Polite Etiquette

Polite etiquette extends beyond table manners.

Rules of etiquette apply to every aspect of our daily lives; from sitting at the dinner table, to attending business meetings and introducing friends. Consultancies have been established with the sole purpose of advising large companies on proper business etiquette and many books have been published on the dos and don'ts of social politeness. Though some of the rules are complicated, the aim of good etiquette is to converse with others in a way that is respectful of their feelings and does not cause offense.

History of Etiquette

The first recorded writing on etiquette was by the philosopher Prah-Hotep during the Fifth Egyptian Dynasty between 3580BC and 3536BC. George Washington published the first rules of etiquette and manners in the United States. His "Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior in Company and Conversation" included 110 rules such as "Every Action done in Company, ought to be with Some Sign of Respect, to those that are Present" and "The Gestures of the Body must be Suited to the discourse you are upon." In 1922, Emily Post expanded etiquette beyond just society manners with her book "Etiquette: In Society, In Business, In Politics and at Home." Today many businesses employ consultants to train employees in good business etiquette.

Basic Etiquette

Although specific points of etiquette may differ between communities there are some basic rules which are generally accepted by most people. When it comes to table manners, for example, it is polite to chew with your mouth closed, always use your napkin and avoid putting your elbows on the table. Etiquette for a dinner party advises guests to arrive on time or even a little early, to offer to help the host in the kitchen and to thank the host twice. In some parts of the United States it is customary to thank the host by phone the day after the party or even to write them a letter of thanks if the event was more formal.

Etiquette Around the World

Although British etiquette is very similar to that of the United States, in Britain the Debrett's organization is generally considered to be the modern authority on etiquette and "fine style." However, other countries may have different rules when it comes to etiquette. In Bolivia, as well as many other countries, guests are not expected to be punctual for dinner parties and may arrive up to half an hour after the agreed time. Hand gestures are also a complex issue when it comes to etiquette; in Greece the okay sign is considered rude so a thumbs up is more appropriate.

References

• Pro-Etiquette: History of Etiquette
• Foundations Magazine: George Washington's Rules of Civility and Decent Behaviour in Company and Conversation
• Emily Post: Top Ten Table Manners
• Emily Post: Party Etiquette Tips for Hosts and Guests
• eDiplomat: Cultural Etiquette - Bolivia
• eDiplomat: Cultural Etiquette - Greece

Resources

• Etiquetteer
• Debrett's