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Polite Society School of Étiquette offers a thoughtfully curated collection of courses designed to cultivate grace, confidence, and impeccable poise. The following courses are offered. Beginning Étiquette Course — An introduction to the essential principles of etiquette, gracious manners, and confident social interaction. Afternoon Tea Étiquette Course — An elegant exploration of afternoon tea traditions, tea-table etiquette, and the art of hosting and participating in this cherished ritual. Protocol, Decorum, & Savoir-Faire Course — A study of refined conduct, formal protocol, and the discernment required to navigate social and professional settings with confidence. The Story of Tea Course — A captivating journey through the history, culture, and traditions of tea, celebrating its enduring influence on societies around the world. Étiquette tutelage is also offered through speaking engagements, instructional webinars, school seminars, private dinners, and specialty tea events. The School's mission is to educate both adults and children in the traditional principles of etiquette and the essential social skills needed for everyday life. The curriculum encompasses the history of etiquette, social graces, dining etiquette, proper table settings, appropriate attire, protocol, decorum, and other valuable etiquette practices. Students also learn the art and essentials of preparing and serving a proper Afternoon Tea. Polite Society School of Étiquette provides students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the expectations of society with grace, poise, and confidence, empowering them to feel comfortable and self-assured in any social situation. All courses include foods and beverages as teaching aids. Interactive online training courses are available.

Sunday, July 28, 2013

Handshaking - The Ultimate Greeting


Shaking hands creates a favorable impression and influences others to do the same.  The handshake is important because it is the accepted greeting in almost all countries.  Always shake hands when: introduced to a person and when you say goodbye, when someone comes into your office to see you, when you meet someone outside your office or home, when you enter a room, when you leave a gathering, when you congratulate someone who has won an award or given a speech, and when you are consoling someone.  Hand shaking is not exclusively for males.  Women, too, are encouraged to offer their hand when an introduction is made.  A firm but not overpowering handshake is usually a good idea.  Be especially careful of how much pressure you exert if you are shaking hands with an elderly person or if you are wearing heavy rings which might bruise, but be sure your handshake is both firm and brief.  Count to three and let go.

From The Art of the Social Graces Book
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2 comments:

  1. KirstenAugust 5, 2013 at 1:03 PM

    When I was in high school, I was instructed how to shake hands as you describe. I have had many people tell me I have a 'good' handshake. I will also sometimes, while shaking hands, cover the handshake with my left hand to show extra care to someone. I find many people have either a limp or crushing handshake. Is this a sign of personality traits, or have most people never learned how to properly shake hands?

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    Replies
    1. Bernadette M. PetrottaAugust 5, 2013 at 10:46 PM

      Dear Kirsten,

      Thank you for your question and your interest in this subject. I believe it is very important to shake hands properly. And, yes, you are correct in thinking this is a personality trait. The way a person shakes hands is an indication of his or her personality. A welcoming and firm handshake indicate self assurance and a weak handshake translates into weakness.

      In a perfect world all children or students would be trained in social graces. When I am teaching etiquette, I cannot stress enough to my students how first impressions make such a difference in their relationships especially in the workplace.

      Thank you again,

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