Category Archives: Social Etiquette

Oops! It Just Slipped Out.

It is natural for our bodies to make undesirable sounds such as burping or passing gas.  However, it is not socially acceptable to belch or pass gas in public.  Those sounds should be reserved for private moments. Occasionally, no matter … Continue reading

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Handbags and Dining

A handbag should never be placed on the table. The table is considered a clean eating surface and the bottom of a handbag is not clean. While dining, a lady should place her handbag on her lap or on the … Continue reading

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Handwritten vs. Typed Notes

Thank you notes and condolence notes should always be handwritten.  Whether or not you write other types of correspondence by hand is a matter of personal preference.  For some, the quality of their penmanship dictates how they will write their … Continue reading

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Addressing Correspondence To Couples When One or Both Have the Title of Dr.

When sending correspondence to a couple, proper titles must be used in the address.  If one or both individuals have the title of Dr., one of the following examples should be used: 1. Dr. and Mrs. Robert Jones (The husband … Continue reading

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How To Write a Thank You Note for a Group Gift

It is not uncommon for businesses or departments within a business to send a group gift for special occasions.  If you receive a gift from a group of people, it is proper etiquette to send a thank you note. If … Continue reading

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How To Handle an Introduction When You Can’t Recall if You’ve Been Introduced in the Past

When we are introduced to someone for the first time, it is common and polite to say, “It’s very nice to meet you”. Have you ever said these words to someone and then felt like an idiot because you realized … Continue reading

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Applauding the National Anthem in Church

A reader recently asked the following questions: This last weekend the Church I attend had our annual 9/11 commemorative with Col. Oliver North as special guest. Part of the Sunday Service was the singing of the National Anthem. After we … Continue reading

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How to Properly Address Corrspondence to Unmarried Couples

When sending correspondence to two people who are living together and are not married, their names should appear on separate lines as in the following examples: Alicia Stuart Brian Smith or Ms. Alicia Stuart Mr. Brian Smith

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How To Shake Hands With A Disabled Person

When introducing yourself or being introduced to a disabled person whose right hand or arm is deformed or missing, extend your right hand as usual for a handshake.  Allow the disabled person to either respond with their left hand or … Continue reading

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How To Answer, “How are you?”

As I approached a cashier at the checkout counter today, she greeted me with a smile and asked, “How are you?”  I responded by saying, “I’m fine, thank you. How are you?”  I expected to hear the usual, “Fine, thanks.” … Continue reading

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