4 Small Etiquette Tips for Large Impact on Your Presence
When it comes to mastering etiquette, people tend to think of big gestures, such as sporting a new wardrobe, sending thank you notes, and holding the door open for someone. These are all important and visible ways to show mindfulness, but even the most minor of details of your physical and social presence can make or break your etiquette skills.
Integrating these seemingly small mannerisms will positively change the way people perceive you. Here are 4 small etiquette tips that will make you closer to an etiquette expert.
Use someone’s name when meeting them.
It may be common sense to use a person’s name in social situations when referring to them, but many people forget to include their name in plenty of sentences like:
• “Thank you.”
• “It is nice to meet you.”
• “How are you doing?”
Including their name at the end of each sentence can make these statements much more personable. For example:
• “Thank you, John".
• “It is nice to meet you, Beth.”
• “How are you doing, Steven?"
This simple addition shows that you are paying attention to the details. We want to make sure everyone’s name is used to make them feel heard.
Give a proper handshake.
If you are in business, you already know the importance of a proper handshake; receiving a weak, awkward, or half-baked handshake can be a sign of disrespect, and we do not want to disrespect those with which we interact.
The best handshake is one that is firm, intentional, and short. If you are unsure if you are gripping too tight or too limp, try to find the point where you can easily move your hand but cannot simply slide it away.
Keep a smile on your face.
One of the biggest ways to make people feel comfortable in a space is by showing a smile. Using a bright smile while you are speaking will show someone that you are attentive, excited, and interested in what they have to say.
Just as important is keeping that smile hygienic. Make sure you are presentable before engaging with someone; nobody likes to see a piece of food stuck in your teeth! If it happens in the middle of an engagement, kindly step away to the restroom.
Wait to begin an activity until everyone is present.
Whether you’re dining or holding an event, it can be hard when the time strikes and everybody is not ready to begin.
As long as you are informed of others whereabouts, unless otherwise discussed, you should wait to begin an event or meal until everyone else is ready. Now, if someone is running very late or has not confirmed their status, it is perfectly acceptable to start an event. However, you must make sure prior that everyone is on the same page.
Though these may seem small, using these in practice will drastically improve your etiquette skills and make you a more thoughtful person. Making sure that these habits are a part of your behavioral repetoire will ensure your social success.