Latest "Everyday Etiquette" Posts
September 4, 2020
Remember the days when dining out meant socializing, networking, or just enjoying a pleasant experience? These days, our restaurant meals have to be so much more than that — they have to be a safe experience for everyone involved, from patrons to waitstaff to the chefs in the kitchen.
Health and safety has to come first if we’re to beat the virus and keep our beloved restaurants open. A COVID-19 case can shut down an establishment and threaten lives and livelihoods. How can you accept this responsibility while still using your dollars to support your favorite restaurant? As with so much in life, it comes down to etiquette: Show respect for others by following the rules.
Tip #1 – Stay home if you are not feeling well
You might be asking, “Shouldn’t this go without saying?” But after months of staying at home, it’s so easy to write off a little nagging cough or a tickle in your throat for the promise of social interaction and a delicious meal. If you have even the slightest suspicion that your health isn’t 100 percent, stay home.
Tip #2 – Bring your phone
For years, I’ve been advising clients to avoid their phones while dining to remain fully present. But the pandemic has upended even my most hard-and-fast rules! Your phone is now a multi-use tool: You can use it for contact-less payment or to order (we’ll get to that in a second). Just be sure to clean it properly when you get home.
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Dining Etiquette, Etiquette Edge, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Covid-19, Masks, dining, restaurants, QR code reader, sanitizer, pandemic, Corona virus
January 31, 2020
Office romances happen. Quite often, they lead to long-term relationships and sometimes marriage. But starting a romance with a co-worker can have unforeseen consequences. In the worst-case scenario, your office romance can lead to uncomfortable situations and unplanned or forced resignations. Before you make the leap into an office romance, consider these tips:
Check the Rulebook
Find out what your employer’s policies are on the topic of office relationships before you start the romance. Some companies are more traditional and have zero tolerance when it comes to office romances, whereas other companies are more accepting. If you’ve already been dating, disclose your office romance to your HR person as soon as possible. Some firms require you to follow certain guidelines or inform other staff members.
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Valentines Day, Business, Business Etiquette, Everyday Etiquette, Wedding Etiquette and tagged love, Office love, office romance, workplace romance, romance, office etiquette, relationships, couples
December 17, 2019
We all know that a thank-you card traditionally is expected after we receive a gift. This simple act might be less common than it used to be, but that doesn’t mean it’s less appreciated.
I believe thank-you notes are just as important as the gifts themselves. After all, don’t we give to delight our friends and loved ones or express our gratitude? A well-written thank-you note brings gift-giving full circle.
Four steps to crafting a simple, beautiful note
- In the first sentence, say “thank you for” and state the gift you’ve been given. Example: Thank you for the wine glasses you gave me at the holiday party.
- Next, express a further detailed appreciation by remarking on qualities about the gift. Example: The glasses have already found a home on our dining room table. They look so elegant next to our everyday dishes!
- Share specific reasons why you like the gift. Example: I love to entertain, and can’t wait to show them off the next time we have friends over for a wine and cheese get-together.
- In the closing sentence, sign it pleasantly and friendly. And you can even add “Thanks again!” before your signature.
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Personal development, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Christmas, holiday, gratitude, thank you cards, thanks
October 22, 2019
I have a question for the women reading this: When was the last time you did something special for yourself?
Not a vacation with your family that you had to plan and manage — an actual getaway, just for you.
If you can’t remember, you’re not alone. Women disproportionately bear the unrelenting stress of trying to get ahead in business while managing the home. This mindset doesn’t just affect mothers and women in relationships, though — many of us, regardless of our home lives, also assume those tasks at work.
How do you know when you need a break? If the following rings true to you, it’s time.
Your creativity has dried up
Creativity is a battery that needs to be recharged. When was the last time you visited a museum or enjoyed connecting with the outdoors? When did you last create something just for the sake of creating?
You feel like you can’t connect
Women tend to put their own social needs on the back burner. Instead of recharging with friends over a glass of wine or meeting up with a running club before work, we tend to focus on making sure the people around us are OK. And yet studies show that people who cultivate their relationships live longer, happier lives.
You’re tired all the time
Women are more likely to suffer from insomnia than men — an astounding 57 percent of us report we experience insomnia at least a few nights a week. Without proper rest, we simply can’t handle the rest of our lives. It’s as simple as that.
You find yourself fantasizing about winning the lottery. A lot.
When your thoughts veer from daydreaming to escapist thinking, it’s a warning sign. Allowing yourself to indulge in too much escapism can create a cycle of low productivity and burnout.
If you see yourself in that list, consider recharging your battery with my Bike, Barge, and Bond 2020 River Cruise through the Netherlands and Belgium from Aug. 14-22, 2020. It’s a chance to forgo the usual madcap tourist dash for the slower pace of a bike and river barge. You’ll experience the Netherlands and Belgium propelled by your own power, with plenty of time to savor each new sight and sensation. During the evening, you’ll enjoy cultural walks, engage in thoughtful conversations, and learn how to maximize your potential.
By the end of the river cruise, you will have traveled from Brussels to Amsterdam and rediscovered your sense of adventure. This is a chance to do something for yourself, to recharge your creative juices, and to meet other fascinating women.
Space is limited to only 18 women, so sign up now — these spots will go fast! I hope you take this opportunity to carve out time for yourself.
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Travel, Communication, Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette, Just for Fun and tagged Amsterdam canal, travel, personal growth, cycling, women, bike & barge, Amsterdam, Belgium, river cruise
May 20, 2019
Hopping on your bike for a cycle around your community or on the local bike trails seems like a no brainer on a nice spring day. In recognition of cycling week (usually in May worldwide and May 27 to June 2 in Canada), here are some bike tips to keep in mind that will make your cycling safe and enjoyable:
- Safety is your number one priority
- Ensure your bike is in good working condition before you head out for a cycle (tires are fully inflated, chain is greased, brakes and gears are functioning properly)
- Always wear a helmet, even though it might look dorky. See #1!
- Wear reflective gear if you’re venturing out at dusk
- Make yourself highly visible at all times. Avoid getting in a driver’s blind spot, especially at street corners and stoplights
- Add a light to the front and back of your bike. Visibility, again, is a big one, and a light is a must to be safe on the roads after daylight
- Hook up a bell to your bike. Being heard is just as important as been seen!
- Wear proper clothing. Choose clothing and shoes that are comfortable and suit your bicycle. You don’t want anything to get caught in the wheels (or reveal too much skin!) Padded riding shorts are best for long distances or when you will be cycling over several days.
- Protective eyewear is a great idea. Avid cyclists find ski goggles work the best. They protect much of your face and they’re fog proof!
- Red means stop. Obey the rules of the road-both at traffic lights and stop signs. (Did I mention…Safety first?)
- Know and use arm signals:
- Left arm straight out to signal a left turn
- Right arm straight out for a right turn (or left arm upright at a 90-degree angle)
- Palm or fist behind your lower back to signal slowing or stopping (when in a group)
- Stay to the right when in front of a group of cyclists to allow room for others to pass safely on your left
- Communicate when riding with a group. If you see a hazard up ahead, let your fellow cyclists know about it
- Maintain a steady, straight line and avoid braking or changing direction suddenly
- Never try to push your rights with vehicles (if in doubt…yield)
- Plan your route stick to approved cycle trails when you can
- Drink lots of water
- Bring your fully-charged cell phone for emergencies (and photos!)
- If you are cycling alone, make sure you tell someone where you are headed and when to expect you back
- Have Fun!
- More Bike month info
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette, Just for Fun and tagged etiquette tips, manners, cycling
April 10, 2019
A Guide to Tricky Emoji
A colleague recently texted me with a wonderful idea. As someone who messages quite a bit, both personally and professionally, I’m pretty up-to-date on proper etiquette. But when I tried to choose an emoji heart to indicate that I loved my colleague’s idea I was stymied. There were so many choices! A yellow heart? A beating red heart? A large pink heart flanked by smaller hearts?
I’m not alone in my confusion. The misuse of emoji is fodder for Buzzfeed articles about the generation gap between parents and their children — they even show up as plot points in comedies. Here are some of the most commonly used emoji and what they really mean.
Hearts. We all know hearts represent love, but their colors add another layer of meaning. Bustle published a great guide to heart colors that I like to reference. If you’re familiar with the subtle language of giving flowers, you’ll notice a few similarities: Yellow for warmth, purple for drama and glamour, a cluster for over-the-top expression. Save a single red heart, like a single red rose, for a love interest.
Wink. A wink in real life might indicate a joke or a flirtation. In emoji, it is most definitely the latter. Not appropriate in professional texts or with someone other than a partner, spouse, or potential love interest.
Crying laughing. This emoji indicates that you’re laughing so hard that you’re crying — definitely different than the laughing emoji, for which it’s sometimes confused. Make sure you don’t choose the version with a drop of water coming from its forehead: that indicates a nervous, cold sweat.
Smiling face with hands. This face seems very happy, but the hands are an indication that something else is going on. This emoji is a virtual hug — not appropriate for your boss, for example.
Expressionless face. Don’t use this emoji unless you want to convey your displeasure or lack of enthusiasm for an idea, person, or project.
Smiling face with heart eyes. Be careful when using this emoji — it can be applied to an idea you love, but also indicate love or flirtation to the person on the other end of your text message.
There are hundreds of emoji. I’ve concentrated on the way these emoji are used in North America and Europe, but you may run into different interpretations in Asia, for example. When in doubt, type it out rather than use a symbol.
Do you have any emoji horror stories? Please share them in the comments below!
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Valentines Day, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication, Everyday Etiquette, Just for Fun and tagged communication, Emoji, hearts
January 11, 2019
Trying to lose those extra holiday pounds from all the seasonal holiday parties and events? You are not alone! Health clubs and gyms are busier than ever. If you are new to the gym, or it’s been a while, here are some gym etiquette tips to consider that will make your workout more meaningful and productive.
So what’s the biggest etiquette pet peeve of a typical gym-goer? Leaving the equipment sweaty.
No one wants to grip the handlebars of an elliptical machine only to find it damp and slippery! My best advice is to bring your own personal towel with you and wipe down the machines when you’re finished. Put your towel on a bench where possible. If you don’t have a towel, know where the paper towels are located and take some with you before you begin your routine. Many gyms have spray bottles filled with cleaning solution and encourage members to take the time to clean up after themselves.
I was at a class recently and the instructor was wearing a sweaty handkerchief on his head. My first thought was, “Gross.” But then I realized that he was actually using good manners by wearing the headband. It was a vigorous class and by wearing the handkerchief on his head, all the sweat was absorbed in the fabric, instead of tossed around at the class!
Other gym protocols include:
- Wear appropriate workout Attire. Gym clothing that is explicit and exposes the front or the back is unacceptable. Secondly, make sure your attire is freshly laundered ~ nobody wants to small last week’s workout on you.
- Put your cell phone away. Respect those around you by leaving your cell phone in the car or your handbag when working out. Some health clubs and gyms have regulations against bringing your phones inside—especially since we have camera phones now! Leave the selfie for your next party instead.
- Take turns on the equipment. Set yourself a timer if the gym is extra busy. Be aware of others who are waiting to use the equipment. Don’t linger close to another gym patron hoping they will get the hint and move to another station.
- Unless you are staff or a personal trainer, don’t offer advice. Nobody wants to be told they are using equipment incorrectly. If another patron asks you something specific, that’s one thing, but don’t offer unsolicited suggestions.
- Avoid staring. Gyms are usually full of people with nice physiques who have taken good care of themselves. Try not to stare ~ focus on yourself and your routine.
- Return weights/equipment back where they belong. When you’re through with your weight lifting routine, put the dumbbells (or other equipment) back in their proper place. Not only is it good etiquette but helps staff to keep things more organized.
- Skip the perfume. Many people are sensitive to particular fragrances. In close quarters, like the gym, keep it clean and fresh. A little deodorant goes a long way!
- Share the water fountain.You need to stay hydrated when working out, but if your water bottle needs refilling, let people who are waiting for a quick sip go ahead of you.
- Keep the volume down. Exercising to the sounds of your latest music downloads is fun—and it makes the time go by so much faster—but not everyone wants to hear your latest playlist. Ensure you are using earbuds during your workout.
- Be on time. If a class has already started, you’re too late. If you have to leave early, notify your instructor in advance and slip out quietly.
Going to the gym should be an invigorating experience—not an aggravating one. Be courteous of other members at all times to make the gym experience pleasant for you and for fellow gym-goers.
Happy training!
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Etiquette Tips, Everyday Etiquette and tagged Gym, Workout
December 5, 2018
It’s that time of year again. Holiday office party season is in full swing and even though the word “party” is in the phrase, it’s important to remember that holiday office parties are still business functions.
To ensure that you’re not afraid to face your co-workers the next day, here are a few office party etiquette tips to keep in mind:
Do accept the invitation
The first piece of advice when it comes to holiday office parties is this: Go! Your absence will be noticed!
Know what to wear
It can be tough to strike the right balance between festive and appropriate when it comes to what to wear to the office party, however, the time, location and details on the invitation will give you a sense of what to wear.
For example: If your boss is hosting an “Ugly Sweater Party,” then the answer to that question is pretty simple. But, if your company is hosting an evening party at a local hotel or restaurant, formal attire is more appropriate. And ladies, this is not the time to show off your cleavage. Keep it simple and classy. Whatever you choose to wear will reflect on you professionally. When in doubt, ask your host or hostess about the event’s dress code.
Eating
So that you’re not spending all your time at the snack table, my advice is to have a light snack before the party. This is also helpful if you plan on drinking at the party. When at the party, use common sense when it comes to filling (or over-filling your plate) — the hors d’oevre plate will give you an indication of how much to eat. You’re there for business, not for the food.
Drinking
If you drink alcohol at the party, know your limits. Or set yourself a cap of just one drink for the evening and then switch to a non-alcoholic drink. I always tell people this, “Drink half as much, and you’ll have twice as much fun.” Remember, you’re at a work function and even a small amount of alcohol can loosen your inhibitions and lead you to do things you may regret the next day. Make sure you have planned how you are getting home after the event if you have a drink or two; like pre-arranging for a cab or your local ride-sharing company. If your employer is large enough, they may even allow you to expense your fare.
Conversations
This is a good time to get to know people you don’t work with on a daily basis, so mingle. Avoid excessive “work” talk and keep conversations friendly and upbeat. Have a few topics up your sleeve – and avoid politics and religion, as a rule. Remember to not indulge in office ‘gossip’.
Pause before you post
Remember those days when “what happened in Vegas, stayed in Vegas”? We all know that THAT isn’t true any longer! Cell phones allow us to post anything, anytime, anywhere. Before you post any photos from the holiday party, pause and ask yourself “Would this photo pass the CEO test?” If your employer has a social media policy, make sure you are aware of it. This is sometimes the case if you work for the public sector like the Federal Government. If the photo isn’t one that the CEO of your company would find appropriate, it’s probably not a good idea to share it with the world. Pause before you post to Facebook!
Show your thanks
Within 24 hours of the party, send out a handwritten thank you note to your employer – and also to anyone who helped organize the celebration.
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette and tagged holiday office party etiquette tips
December 1, 2018
During the holidays, the rules for gift giving in the workplace are tricky. Many people are simply unsure of the protocol when it comes to inter-cubicle gift giving.
How much should I spend on a coworker?
Should I buy for my boss?
What should I buy my staff?
All of these questions are common this time of year.
Gift giving during the holiday season provides you with an opportunity to say “thank you” to those people who have supported you during the year—and that includes coworkers and mentors.
There are no mandatory holiday gift giving rules when it comes to how much to spend, however, some workplaces have guidelines in place that you must adhere to when giving gifts at the office. A good rule of thumb is to spend no more than the tax credit allowed in your country for professional gifts. In the U.S., the IRS allows a $25 tax deduction for each professional gift.
When buying for your boss, keep in mind that he likely has enough gadgets and trinkets. Be modest and consider doing something unique this year, such as making a donation to one of his or her favorite charities in the recipient’s name.
If you’re the boss, it’s a good idea to keep your radar up all year—listening in for your employees’ hobbies and interests. This will save you time choosing the perfect gift to give each one during the holidays. And it will make them feel appreciated!
Some gift-giving inspiration
Just can’t figure out what to buy? Here are a few ideas for you:
- Wine. When you give someone a bottle of wine, they can enjoy it now or save it for a long time.
- Chocolate. Dark chocolate is not only decadent, but it’s good for you! The perfect gift for everyone on your list!
- Treat someone to a service. Giving someone “permission” to treat themselves is the perfect gift.
- Food. During the holiday season, there are many stores that offer pre-made savory or sweet food hampers–or you can get creative and create a basket of goodies!
- Gift card. A gift card from Amazon is always a favorite gift because it gives the recipient an opportunity to buy whatever she wants anytime of year – guilt-free!
If you’re thinking about giving gifts to your customers this year, make sure you think about this first:
- Don’t give expensive gifts, but those intended to make the customer feel as though you appreciate them (not obligated to buy from you.)
- Don’t send gifts to prospective customers. By giving a gift too early in your business relationship, the intention may be misconstrued. Gifts are appropriate only if you have an ongoing business relationship.
- Don’t send promotional gifts. When sending a gift to a customer, refrain from sending something that’s tagged with your logo or brand. Save those items for trade shows and business events.
- DO send something of meaning. Tying a gift to a customer’s hobby or outside interest shows that you value the relationship.
The most important aspect of gift giving is that it comes from your heart so if you’re wondering where to draw the line, go with your instincts. If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of giving a particular person a gift, then don’t do it.
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret in Everyday Etiquette and tagged holiday gift giving etiquette tips
November 21, 2018
grat-i-tude [grat-i-tood]
noun
The quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
The last bowls of turkey soup (the best thing about leftover Thanksgiving turkey) have been served here in Canada, but the biggest holiday of the year is almost here for our friends in the US. With Thanksgiving, both in Canada and in the United States, there comes a heightened sense of gratitude. A keen sense of nostalgia and recognition for all that is good in our life.
At our house, during dessert at Thanksgiving, we go around the table –each of us sharing what we are thankful for. Guests always mention how good it feels to share what they are grateful for, and to hear what others give thanks for.
It’s such a simple thing, really, to stop and think about the things, and the people who bring us joy. But when was the last time you took a moment out of your (regular) day and acknowledged what you are truly thankful for?
Why Gratitude?
There is a plethora of information touting the benefits of cultivating gratitude on a daily basis. Just plug “benefits of gratitude” into Google and you’ll see a slew of results pop up on the health benefits – both mental and physical.
Let’s face it – life is busy. Time whizzes by and before you know it, we’re turning the calendar to a brand new year. No one is immune to the passing of time, but we can all learn to express it – and be more in the moment.
Here are two ways you can start flexing your gratitude muscles today:
Say thank you. I make it a habit of sending out one card per day to people who have enriched my life. Acknowledge those people who have an impact on your daily life. Send a card. Give them a call. Write a personal note or email expressing gratitude for their support or encouragement. Say “thanks” in person. It doesn’t matter what the delivery platform is, it’s the sentiment that counts.
Start a gratitude journal. At the end of each day, write down at least three things you are grateful for. If you want to skip the pen and paper, there are a ton of gratitude apps out there now to make it really easy for you to keep track of those moments of gratitude. I use Gratitude 365 – and so does my young grandson!
By making it a habit of practicing gratitude all year long, you will find that your thoughts and words will become more positive. Lose all those negative things you tell yourself–the “don’ts and “nots” and “should-haves”—and shift your focus on giving thanks for all the little things that make you smile every day.
Happy Thanksgiving to my American friends!
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” – Oprah Winfrey
Photo credit: Stuart Miles
Continue Reading »
Print This Post
Posted by Margaret Page in Everyday Etiquette and tagged gratitude
