ETIQUETTE & PROTOCOL

Past and Present

…….In business arenas today, the term protocol is often used instead of etiquette because it sounds more businesslike and official. Many companies have established their own rules of protocol as part of their culture to ensure smooth daily operations. Etiquette knowledge has always been a valuable business tool. Dress for Success guru John Malloy found that almost everyone he talked to agreed that the final indicator of class was the possession of certain social skills. Ninety-nine out of every 100 executives said that social skills were prerequisites to succeeding in business and social life. They indicated that one has to have suitable table manners, know how to carry on a polite conversation, be able to introduce people without falling all over oneself, and be aware of simple rules of courtesy. Malloy also found that most business executives agree that handling oneself well at a cocktail party or the dinner table is at least as important as handling oneself skillfully in a boardroom.

Today, the personal and professional demands placed upon the business executive surpass any experienced in the past. The savvy executive must know how to explore new markets, develop opportunities worldwide, and master the techniques necessary to outclass the competition.

Etiquette and protocol intelligence will propel the executive to world-class status. After all, good manners go hand-in-hand with leadership.”

- Dorothea Johnson
Director of The Protocol School of Washington