Sometimes it seems there is a holiday for everything, and civility is no exception! May 11th through the 15th is National Etiquette Week and the theme is about spreading courtesy, kindness and good manners in all areas of American life, including business, social, dining, travel, technology, wedding and international protocol.
How you are perceived by those around you is vital. It will dictate whether they want to do business with you -- or not, refer you to colleagues, friends and family members -- or not, or even take a few moments to become better acquainted.
1. Listening is one of the most important aspects of interacting with others there is. It has a major impact on your job effectiveness and the quality of your relationships. There is a reason you have two ears and only one mouth!
2. It is predicted that one billion mobile phones will be sold worldwide in 2009. At the same time, email is also a method of communication used by millions of people around the world. When you are talking with a person face-to-face, be with THAT person! Constantly checking phones and messages shows your attention is divided; perhaps you are looking to see if something more important -- or interesting? -- is coming along. It's noticed.
3. Spread the use of please, thank you and you're welcome around. You learned these phrases very early on but it's amazing how far they have fallen from the wayside. They aren't called the "magic words" for nothing!
|
|
Remember...
Good manners,
friendliness and approachability need to be a part of you, in your
everyday life, not something you put on like a jacket in specific
situations. Like anything, they take practice.
Any time you interact with someone, you have the
opportunity to build your reputation or diminish it. Being friendly and courteous should not be an act ... the key is to be genuine, and have fun with it!
|
