Etiquette School of Ohio

No Cell Phones in the Restroom

Restrooms are not appropriate places for cell phone conversations.  The last time I checked, the bathroom stall did not replace the phone booth.  Is there no modesty anywhere, any more?

I don’t want to hear your phone conversation while doing my business.  I really don’t care about your social plans, your sex life, or your issues with your boss.

Don’t expect me to hold the flush or wait to blow dry my hands until you hang up.  If the person on the other end discovers where you are, that’s your problem.

And finally, think about the germs that may be on your phone from the bathroom mist the next time you use it.

Business Presentations - Arrive Early

When giving a business presentation, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow yourself enough time to do a technical check and an overview of the presentation room.

Technical Checklist:

1. Do you have power?

2. Are there any electrical cords in your way?

3. Is your equipment functioning properly?

4. Is the room lighting properly adjusted or adjustable?

5. Microphone sound check

6. Is your visual program running properly?

7. Do you have a sufficient number of handouts?

8.  Do you have extra batteries for backup?

Room Considerations:

1. Temperature - not too hot or too cold?

2. Sufficient number of chairs?

3. Is the furniture arranged so everyone can see you and your visuals?

4. Eliminate potential of outside noise if possible.

5.  Close blinds or draperies if needed to optimize visual presentation.

Follow Up After a Networking Event

After meeting someone for the first time at a networking event, it is important to keep in touch with that person.  Be creative in they way you contact them to be remembered and stand out in the crowd.   Handwritten notes or postcards are always appreciated, but e-mails and phone calls work as well.

Continue your connection with this person by sending articles or information related to their interests.

Know Your Way Around A Boat or Cruise Ship

It is proper etiquette to know and understand the correct terminology when on a boat or cruise ship.

The left side of the boat is port, the right side is starboard.

Forward is said instead of front and aft is said instead of back.

Say you’re going below or topside rather than down or up.

Walk Gracefully Down the Aisle - Wedding Etiquette

When taking your walk down the aisle, you want it to look as graceful as possible.

Walk slowly, smile, and don’t look at the floor - even if you’re crying.

Select processional music with a strong, audible cadence.

The hesitation step we think of when we envision a bride coming down the aisle is outdated and looks very unnatural.  Keep your walk slow and rhythmic with the music.

Getting On the Bus - Back to School Etiquette

When getting on the bus, always wait to let other passengers get off the bus first.

Exchanging Personal Phone Numbers

Never give your personal phone number to someone if you are not comfortable doing so.  It is always important to be polite, but you must consider your safety first.

If you are asked for your phone number and do not want to share it, you might say, “Thank you for asking, but I’m very busy right now.”

Never give someone a fake number.  By doing so, you are giving them hope and may anger them when they discover it’s a false number.  You wouldn’t want someone to do that to you, would you?  Honesty is the best policy.

How To Get Rid of Puffy Eyes

If you wake up with puffy eyes from allergies, lack of sleep, or the common cold, try this quick trick to give yourself a brighter, more alert look.

Chill a clean spoon by placing it in a glass of ice water or briefly in the freezer.  Once the metal has chilled, remove it and hold the cold spoon against closed eyes until you feel relief from the puffiness.

If you’re in a real big hurry, try chilling two spoons - one for each eye.