Keeping the Art of Etiquette Alive
I’ve always been intrigued with what people consider the “lost arts”. I was grandma chic before the influencers picked it up and I’m not talking about wearing cable knit sweaters and loafers. I’m more of your rocker grandma who still wears her original Stevie Nicks concert tee and gives everyone the peace sign.
The arts I’m talking about are the skills your grandma had – that many have no clue how to do. So, I was grandma chic when teaching myself how to can my garden vegetables or aggressively protecting my cast iron skillet from soapy water.
Most importantly, my friends and family will tell you that I’m the first to send a handwritten note – in the mail – on my personalized stationery with a seasonal stamp. The most common response to all these learning adventures has been “it's a lost art”.
It is sad to think of what “arts” may have been lost through the pandemic. Have our connections to one another become a lost art?
Business etiquette is a skill and artform that has built strong relationships for decades – even centuries. Etiquette is much more than table manners and much less than snobbery. Etiquette sets the foundation to build prosperous relationships. When we are confident in a variety of situations, then we spend less time anxious about the correct way to do something and allowing more mental capacity to give to the real reasons we are there. Etiquette is also the first step in building trust with others. Paying special attention to how you present yourself and treat others strengthens that trust.
Consider how far we are from the original forms of business – in person meetings, fax machines, memo pads, at home cocktail parties, and having your boss or clients in your home for dinner. Picking up the phone to do business – listening to their voice and tone. Professionals perfected these arts and what a shame for them to be in jeopardy.
I’m on a personal mission to help keep the Art of Etiquette Alive. Sharing with you the skills, practices, and basics of treating others with respect, consideration, and graciousness. Think of me as your big sister who wants to save you from embarrassment and build your confidence for any situation.
