Good Manners & General Etiquette

Make the right first impression with good manners and proper etiquette.

Etiquette is defined in the dictionary as "conventional requirements as to social behavior; proprieties of conduct as established in any class or community or for any occasion." Basically, etiquette is the way we are expected to behave in social situations. Using proper etiquette or good manners shows your respect for the event, community, place or people involved. It also is a demonstration of your character and shows that you are a person to be respected.

Etiquette in the U.S.

Etiquette rules can vary in different parts of the U.S.

The rules of etiquette vary in different cultures and countries. In the U.S., introductions and greetings are usually accompanied by shaking hands. Introductions are given without titles. The name and a small bit of information establishing common ground is given. For example: "Sean, I would like you to meet Mary Stewart, our new advertising representative." Or "Mary, this is Sean Connor, the president of our company."

In the U.S., respecting a person's personal space is considered a part of good etiquette. Americans can become uncomfortable when others stand too closely to them during conversations or at social events. The rules of etiquette apply to everyone in the U.S.; however, as the country is large, the rules can vary in different areas.

Etiquette in Mexico

Mexican etiquette is influenced by family behavior.

Etiquette traditions differ from country to country, For instance, in Mexico the family is at the center of the social structure and therefore influences what is considered proper etiquette. Interactions tend to be more familiar and a combination of informal and formal. When meeting, women pat each other on their right shoulder or forearm rather than shaking hands. Men shake hands unless they know someone well; then they use the traditional hug and black slap.

When invited to someone's home, arrive 30 minutes late, as arriving on time is considered inappropriate. If it is a small gathering, the host will introduce everyone. At a larger gathering, it is OK to introduce yourself. But wait until you are invited to use a Mexican person's first name.

English Etiquette

Formality is part of English etiquette.

Etiquette has a special role in the U.K. The English people are known for being undemonstrative. Introductions are best done through a third person. Firm handshakes are used with formal introductions but are not normally used after that. A man must wait for a woman to offer her hand before shaking her hand gently. The European greeting of exchanging kisses has gained acceptance in the younger groups but is not recommended for visitors.

Distance should be maintained during a conversation, and speaking loudly is completely unacceptable. The British use few words and make sure those words have meaning. They are polite and respectful and expect to be treated as such.

Thank-You Notes

A significant area of both personal and business proper etiquette is the thank-you note on paper. It is such a simple thing, and yet it is being done less and less, whether because of technology or a person's feeling inadequate in writing such a note. A thank-you note is simply an expression of gratitude after the fact. Now, when fewer letters and notes are being written and sent by mail, a thank-you note carries even more value.

A thank-you note should be sent as soon as possible and refer to the gift or action received. It can be written on a thank-you card, stationery, a note card or regular paper. It does not have to be formal; in fact, it can come across as more heartfelt when it is more personally written. The receiver will feel as if she too is getting a gift.

Role of Etiquette

Using good manners and proper etiquette help in making the right first impression and building personal and business relationships. When unsure, be aware of respecting those around you and err on the conservative side.

References

• Kwintessential: Mexico Etiquette
• Executive Planet: United Kingdom Public Behavior
• Emily Post: Etiquette Everyday - Communications