What Should I Know About Etiquette Training?

Etiquette training may be an online course, a book, or an actual class where individuals can go to brush up on their knowledge and practice of specific areas of good manners. Because etiquette changes drastically between settings, cultures, and based on personal relationships, etiquette training is a good way to clarify and establish good practices in anyone's behavior.

Business etiquette training is vital to every aspect of professional interactions. First impressions are important for job seekers at an interview as well as for sales and executive professionals meeting clients. Good etiquette programs address proper dress and body language as well as how to make introductions, shake hands and open conversations.

The level of proper protocol in business meetings can reveal the level of education in the participants. It sets up preconceived notions about the trustworthiness and capabilities of the parties involved. Business etiquette training can be brought in-house to train employees with general meeting tips for successful transactions.

Students getting ready to enter the workforce could prepare for interviews and the unfamiliar workplace by taking etiquette courses that address interviewing etiquette that can help the student to land a good position.

Eating in public, in both business and social situations, carries a basic level of etiquette that applies in all settings. Aside from that, the setting and type of menu being served actually has a huge impact on exactly what manners and protocol is expected from guests and hosts. Anyone who dines with other people should consider a brief etiquette training program to learn basic eating manners. Additional training for formal dining can be added if necessary.

Cultural differences can create an entirely different set of etiquette issues not ordinarily covered in an etiquette school in the country of origin. Special courses are available for those who may be going into social or business arenas with people from other countries who practice differing forms of protocol.

Telephone communication and skills are important to those who provide the company’s first impression over the phone. Etiquette training classes in how to modulate voice, greet the caller, and answer questions should be provided to those in the position of answering calls.

Business conducted over the telephone also requires a level of etiquette training to avoid unintended miscommunication and perceptions. Clients will develop impressions and make decisions often based on the telephone etiquette that is displayed by the individual.

Email and online etiquette, sometimes referred to as “netiquette,” is another form of communication that should be taught for business and social appropriateness. Customers can be put off by emails that are too short or too long. The length of response time can be construed as an affront in some cases. Training in netiquette can help explain guidelines that contain clear intentions, which aren’t always a problem when talking in person.