Although sometimes used interchangeably, Etiquette & Manners are not the same thing. They both deal with certain standards of behaviour, but manners cover a more general area than etiquette.
Most manners are learned by children by watching their parents? and other adults? interactions. For example, they may see that elderly people are treated with extra respect, that it is impolite to criticize others’ appearances, and that it is rude to complain about dinner. Having good manners means that a person is conscious of others and puts their needs and feelings first.
In contrast, etiquette is a more specific set of rules that can be subject to cultural differences. For instance, proper etiquette governs which fork to use at a meal and who does the introductions when new people meet. Summarized, it is good manners to use proper etiquette, but not all expressions of good manners are considered etiquette.
Well-mannered people are comfortable in any setting whether or not they understand and follow every single rule of etiquette. A person who is considerate of others will have good manners and will be forgiven breaches of etiquette, such as being dressed a bit to casually for a formal event. Conversely, a person can follow all the rules of etiquette and still have bad manners because he or she is self-centered and inconsiderate.
Besides cultural acceptance, using etiquette & manners daily is essential to being seen as a polite, friendly person. People will not be able to appreciate your great personality if you do not look up from your cell phone to speak to them. Opening doors and allowing others to go first show that you are a respectful, unselfish person. Using manners and learning about specific rules of etiquette is one of the best ways to show appreciation of other people.
It has become a growing concern that etiquette & manners are being forgotten in the light of the modern age. Some parents of this age forget to teach their children to use good manners, expecting that manners will come with age. However, young people that have not grown up with good manners are likely to feel awkward and embarrassed when doing things out of their comfort zone, such as helping an elderly lady carry groceries to her car.
Some people don?t know what to do or say in uncomfortable situations, so they don?t do anything. Other people feel that they are too ?busy? to take a few moments to be polite to others. However, they can still get a reputation for rudeness and selfishness regardless of their motivations.
People learn best by example, so practicing good manners today is the best thing you can do to help our society become a more polite, respectful group of people. Additionally, if you have someone over whom you have influence, gently mentioning how to show consideration for others might be the helpful and ?mannerly? thing to do.
Etiquette & Manners training is a new and exciting opportunity for Schools and Universities students. It is an investment into our young men and women achieve important skills to win a job or win someone?s heart.
For more information about our Etiquette and Manners training please contact us [email protected]
