The Etiquette Blog

The Etiquette Blog is a personal, social, and professional curriculum for success. Dedicated to the Quest for Civility in the modern world, each article informs and educates on topics related to being successful in life and work.

A new article is posted each week. You can search the over 500 current articles by typing a keyword in the search box to the right of your screen.

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Explore and enjoy!

Our World Needs a Civilizing Influence

Community Garden Sign

No matter where we live, we are all collaborators in making society work. Our world needs a civilizing influence, and we are each responsible for creating it.

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The Art of Diplomatic Communication

Business People Discussing Project in a Cafe

Diplomatic communication is the cornerstone of successful relationships, whether in professional settings, personal interactions, or international relations.

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Everyday Etiquette in Daily Life

Business People Chatting Outdoors

Common courtesies and everyday etiquette in daily life are essential for ensuring social and professional interactions run smoothly.

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Five Etiquette Tips to Begin Using Today!

Top Tips

When students ask me how to implement etiquette in their daily journeys, here are the five etiquette tips I always recommend to get them started.

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Navigating Holiday Gift-Giving Etiquette Without the Stress

Under the Christmas Tree

The holidays should be a time of joy, yet navigating holiday gift-giving can be overwhelming. Follow this guide for handling delicate gifting situations.

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The Art of Writing Thank-You Notes

Thank-You Message

The first rule of writing thank-you notes is to do it. And once you master this simple template, you will churn them out easily, quickly and sincerely.

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Be a Memorable Cocktail Party Guest

Friends Enjoying a Rooftop Party

In the world of social gatherings, a cocktail party presents an opportunity to shine. A memorable cocktail party guest networks and creates lasting impressions.

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Making Meaningful Memories This Holiday Season

Standing Near a Christmas Tree

The holiday season is more than festive decorations and gift exchanges—it's an opportunity for making meaningful memories with the people who matter most.

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Creative Gratitude Goes Above and Beyond a Thank-You

Thank You Wooden Blocks

In a world where quick text messages and casual "thanks" have become the norm, creative gratitude stands out as a meaningful way to express genuine appreciation.

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Be a Memorable Dinner Party Guest

Dinner Party with Festive Table

Hosting a meal requires planning and a lot of effort, which is why a host’s most memorable dinner party guest is one who makes the work worthwhile.

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Responding to “What Do You Really Think?”

Coworkers Discussing Office Issues

The question, “What do you really think?” is complex in social interactions. While it invites candor, there's often subtext that creates a delicate situation.

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Maintaining Respectful Conversations During Polarized Times

Young People Having Coffee and Talking

In our increasingly divided political landscape, maintaining respectful conversations with those who hold different views can feel like navigating a minefield.

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Chivalry in the Modern Age

Hikers on a Mountaintop

Chivalry has evolved since its medieval origins. Chivalry in the modern age is a study in the intersection of traditional values with modern equality and civility.

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How Our Words Can Hurt People

Woman Talking to a Friend in a Restaurant

In our daily interactions, we often underestimate how our words can hurt other people. It's crucial to understand the impact our words have on others.

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Body Language: The Silent Communicator

Group Project Discussion

It’s not just what we say but how we say it. Our body language speaks at the same volume as our words and can make or break a positive impression.

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How to Use the American and Continental Dining Styles

Dining Close-out

The American and Continental dining styles are two different approaches to using utensils during meals. Read on for an overview of each style.

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Using Etiquette to Create a Positive Influence

Creative Women Working on a Project

The skill to create a positive influence is important. An effective way to make a lasting impact on those around us is through the practice of etiquette.

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Dealing with Out of Character Behavior From Someone You Know

Angry Woman in a Cafe

Out-of-character behavior carries some shock value with it. When an action or reaction comes out of left field from someone you know, it leaves you dumbfounded.

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A Guide to Effective Public Speaking

Businesswoman Speaking at a Conference

Whether you're speaking to a small team meeting or delivering a keynote address to thousands, effective public speaking is a crucial skill.

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Your Tone of Voice Can Make or Break Effective Communication

Businessman Blaming His Employee

In human interactions, words are just one part of the equation. How say those words—your tone of voice—influences how a message is received and interpreted.

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