Modern Etiquette For Dummies

Improve your manners, navigate uncomfortable social situations, and show greater kindness to others

Our world is constantly changing, but something that always remains true? Manners matter. Etiquette is about more than just knowing which fork to use at a fancy dinner or how to write a thank-you note. Modern Etiquette For Dummies shows you how to navigate tricky interpersonal scenarios and tough workplace dilemmas with ease. With the help of Dummies, you'll toss aside stuffy old notions of etiquette and discover how to conduct yourself in various environments. This book is full of helpful tips on tackling today's unique challenges, including how to use the right pronouns, how to behave on social media, how to maintain professionalism in hybrid work settings (like when is it okay to turn off your camera during a Zoom meeting?), and how to put your phone down so you can focus on what matters.

• Learn important social expectations in informal, formal, and workplace settings
• Discover how to navigate pronouns when unsure of someone's gender identity
• Get up to date on the etiquette surrounding remote work, video calls, and more
• Improve your reputation and communicate better with friends and family

This Dummies reference is great for anyone who wants improved manners. Entering the business world? Traveling overseas? Hosting a dinner party? This is the book you need.

Sue Fox is founder and president of Etiquette Survival, a professional development company that offers educational materials for individuals interested in starting their own etiquette consulting businesses, as well as corporate trainers and teaching professionals who would like to incorporate etiquette training into their classrooms.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Taking the First Steps to Better Etiquette 5

Chapter 1: Examining Today’s Etiquette Basics 7

Chapter 2: Becoming a Model of Good Manners 21

Chapter 3: Presenting Yourself Positively: Clothing, Grooming, and More 33

Part 2: Fostering Well-Mannered Relationships 49

Chapter 4: Focusing on Courtesy with Your Family 51

Chapter 5: Appreciating the Art of Friendships and Relationships 69

Chapter 6: Showing Civility in the Working World 87

Part 3: Communicating with Courtesy: Saying Everything Right 97

Chapter 7: Engaging in Polite Conversation 99

Chapter 8: Sharpening Your Written Correspondence 111

Chapter 9: Improving Your Phone Etiquette 127

Chapter 10: Crafting Appropriate Emails and Social Media Posts 143

Chapter 11: Communicating in the Business World 157

Part 4: That’s Entertainment! Meals, Parties, and Gifts 181

Chapter 12: Eating Meals with Elegance 183

Chapter 13: Celebrating the Wonders of Wine 209

Chapter 14: Hosting a Memorable Event 221

Chapter 15: Being a Gracious Guest 247

Chapter 16: Giving and Receiving Gifts Graciously 259

Part 5: Making the Most of Special Situations 277

Chapter 17: Marking Life’s Major Events 279

Chapter 18: On the Go: Travel Manners for Land, Sea, and Air 303

Chapter 19: Being Sensitive about Disabilities and Illnesses 323

Part 6: The Part of Tens 337

Chapter 20: Ten Airline Etiquette Tips 339

Chapter 21: Ten Social Etiquette Tips for All of Us 345

Index 351

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The Used, Rental and eBook copies of this book are not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. Typically, only the book itself is included. This is true even if the title states it includes any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.