Etiquette is Eternal

We talk about manners in this space quite often. We've come to the conclusion that they are not obsolete. I found someone who agrees with me.

Peggy Post is the director of the Emily Post Institute. Yes, that Emily Post. In the May/June issue of AARP Magazine (www.aarpmagazine.org/peggypost), she wrote that manners in today's fast-paced, complex and crowded world are still relevant.

"The potnetial for awkward moments--and yes, even rude ones--is amplified," Post wrote, because of societal shifts. Technology, fashion trends and more open talk are driving and changing how we interact with one another.

However, the basic principles of Emily Post endure and apply and never change:

• Honesty
• Respect
• Consideration

No matter the situation, these three ideals are the basics of being polite, in showing manners. Respect for our fellow humans should be under all of our interactions. These should be easy for us to apply to networking situations. Or at least they should be.

Relentless

Prayer

While at lunch the other day, my lead lunch companion asked if we could pray before the meal.

Now, perhaps many of you have encountered this situation. Actually, it comes under the same heading of being a good guest, companion or host. Here are a few things to remember:

• Since she had initiated the meeting, she was essentially the host and it was her meeting (or meal).
• She asked if we could pray. She was respectful of our feelings, thoughts and beliefs.
• I consented because, well, she asked, and I had noticed in an earlier meeting she had taken a moment for silent prayer before the meal.

This is an individual basis situation, but it comes under the heading of good manners--from all parties. We live in a homogeneous world and country and need to be respectful of other cultures, languages and people. Squelch any of those and you run the risk of squashing ideas.

But, remember, it does work both ways.

Relentless