different position.
2. Refrain from creating or sharing social media posts that could be viewed as disparaging or derogatory. Again, such expressions could create a public relations crisis for your company and consequently jeopardize your career.
3. When a customer or client attempts to engage you in a political conversation, navigate out of the conversation quickly and gracefully. Taking such an approach could preserve a long-term business relationship.
4. When you do engage in sharing your political opinion in appropriate environments where others might hold different positions, do so respectfully. It is possible to engage in a spirited debate without resorting to name-calling, derogatory terms or bullying others to accept your stance.

Etiquette Tip #30
Wecoming a New Team Member

Starting a new job can be equally exciting and stressful. Why not help ease the transition of your new team member? Offer a warm, gracious welcome by taking the initiative to introduce yourself, answer questions and offer tips for workplace success. Doing so will help your new colleague feel valued and included and will also help brand yourself as a teamplayer and emerging leader.

Etiquette Tip #29

Cell Phone Use in Public

Multitasking is certainly a great way to make efficient use of time. However, engaging in phone conversations while tending to other tasks in p***c is sometimes inappropriate. For example, discussing a client’s business in the hearing of others while you are shopping in the store, boarding an airplane, riding a subway, or approaching an elevator is not proper etiquette. Not only should you keep your client’s business discreet, it is socially appropriate to be considerate of those in earshot. Similarly, realize when you place clients on speakerphone while you are driving, it is possible for those nearby to hear your conversation when you stop at traffic signals or are parking.

Finally, a good general tip to remember is to give your attention to the person who is physically standing before you. So the next time you are in the checkout line, consider placing your caller on hold or even call them back after you have completed your transaction. Doing so gives you an opportunity to engage the cashier and those around you—a lovely way to be gracious and considerate.

Etiquette Tip #28

Make Thoughtful Song Selections

Music has a way of lightening the mood and setting an enjoyable tone for both virtual and in-person meetings. When compiling a playlist for the enjoyment of your colleagues at your next meeting, be sure to screen the lyrics of the songs. A quick Google search will help you discover what your favorite artist is saying. Many artists release multiple versions of their songs. Be sure to choose the “Radio Version.” Since etiquette involves helping your colleagues feel respected and comfortable, you certainly don’t want to offend them with someone else’s words.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #27
How to End a Conversation Politely

Do you find it challenging to end conversations with people who you know to be extremely talkative?

Begin with the end in mind and frame the conversation to manage the other party’s conversation expectation. For instance, “Hi Chris, I’m between meetings now and only have about five minutes to chat. What can I do for you?”

After setting such a tone, you will be able to extract yourself tactfully from the conversation: “Well, as I mentioned, I’m off to my next appointment. It was good talking to you. Have a good day.”

Majestic Etiquette is a proud recipient of the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce 2020 Business of Excellence Award. Thank you for the incredible honor.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #24

Preparing for Virtual Interviews

In the current pandemic climate, many corporations and organizations are opting for virtual interviews. Here are a few tips for your consideration.

1. Test your technology to ensure you have strong internet and audio connections.

2. Wipe the camera lens of your laptop to ensure you are being viewed as clearly as possible.

3. Choose a well-lit setting that is free of clutter and potential distractions.

4. Dress as if you were interviewing in person. Your attire sets the tone for your professionalism.

5. Have your resume and notes at hand for reference.

6.Be mindful of your non-verbal expressions—smile when appropriate; avoid frowning and excessive hand gestures.

7. Look into the camera while speaking, not at the screen. This gives the illusion of eye contact and engagement which will help the interviewer feel more connected to you.

8. Keep your energy level high throughout the process. Your enthusiasm is mission-critical in a virtual setting.

9. BONUS: Go the extra mile and practice a mock virtual interview via an online platform with a mentor or colleague. Their candid feedback can help you make minor adjustments to present yourself as a confident, polished professional in a virtual space.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #23 Unconscious Bias PART TWO

Last week, we established unconscious or implicit biases are shortcuts our brains take to process information and make decisions quickly. Regrettably, our biases can sometimes influence us to make decisions that can negatively impact others. While it does take work to disrupt these patterns of behavior, self-reflection and soul-searching are the first steps towards behaving differently.
Be willing to challenge yourself in these ways:

1. When considering stereotypes and generalizations about those who differ from you, ask yourself how did I gain this belief and where did I learn to think this way?

2. Recognize your biases can impact the decisions you make in ways that can be harmful to others. As such, take time to learn more about groups or individuals your biases could negatively impact.

3. Be willing to give others who are different from you the opportunity to demonstrate their value and skills.

4. Listen carefully to those who differ from you without demonstrating a quick rush to judgment.

5. If you are feeling brave, consider taking a free online assessment that evaluates bias. The Implicit Association Test can be accessed at www.implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/

Etiquette Tip Tuesday # 22 Unconscious Bias PART ONE
In light of the senseless killing of Ahmaud Arbery, Breanna Taylor, George Floyd and the tragically long list of many others, our nation is long overdue examining and addressing our unconscious bias. The term unconscious bias refers to the automatic mental shortcut our brains make to process information and make decisions quickly. These quick judgments are sometimes inaccurate as they are based on limited facts, our own life experiences and deep held beliefs. These judgments can provide favor and unearned advantages to some people groups or individuals while providing unearned disadvantages to others in the world and in the workplace.
As progressive professionals in a global market, it is incumbent upon us to slow down and think about the way we think. Working with people of diverse backgrounds provides a wonderful opportunity to grow both professionally and personally. Have the courage to be open to dispel myths or misconceptions you might accept subconsciously.

Tune in next week for some practical tips to help combat the harmful effects of unconscious bias.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #21
Leaving a Job Gracefully

As you transition from a job, inform your key clients, colleagues, and customers. Thank everyone who has gone above and beyond to help you. Do not burn any bridges and stay in touch with former colleagues as you continue to expand your network of professionals. Finally, go the extra mile and create a smooth transition for your replacement. Your former employer will appreciate the gesture and consider you a real class act.

It was my pleasure to present a Virtual Meeting Etiquette workshop to local business owners and leaders in my community. Thank you to for the invitation.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #20

Navigating Competing Priorities

While performance accountability is necessary and a reasonable expectation in any professional climate, it is important for team leaders to be sensitive to the fact that employees are navigating competing priorities as best they can during the present pandemic. As such, team leaders will often get better results from team members when leaders extend grace, are willing to be flexible and demonstrate empathy.

Some tips for your consideration:

1. Only schedule meetings with your team when they are absolutely necessary. Resist the urge to monopolize their day to “ensure” they are working.

2. If multiple meetings are scheduled in a day, create blocks of time between the meetings for team members to tend to other needs that may arise (e.g. children who need help with their schoolwork).

3. In this space of great uncertainty and emotional turmoil, sometimes people just need to take a mental health break from work. Once refreshed, they often return stronger and ready for high performance.

The bottom line for team leaders: employing sensitivity, flexibility and understanding will help cultivate a culture of civility on your team and will help your team members appreciate you even more as their leader.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday
#19 Non-Verbal Expressions

As many professionals across the globe continue to employ digital platforms for virtual meetings, it is worth highlighting the importance of maintaining pleasant facial expressions while on camera. Dr. Albert Mehrabian’s groundbreaking communication work revealed that words represent just 7% of our communication, tone of voice accounts for 38%, and a whopping 55% of our communication comes from nonverbal signals, such as body language and facial expressions.

So my friends, even though you might not be physically in the same room as your colleagues, and you might not utter a single word online, they are still able to detect your irritation, disdain and downright annoyance by watching the expressions that appear on your face. Make it your mission to keep your facial expressions pleasant; doing so helps your professional brand as a self-aware team player.

By the way, they also see when you are distracted and not paying attention.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #18 Thanking Teachers

As the nation celebrates Teacher Appreciation Week this week, take the time to thank educators. Their creativity, innovation, dedication, and flexibility during this pandemic have only confirmed that they are among our nation’s unsung heroes. Take time this week to express your appreciation to an educator. Consider providing a handwritten note, emailing a virtual gift card, or having a special treat delivered to their home. Your expression of kindness will certainly help an educator feel appreciated and valued.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #17

Video Conference Etiquette
PART TWO

6. Review the meeting agenda to determine when you will speak. Be prepared by having your notes at hand and ready to present when the meeting host calls upon you. Similarly, carefully think through questions you intend to ask and submit them in the chat box, or wait to be acknowledged by the host to have a turn to ask them verbally.

7. When speaking, sit tall so that your voice projects well. Speak clearly and distinctly to help ensure everyone can both hear and understand you.

8. Be sure to state your name before you begin speaking, as some video conference platform configurations won’t automatically feature your screen when you speak.

9. If you have visual presentations to be displayed for all, respectfully adhere to the submission deadline given by the technology administrator. If s/he doesn’t provide a deadline, simply ask. S/he will appreciate having adequate time to prepare in advance.

10. Be mindful that it is important to be engaging and energetic if you are leading the conference.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #16

Video Conference Etiquette
PART ONE

1. Choose attire that is business casual or the theme set by the host.

2. Select a private location equipped with adequate lighting, minimal background noise and distractions; select a space with an appealing backdrop.

3. Log-in a minimum of ten minutes prior to the meeting to familiarize yourself with the audio/visual settings. Test your camera, speakers, microphone and ensure your internet signal is strong.

4. Mute your line when you are not speaking.

5. Demonstrate respect for the speaker by giving your full attention. If you must step away from the conference, disable your camera and re-enable it upon your return.

PART TWO will be posted 4/28/20

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #15

Email Etiquette

1. Always include a relevant, direct subject line to provide convenient referencing for the recipient.

2. Keep your communication clear and concise. Avoid rambling and ambiguous statements that could lead to multiple interpretations of your intentions.

3. Only “Reply All” when necessary. Doing so unnecessarily will not only frustrate those who don’t benefit from your communication, but it could potentially expose you in unintended ways.

4. Proof your work before you send.

5. Don’t send reactionary emails when you are irritated, angry or frustrated. Allow yourself time to cool off, then be measured and gracious in your response.

6. Remember what’s in writing lives forever, so don’t write what you wouldn’t want your boss, a jury in court, or the public to read.

7.While written communication is convenient, tone can sometimes be misunderstood. If it appears the recipient needs more clarification, consider trading the email exchange for a phone call.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #14
Couples and Roommate Quarantine Etiquette PART TWO

1. Spend time apart: It is essential for maintaining sound mental health to have times of solitude and decompressing. As such, graciously grant each other intentional time apart from each other. This could be expressed through exercising, walking, taking a trip to the pharmacy or even sitting on the patio or watching a TV show alone.

2. Rediscover or explore a mutually enjoyable hobby that perhaps you have neglected due to the constant demands of life before the quarantine (e.g. board games, karaoke, learning a line dance, creating artwork for your home, etc). Be considerate to take turns when deciding the activity so that one person doesn’t dominate the decision-making.

3. Tidy up after yourself: Be considerate and put items in their proper place. A pleasant and neat space is a simple gift that provides a sanctuary in the midst of the turbulent world around us.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday

Couples and Roommate Quarantine Etiquette PART ONE

Before beginning a career as an Etiquette Consultant, I spent 20 years as a marriage counselor (and continue to work with a limited clientele). As many couples and roommates are both working from home during this climate of quarantine, even the healthiest of relationships can benefit from a few reminders:

1. Respect each other's boundaries.
SOUND: Establish mutual times of shared sound space and times of isolated work space. Be sensitive to ambient TV sounds, music and telephone conversations that can overload a partner's/roommate's senses if he or she is desiring time to focus or have silence.

LIGHTS: Be considerate of the threshold of lights as one might prefer natural light or darkness while another prefers artificial lights. Communicate your preferences and respect each other's desires accordingly.

SMELL: Be mindful of your food choices (e.g. don't opt for seafood if your partner/roommate has a seafood allergy) and be careful as not to burn your food, as this will cause an unpleasant odor to linger in your shared space.

PRIVACY: If you notice your roommate/partner is having a private conversation or conducting business, offer the courtesy of privacy!

PART TWO will be posted 4/7/20

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #12
Social Distancing and Supermarket Etiquette
In the climate of social distancing, one of the few places many people are continuing to frequent is the supermarket. Kindly consider these tips to make the experience as pleasant as possible for all shoppers and employees:
1. Be mindful of maintaining six feet distance for the comfort of those around you. Remember, some people are on edge and are experiencing heightened anxiety in these uncertain times.
2. If you feel someone is encroaching upon your personal space and you begin to feel uncomfortable, employ diplomacy by taking the high road in your approach. “Please excuse me. I think we’re getting a bit too close, so I will move aside so that we can both feel comfortable.”
3. When touching the keypad or stylus upon checking out with a credit/debit card, feel free to wipe the surfaces with disinfectant wipes before and after (using a second, fresh wipe) you complete the transaction.
4. Should you use gloves or wipes, dispose of them properly in the nearest trash bin.
5. Thank the employees! They are providing valuable service and many are going above and beyond to keep the stores well-sanitized and orderly.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday # 11

Social Distancing and Our New Normal

In the new normal of social distancing, it is important that we maintain our business and personal relationships the best ways we can. Simply put, stay connected! Reach out to team members, colleagues, clients and those in your circle of influence. Share inspiring stories, words of encouragement, new recipes, or simply enjoy light-hearted conversations. Staying engaged is important to our overall mental health and well being; it is also a healthy outlet to express our soft skills. Despite our isolation, the core of who we are remains the same—social creatures in need of human interaction. Who will you call today?

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #10
Group Communication Etiquette

When participating in group communication via text and email, be sure to limit the conversation to information that benefits the group. Should you desire to make comments or ask questions of an individual, refrain from doing so in the group. Simply reach out to that individual privately. The group will appreciate not being inundated with irrelevant, excessive messages.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #9

Hygiene Etiquette
1. If you are not well and possibly contagious, stay home! Your co-workers will appreciate your consideration of not putting their health at risk. If you feel well enough to work and prefer not to take a “sick day,” ask your boss if you can work from home if your job permits.
2. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you must sneeze or cough. Be sure to dispose of the tissue properly, then wash your hands. A simpler option is to sneeze or cough into your elbow. Whatever you do, don’t sneeze or cough into your hand!
3. Always wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
4. Always use serving utensils or a napkin when grabbing food served buffet style or left in a public space for all to enjoy.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #8

Airline Etiquette PART TWO

8. While the window shade is controlled by the window seat passenger, s/he should be aware that the angle of sunlight might be in another passenger’s face and should adjust the shade with such consideration.

9. While you certainly have the option to recline your seat, do so in a thoughtful way. Consider asking the passenger seated directly behind you if they object. Afterall, reclining might be comfortable for you, but it could make a tight space even tighter for someone with long legs. If they express no objection, recline slowly so that they have time to adjust. Also, wait until that passenger has finished meal service.

10. Respect the boundaries and watch the social cues of your seat mates. If they avoid eye contact or answer your questions with short, unenthused responses, they probably prefer not to engage in conversation. If that is the case, leave them alone!

11. If you must talk on your phone while on the plane, be mindful that your phone conversations are in the hearing of the public. Keep your calls brief and your volume low.

12. Thank your flight crew, including the pilot, as you disembark the plane.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #7

Airline Etiquette PART ONE (Part Two will be posted on 2/25/20)

1. Given you will be in close quarters with others, give special consideration to your grooming; however, avoid excessive use of cologne, scented lotions or other fragrances.

2. Have your ID and boarding pass in hand as you approach security. Remove jewelry, belts & items in plastic bags expeditiously as you approach the conveyor belt.

3. Greet your flight crew pleasantly as you board the plane.

4. While finding your seat, be mindful of the tight space and keep your bags close to your body in front of you so that you don’t hit passengers.

5. Place your bag vertically in the overhead bin to maximize space for other passengers. Similarly, place over-sized coats and garments on the floor in front of your seat.

6. If possible, consider changing seats to allow family members or colleagues to sit together.

7. The armrests belong to the middle seat passenger (a small consolation prize). Be mindful of your elbow placement and keep your legs within the width of your seat frame.

Stay tuned for Part Two of Airline Etiquette

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #6

Name Badge Placement

Always wear your name tag/badge on the right side. Doing so will ensure it is prominently displayed for easy viewing for those whose hand you shake. Remember, we wear them on the right because we shake with our right hand.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #5
The Handshake
1. As the hiring manager approaches, smile and stand up
2. Look him/her in the eye, offer greetings
3. The interviewer will usually extend his/her hand first; however, if that doesn’t occur, be sure to extend your right hand without missing a beat
4. Slide your palm into the interviewer’s hand to the end of his/her palm
5. Lock thumb joint to thumb joint and offer a firm clasp
6. Give a quick, gentle press and shake their hand with only 2-3 pumps
7. Acknowledge the interviewer by name as you offer a pleasantry, “It is a pleasure to meet you, Bill; I am Linda Coleman.”
8. Avoid pumping more than 2-3 times: Excessive hand pumping communicates a lack of restraint and poise
9. Avoid a limp handshake: Limp handshakes communicate lack of confidence
10. Avoid a bone-crushing squeeze: Excessive squeezing communicates aggression and overly competitiveness
11. Avoid employing a second hand by placing your left hand on top: Placing your hand on top demonstrates an intention to dominate
12. BONUS: Demonstrate respect and confidence by shaking hands with each interviewer at the onset and the conclusion of the interview. Many hiring managers are offended when candidates don’t conclude the interview with a closing handshake.

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #4

Dining Etiquette at Business Networking Events for Job Interviews

1. Be sure to eat a small amount before you arrive at the event so that you are less likely to overeat in front of prospective employers.

2. Never pile food on your plate. Eating a modest amount allows you to demonstrate restraint, discipline and impulse control.

3. Select simple foods for quick and easy consumption. Avoid foods with sauces and glazes (to reduce the risk of spilling onto your attire). Similarly, avoid foods that are more likely to get stuck between your teeth.

4. Hold your plate in your left hand so that your right hand is unoccupied and available for handshakes. If you are served wine, place the glass on your plate and secure the foot of the glass with your thumb while holding the bottom of the plate with your remaining fingers. When you desire a sip, place the glass in your right hand and hold it by the stem (holding the glass by the bowl is more likely to cause your right hand to become clammy). Again, this keeps your right hand dry and ready for handshakes.

5. Take small bites and sips so that you can converse with grace and ease.

6. Bonus: Remember you are there for the job, not the food and wine, so don’t become distracted by your appetite. Once you secure the job you desire, you will be able to celebrate by treating yourself to an extraordinary meal paired with the perfect wine!

Etiquette Tip Tuesday #3 Conference Call Etiquette

1. Dial-in before the meeting begins to allow yourself time to
address any unexpected technical difficulties.

2. If prompted to identify yourself by an automated recording, resist the urge to blurt out your name! Pause to observe if anyone else is speaking. When the “floor” is open, state your name. Similarly, don’t announce yourself if you are late. Doing so will interrupt the flow of the speaker. A discreet way to let others know you have joined the call is to participate by offering feedback or asking a question when appropriate.

3. When you are not speaking, mute your line so that others are not distracted by the ambient sounds of your environment.

4. Should you have a conversation collision and speak at the same time as another caller, simply apologize, yield to him, then speak when he is done.

5.Identify yourself each time when you speak.

6. Be sure to keep your mouth near the mouthpiece so that you can be heard clearly.

BONUS: standing while speaking will help you project better and sound more energetic.