LESSONS IN ETIQUETTE
Most of the following quotes were created by my father and were designed to help young professionals set up good relationships with clients. Actually, most of them can be applied in a broader spectrum of social interaction. Written 44 years ago, do they stand the test of time? Make up your own mind.
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“If a carpenter only talks well about the woodwork job he is doing for the customer, he is seen as a skilled tradesman and treated as a tradesman. If he talks well about it but periodically in dialogue stands back from it, demonstrating a wider understanding of the environment in which the finished job will be, he is still seen as a skilled craftsman but is treated as a professional and a mentor."
“Don’t be afraid to be wrong. Sometimes a big mistake can be the best thing that ever happened to you!"
“Learn to remember names. Inefficiency at this point may indicate that your interest is not sufficiently ongoing."
“Be a comfortable person so there is no strain in being with you."
“Be honest even if you think it doesn’t get you what you want!"
“Express your personality. Be upbeat. Shine your light! Don’t shrink to make others more comfortable."
“Don’t be egotistical. Guard against the impression that you know it all."
“Listen, show you’re listening, hear what is said. Try to make the other person feel good about themselves, this is rewarding for both of you."
“Develop your sense of humour. Laughter is a great ice-breaker."
“Study to get "anti-social" elements out of your personality, even those of which you may be unconscious. Eliminate fidgeting or unconscious habits like touching your nose or your hair."
“Avoid being judgemental. Don’t get caught up in a tirade, agreeing just to be sympathetic. Do not indulge gossip or take sides."
“Avoid favourite quips such as always responding with "awesome" or “cool". Choose your words with care."
“Be positive. Keep your word. Be yourself."
“It’s never too late to be who you may have been" - T.S. Eliot
“Life isn't about finding yourself, life is about creating yourself." - George Bernard Shaw
