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"Etiquette is not about being 'stuffy.' It's about putting yourself forward in the best possible way, using courtesy to others as your guide, while still allowing your own personality to shine!"
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I help individuals and businesses polish their ability to stand out among their competition.
Visit my website to see what I can do for you!
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How does the song go? "Friends and family who are dear to us, gather near to us..." Well, I may be taking a few liberties with the words but for some, there is nothing more exciting than the thought of friends and family, all gathered round. For others, it's an "Oh, this is going to hurt!" type of event.
No matter what the situation, and regardless of the time of year, difficulties with others can arise. Add in familial relationships, holiday stress, too many sweets, perhaps some travel and, well, we all get it.
May I offer some suggestions for coping with a few of the potential difficulties:
1. What to do if someone brings up an uncomfortable subject -- or once again hounds you about things that are none of their business? Keep in mind that a little humor and a light touch can make all the difference.
Just because someone has the nerve to ask you a question doesn't mean you are obligated to answer it ... even if it comes from your grandmother. For example: "Do you have a better job yet? ... Why are you so heavy; do you eat too much?" etc.
If this is a repetitive theme, try some humor. "Oh, grandma, are you asking me that again?" and smile as you walk away, change the subject or reach for another piece of pie.
If a discussion starts to become heated at the table, a light hearted "Wow, this is getting to be too much; let's enjoy our meal!" and then introduction of a new topic will probably bring relief to all.
2. You have special dietary concerns or simply don't care for some of the food being served.
It is all right to check in with your host in advance as to the menu but don't make your dietary issues her problem. "Say, Karen, I want to touch base with you about the dinner. I am a vegetarian and would be happy to bring a dish, if you like." The other alternative is to stay quiet and plan on eating the salad and side dishes.
However, if you have a food allergy, such as shellfish or nuts, do call and let the host know ahead of time. Sitting at a table as the food is being served and suspiciously asking "Are there nuts in this?" puts everyone in an awkward position.
3. If you receive a gift that you don't like, don't understand or are disappointed by, the only appropriate response is "Thank you" or "How thoughtful of you!" You can always re-gift or get rid of it later. After all, it is the thought that counts.
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Remember...
When you become involved in an interaction, what you say and do is what matters -- not the other person's actions or words. How you handle those awkward, unpleasant and downright difficult situations will reflect on you and no one else.
A little humor, a light approach, and taking the high road will almost always be the better way to go.
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Please feel free to send me any of your
etiquette or customer service questions or stories!
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Jodi Blackwood
Business Etiquette & Customer Service Specialist
Speaker & Seminar Leader
"Etiquette is about polishing your approach,
not changing who you are."
mailto:jodi@jodiblackwood.com
360-798-4912
www.jodiblackwood.com
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