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From the Founder
Etiquette and good manners are often associated with a ball room dancing, castles and odd rituals. Some might even say it’s old – fashioned. Etiquette is a timeless practice, as its purpose is to show respect and make everyone feel valued, comfortable, and at ease. Good manners enabled me to be extremely successful in Corporate America and is the inspiration behind my Etiquette consulting business, Manor of Manners. I can’t help but think of this quote by Etiquette expert, Jeanne Nelson, “degree will get your foot in the door, good manners will open it. ”In the US we refer good manners as good business and consider soft skills as a management tool. In fact, according a recent Stanford University study, 85 % of our success is based on our social skills. Honing one’s soft skills is a crucial element of achieving professional success. I would love to share 5 essential business etiquette tips with you today. These tips will help you present yourself and your business with ease, class and confidence.
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1. Communication
is one of the most important skills you will have as a business professional. Your non-verbal communication skills need to convey a positive professional, warm approach, because the client or business partner might not remember your name, but surely they will remember how you make them feel. Also, your verbal skills need to meet the necessary criteria for a business professional. Use polite words, do not use slang and bad language. While slang and the occasional curse word can give the illusion that you are relaxed, it often makes others uncomfortable.
2. Punctuality
In some countries, punctuality is not considered an essential element of professionalism but in the U.S. this is one of the most important components of a successful business. The U.S. believes time is money so being on time, shows your dedication to your job, business partners and clients. And respectively, indicates that you are capable of handling responsibilities. Let’s face it, who wants to work with a person, who doesn’t project a sense of commitment?
3. Proper attire
American culture values a relaxed look and formalities (especially in dress) can often seem outdated, especially here in San Diego. But how you dress has a meaning. Our attire reflects our presence and personality. Also, your attire demonstrates that you value and respect others and their events. There are basic guidelines for business attire, and we need to stay within them. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions regarding what to wear to a certain event.
4. Cyber civility and social networking
We realize that over 300 million people are using Facebook and this number is growing. We really need to be aware about the posts we share, and always need to ask ourselves, “is this appropriate?” or “is it possible this post could hurt somebody’s feelings?” People should be able to exchange thoughts and ideas in a very civil manner, without being a target of abuse. Be sure to distinguish your personal profile from your business’ page.
5. Competition and conflict
Competition is an inevitable part of business. The way we handle competition and conflict reveals our true colors. While competition can leave a bad taste in your mouth, let’s try to look at its silver lining. Also, try replacing competition with collaboration. I collaborate with my competitors and as a result, we are able to refer clients and work to one another. Collaboration and “healthy” competition shows maturity and demonstrates that your passion trumps the need to win. No matter the case, conflict has to be handled with grace and dignity.
Maryanne Parker
"Maryanne is a diligent student, who is enthusiastic about etiquette and protocol. She is good at human relations and likes to teach, especially to children, but also to the business community. She is patient and determined, Always ready to work hard" Luis Ritto, former Ambasador to the Holy Sea and International Protocol Expert, Brussels
"Maryanne practices what she preaches. She is professional, reliable and well presented. She understands her audience and connect on a personal level. I respectfully listen what she has to say. Highly recommended" Laury B., US
"Ms. Parker is a great teacher, highly informative and entertaining. Very impressed by her knowledge, regarding cross-cultural communication and International business etiquette. Highly recommended. Fahad B., Saudi Arabia
" Anya - (5 years old) after class with Ms. Parker -Mom, you know me and my friends are working on a big project, we would like to make the world a better place, where there are no bad people and everyone is nice. We will build a huge classroom, everybody will come and the teacher will teach them how to be nice to each other. And also , we should teach all thieves and bad people about Etiquette and we will live in a beautiful world where everyone is happy. Wouldn't that be awesome world. Mom. "
"Maryanne Parker is a gifted teacher. Her classes are fun and informative. I gained valuable insights from the Business Etiquette Workshop that I could immediately implement and improve how I present myself to others. Thanks, Maryanne!" Doreen DeAverey - US