First Impressions Matter

Just like manners matter we believe that first impressions matter. So, with back to school this week we’ve been thinking a lot about fall preparation and how to clean up, get ready, and meet new people. In this post, we’re highlighting some considerations while prepping for back-to-school or any situation where first impressions may be long-lasting.

Courtesy: You’ll meet new people. Don’t forget to smile, make eye contact, and do a proper greeting (“good morning”, “shake hands” - whatever is appropriate for your situation).

Dressing for Success: A solid balance of what comfort and class is a good strategy here. Yes, comfort is key. That said, it’s imperative that one gives more than a five second thought as to that first day outfit. Make sure it’s clean, fits well, and is odor and wrinkle-free.

Body Language Basics: Often times, first impressions are made from body language not even spoken words. Be sure to stand straight, look people in the eye and SMILE!

Punctuality and Respect: Be sure to be there on time or a minute or two (not more!) before the start time. Timeliness is a crucial aspect of showing respect.

The Power of “Please and Thank you”. This should be obvious, but in our modern world where much communication is through devices, communication is diminished and there’s not as much practice with common etiquette practices. Saying PLEASE when asking for something and THANK YOU after receipt is certain to win some major first impression points.

Mindful Listening: There’s a reason you’re meetings someone new - be in a peer, teacher, mentor or friend. Listen to the words, and recognize the body language, to ensure the engagement is a positive one.

Name Game: A common fail in 'first impressions’ is not recalling the name that was said. We have some super fun strategies to share when it comes to remembering names!

Tech-Free Zone: As a sign of respect, put the device in do-no-disturb or silence mode. This will also aid in the above actions (remembering names, mindful listening, etc.)

Yes, it’s easier said than done! Join our classes to spend some time focusing on and practicing these essential skills!

Cards, yes card manners...

My kids are incredibly well skilled at playing cards. It’s something we do. A lot. Especially with my husband’s family, who loves to have a nice dinner and then we sit around the table and deal the cards out. Which brings me to this post….

(sidenote, I don’t mean this as a brag. we didn’t realize they were skilled at cards until we played with some friends with kids who didn’t know how to hold the cards. Eye opener!)

This past weekend (Happy belated 4th of July 🍉 everyone), we were at our favorite place and - once again - the tables turned and the cards were dealt. And, since I’ve been a bit more rigid with my kids’ manners as of late, I realized that Modern Manners matter in card games as well. So, here are a few tips I tried getting across to my kids. I’d love for you to comment and share more too!

1. Dealer deals to the left. This is just. simple. card. etiquette.

2. Don’t look yes. Wait. Be patient. Let the dealer do his/ her job without distraction.

3. Yes, do point out when a card slips into another’s pile. But really, you shouldn’t touch the card unless it’s yours. (use your words, not your hands)

4. Only touch cards that are yours.

5. Don’t TOUCH until the deal is dealt.

6. Games can sometimes get rowdy. Ok, but don’t forget your MODERN MANNERS.

Hop OFF before you Hop ON

Hello and welcome to another episode of "How Not to Be 'That' Person!" Today's hot topic? The delicate dance of disembarking and embarking – a.k.a., getting off. We’ll go with examples of elevators and airplanes. But please feel free to apply these principles wherever you see fit…

Let's set the scene. You're standing in front of an elevator, waiting for it to descend from the heavens (or the 10th floor, whichever is more dramatic). The doors slide open, revealing a packed elevator. Do you a) charge in like a bull in a china shop or b) patiently wait for people to get off first? If you chose a), congratulations! You've successfully annoyed every person in the elevator before you even stepped foot in it. The correct answer, dear readers, is b).

Why, you might ask? Well, it's not just because it's polite (though that's a big part of it). It's also because it's practical! Think about it. If you let people off first, there's more space for you. It's a win-win situation: they get to their destination, and you get more room to do whatever it is you do in an elevator.

Now, let's take our newfound wisdom to the friendly skies. How many times have you been on a plane, waiting to take your seat, while someone upstream fights against the current, trying to swim upstream like a confused salmon trying to get to their seat? It's a sight to behold, but not one we need to see on every flight.

So, here's a pro tip. Let people off the plane before you try to get on. It's the same principle as the elevator. They get off, you get on, and everyone's happy. Plus, you avoid the awkward shuffling, sidestepping, and the accidental games of footsie with a stranger.

The moral of the story? Patience is not just a virtue, but a way to avoid unnecessary awkwardness and frustration. So, next time you're waiting to get on an elevator or airplane, remember: hop off before you hop on! Not only will you be practicing good etiquette, but you'll also be saving yourself from becoming the star of someone else's "You won't believe what happened on my commute today" story!

The Etiquette of Returning Borrowed Items

Have you ever lent something to a friend (or sister), only to have it returned in a less than ideal condition, or worse, not returned at all? The act of borrowing and returning items is a common practice among friends, family, and neighbors. However, the process isn't always as seamless as we'd like it to be. Let’s cover basic manners when borrowing:

Timeliness is Key

When you borrow something, it's crucial to return it as promptly as possible. If you've borrowed a book, for example, aim to read it and return it within a reasonable timeframe. Letting borrowed items gather dust at your home for months on end can lead to frustration and disappointment on the part of the lender.

Return in the same…. or better … condition

It's crucial to return an item in the same condition you received it. If you've borrowed a dress, was or even dry clean before returning it. If it's a power tool, clean it thoroughly. Taking care of borrowed items shows respect for the person who lent them to you and increases the likelihood that they'll feel comfortable lending to you again in the future.

Communicate

If for some reason you're unable to return an item on time, communicate this to the lender as soon as possible. Most people are understanding if you explain the situation and provide a new return date. Communication is key to maintaining good relationships when borrowing and returning items.

Replace or repair

Sometimes accidents happen. If you've damaged or lost an item you've borrowed, the best course of action is to replace it or have it repaired. If that's not possible, discuss with the lender the best way to make it right. Don't just return a damaged item without explanation.

Be gracious

Lastly, always express your gratitude when returning borrowed items. A simple "thank you" goes a long way in showing your appreciation.

In conclusion, borrowing items is a practice built on trust, respect, and courtesy. By returning items timely, keeping them in good condition, communicating openly, dealing with damages responsibly, and expressing gratitude, you can ensure that you maintain good relationships with those around you. Happy borrowing!