National Etiquette Week - Day 4

PET ETIQUETTE

The Petiquette Expert

We talked with Jeff Bangle, a veterinarian in the Athens area, about the expectation of pets and their owners during visits.

1. Tell us a little about your background and personal experience in the veterinary field.

My undergraduate degree is from Presbyterian College, and I graduated from UGA College of Veterinary Medicine in 1996. I began my career in Watkinsville, Georgia where I am co-owner of Oconee Veterinary Hospital. My focus is strictly companion animal medicine with special interests in internal medicine, dermatology, surgery, senior pet care, physical therapy and rehabilitation of injured, arthritic or postoperative orthopedic patients.

2.  What are your top etiquette rules for pet owners when visiting the vet?

Be on time. We don't want to rush you to get to the next appointment.

Have your dog on a leash and under control, and/or have your cat in a secure carrier.

Come prepared with questions, undivided attention, and focus on your pet. I work on 30 minute appointments, and I like to make sure you leave with a full understanding of what we are trying to accomplish on your visit with us.

3. What is the one mistake you see people make when it comes to their pets, specifically involving etiquette?

Most of my clients and their pets do exceptionally well! The occasional out of control pet is to be expected. We love to see pets happy when they come and see us!

4. If you could give one piece of advice to new pet owners, what would it be?

Hard to give just one piece of advice! Really, in a nutshell, listen to your veterinarian, trust their advice and be prepared to ask questions. Allow for regular wellness and preventative exams as well as diagnostic testing. Consider pet insurance; yes, it can be very useful. Realize you are your pet's entire life. They have only you, they worship you, and are totally dependent on you to take care of them. Be responsible!

5. What advice can you give new pet owners to ensure good pet etiquette?

Start training your pets very young. There is a very short window of opportunity in a young pets' life that proper socialization skills can be ingrained. Teach them early how to walk on a leash, and how to learn basic commands so your life in the yard or at the dog park isn't miserable when another person or dog is nearby.

Public Behavior 101

1. Keep aggressive dogs close and offer your help and information in the incident your dog hurts another pet.
2. Feed your dog before taking him to a store or restaurant.
3. Train your dog to greet others in a polite way.
4. Always maintain control of your dog in public places.
5. Obey all leash laws.
6. Prepare your pet well before leaving them for long periods of times so they do not disturb your neighbors.
7. Teach your dog gentle behavior around children.
8. The sooner your pet learns basic commands the better behaved they should be around other people and in public.
9. Be prepared when travelling with your pet.
10. Always clean up after your pet.
11. Gently but firmly set up boundaries when it comes to how your pet interacts with other people's personal property.
12. Be mindful of others when bringing your pet to parties or gatherings. Some people aren't comfortable around pets.
13. Know how your pet interacts with new people and make accommodations that ensure the comfort of both parties.
14. Before visiting someone for an overnight, always ask permission to bring your pet.  

National Etiquette Week - Day 3

COFFEE SHOP ETIQUETTE

Interview with a Coffee King

Bob Googe tells us the Do's and Don'ts of coffee shop etiquette.

1. Tell us a little about your background and personal experience in the coffee business.

I have been in the coffee business for 14 years. I started with one shop that I purchased and now own 5 stores. We have also licensed out 12 other locations. In addition we own a coffee roasting business that has customers in all 50 states. 

2. What are your top rules for customers to practice excellent coffee shop etiquette?

Top rules generally involve  electronics. Such as: please either hang up the phone or put your call on hold so you can place an order. If you are on the phone you are not ready to order and the people behind you get mad at the staff because of the wait. Also, phone calls should be taken outside. A coffee shop is a place for face to face conversation, reading and studying. For some reason almost all of us talk louder on the phone than we do in person and it is very distracting. Finally - at least when it comes to electronics - if you are playing music or a movie, or a clip, please have on headphones. No one around you wants to hear what you are hearing.

3. What is the one mistake you see people constantly make during their coffee shop visit?

See the above list and you have a great idea.

4. If you could give one piece of advice to all coffee shop goers, what would it be?

Coffee shops are designed to imitate places where people come to be together. Risk a little personal space and if the shop is crowded allow or invite someone to sit at the table with you. You never know who you might meet.

5. Is there anything we haven't covered but you would like to tell customers before their next coffee shop visit?

Please be nice to the barista and pleasant and considerate of your fellow cafe patrons.

 A Latte Tips for All Coffee Shop Lovers

1. Be patient.
2. Occupy only one seat and do not use extra seats for your belongings.
3. Use headphones.
4. Always clean up after yourself.
5. Purchase something, especially if you are there all day.
6. Do not take phone calls inside.
7. Pay attention to your barista and listen for your name. 
8. Move toward outlets so as not to leave cords in the middle of the walkway for other people to trip over.
9. Do not ask people to watch your stuff for long periods of time.

National Etiquette Week - Day 2

GYM ETIQUETTE

"There are Manners in Everything."

Check out one of our past clients' success. Lisa Orr manages her own etiquette education business, Orr Etiquette, and has been featured on many television talk shows. Below is a segment she filmed on the Canadian talk show, The Social, where she talks about proper gym etiquette that all gym-goers should know.

The Social on Gym Etiquette

10 Rules for Everyone

1. Be mindful of how long you spend using a single piece of equipment. In other words, do not unnecessarily hog equipment.
2. Wipe down and the clean equipment you use.
3. Skip the gym if you are sick.
4. Put equipment back in its proper place. This includes free weights, medicine balls, etc. You should always leave everything better than how you find it.
5. Be mindful of others' workouts and make sure you all have plenty of room to workout in harmony.
6. Try not to chatter or make unnecessary noise.
7. If you must take a phone call, go to a more private place to talk.
8. Use headphones during your workout.
9. Arrive early for group classes.
10. Smell good. Wear deodorant but leave your perfume or cologne at home.

What Professionals Want You To Know

Gym Etiquette for All Types of Establishments

In order to give you the best advice and awareness on practicing good gym etiquette we interviewed the people who see it all. First, we talked with Shae Wilson. 

1. Will you give us a little bit of your background and experience in gym management?

I have been working for the Athens YMCA since November of 1999. My area of expertise has always been in after school programming and camps. I became the CEO two and a half years ago and have had to learn the mechanics of gym management.

2. What are your top rules for gym-goers on practicing excellent gym etiquette?

Clothing--everything must be covered. No shirts off for men, no sports bras for women. Language--no cursing or yelling or throwing weights. Time--everyone must abide by the machine time limits. This alleviates many conflicts.

3. What is the one mistake you see people make when it comes to gym etiquette?

Not understanding their body and misusing equipment. Many people use equipment they are not ready for, lift more than they can handle, or stay on equipment much longer than needed.

4. If you could give one piece of advice to new gym-goers, what would it be?

Use the free consultation we offer with our wellness director. Our wellness director is able to help members establish a workout plan and teach members how to properly use equipment.

5. Is there anything we haven't covered that you would like people to know about gym etiquette?

Be courteous. Everyone in the gym is there to reach personal goals.

Gym Etiquette for Group Classes

We talked with Connie Popwell, owner of three Pure Barre establishments, two in Tallahassee and one in Athens, about etiquette in group workout classes. Pure Barre is an exercise program that utilizes small, precise movements and a ballet barre to target all muscle groups. It is taught in a group setting and is taking the world by storm. We asked Connie for her top rules for gym-goers on practicing excellent gym etiquette:

1. Do not talk during class while the teacher is teaching. It is distracting to teachers and fellow classmates.
2. Unless you are an on call doctor, do not bring your cell phone into class and make sure it is silenced even when left in a separate room.
3. Practice good hygiene.
4. Always arrive on time and do not consistently leave early.
5. Most clients already do so; but view group workout classes and gym memberships as privileges and respect the rules of such establishments.

Connie also has some advice for new gym-goers:

Be open to trying something new. Always give yourself at least a month to try something out before you make up your mind about it. 

Spa Etiquette

Many gyms offer spa services to members and spa etiquette is just as important to everyone's well-being as gym etiquette. We kicked back and relaxed with Debbie Howell about her tips on spa etiquette and how we all should behave:

1. How soon should you arrive before a spa appointment?

15 minutes early to get changed into a robe and have an opportunity to settle in and prepare for the experience.

2. Rules for noise?

Always speak in a "spa voice" and be mindful that others are enjoying spa services.

3. What is the etiquette for cancelling a spa appointment?

If you need to cancel your spa service - most require a 24 hour notice depending on the number of services being received a longer cancellation may be necessary.

4. What is the one thing that you wish all spa guests knew?

When going into spa, be mindful of wearing high heels (noise factor). Turn off cell phones and enjoy the complete idea behind having a spa service.

National Etiquette Week - Day 1

"There are manners in everything."

GOLF ETIQUETTE

People from all over the world pay thousands of dollars to give up their cell phones for a day. There are rules, there is respect, there is conversation, there are standards. Millions of people live their lives waiting and yearning for this opportunity to pass their way. I have had the honor and privilege to be a part of this group. Attending this day over the past 40 years of my life usually was preceded by priority of guest selection, appropriate attire and calendar adjustments. But this particular day trip came with a different set of expectations. I sought to seek those outdated and thought to be unwanted ways of life to be alive and well and sought after.

As I stepped out of the car of my Uber driver into the cool crisp air that early April morning the smell of springtime filled the air, laughter from those waiting patiently to cross the busy city street rifled above the joy of the soon to be guest. Everyone spoke and interacted with the strangers around them. The crosswalk security directed the masses of happy people with civil tones and appropriate gestures. People spoke to strangers as if they were family members. As we entered the gates of the prized event those attending waiting in line eagerly. Those in attendance were excited to do whatever was asked of them to be able to complete the passage.

Thousands of guests entered at the same time. There was no pushing or shoving. There were no derogatory expletives. People took time out of their day to share handouts of the upcoming day's event. They were welcomed with thank you's, hand shakes and please excuse me. Smiles and uplifting conversation were being exchanged between those waiting in extensive lines for that coveted memorabilia. Stories of past trips were intently listened to so sincerely that it encouraged others to share. We gathered our purchases and found our way to the montage of lines to maneuver where we were greeted with numerous smiles and happy hearts. The outdoor lunch seating was packed and we were offered by this group of unknowns a prime seat where we introduced ourselves. Once again, handshakes were offered and conversation and personal connections were made. The attendants at the "necessary", aka restroom, were greeted by these unknowns as if they were the ones we had given up our cell phones for.

Over and over again, minute by minute the compilation of the day was filled with this same uniqueness. Respect...for others, for property, for rules and for standards. This event epitomizes the rules of civility, protocol and etiquette. It is the MASTER'S golf tournament in Augusta, Georgia. This week, May 9 - 13, begins National Etiquette Week. Every day this week The Etiquette and Leadership Institute will follow people and places where etiquette is defined. It encompasses everyday activities. There is ETIQUETTE in EVERYTHING. After hours of research and interviews we have found that MANNERLY, RULE FOLLOWING PEOPLE do exist.

-An Essay by April McLean

Jordan Spieth's Thank You Notes

"A wise coach reminded me recently, winning shows your character and losing shows ALL your character." - Jordan Spieth's Caddie

Jordan Spieth has been known to be a gentleman on the course as well as off. Below, you can read a thank you note that young Jordan Spieth wrote when he was just 15 years old. A handwritten note goes a long way to showing someone just how much you appreciate them. 

Thank You Notes

Tips for Beginners and Pros

1. Cell phones, cameras, and electronic devices are prohibited.
2. Be quiet especially when silence is required. 
3. Be still when a shot is being executed. 
4. Use crosswalks and never duck under roped off areas.
5. Autographs are only permitted during a certain time. Plan ahead and do not accost the golfers.
6. Don't be the slowest player. 
7. Always be a good sport. 
8. Always make your tee times.
9. Golf carts should be invisible.
10. Always look your best.

Celebrating Moms

Chivalry is not dead. 

Don't forget to do something for all the ladies in your life! Here are a few ideas:

• Stand when your mom and or a lady walks in the room
• Stand when a lady leaves the dining table
• Hold the door for all ladies
• Open the car door for all ladies
• Write a handwritten note to a lady in your life
• Give up your seat to a lady if there is only standing room
• Invite a lady to dance (especially a Mom)

Check out this link for more gentlemen inspirations from "Good Guy Swag" in their article, "21 Lost Gentleman Traditions That Still Apply Today"

Not all girls grow up to be ladies. Not all boys grow up to be gentlemen. The world needs more ladies and gentlemen. 

June 20 - 24, 2016 the Etiquette and Leadership Institute would like to certify you to have the skills and tools to provide the world with more outstanding, polite, and confident young people. We kindly invite you to attend the Etiquette and Leadership Institute Train to Be a Children's Etiquette, Manners, Leadership, and Character/Coach Consultant. For more information please call April McLean, Communications Director 888.769.5150. Visit etiquetteleadership.com

Gooooo Team!

Cheering on your local college ON and OFF the field. 

Athletes represent their Alma Mater on and off the field. They need to be OUTSTANDING.

Five Personal Development Tools:

1. Dining at the table while interacting with donors
2. Introducing themselves to fans
3. Dressing appropriately when attending alumni functions
4. Confident in conversation skills
5. Branding through social media

Train to be a MANNERS, ETIQUETTE, LEADERSHIP, and CHARACTER COACH/CONSULTANT. ELI will instruct you with the skills and tools to develop a business relationship with your surrounding athletic college teams. Our training dates are:

June 20 - 24, 2016

Become part of the Etiquette and Leadership Institute TEAM. WE will be YOUR biggest FAN! CHEERING YOU on to SUCCESS!

Visit our website etiquetteleadership.com for more information!

April Showers Bring...

Opportunities for ELI Etiquette Consultants to TEACH...

• Prom Etiquette
• Wedding Etiquette
• Dining Etiquette
• Dressing Etiquette
• Job and Scholarship Interview Etiquette
• Savvy Guest Etiquette
• Conversation Etiquette
• Travel Etiquette
• Receiving Line Etiquette
• Movie Etiquette

Not every client has the same needs. The Etiquette and Leadership Institute is ready to help you identify the right criteria and solutions for your customer. YOUR UMBRELLA will encompass all the resources and tools to teach any, all and much much more. The Etiquette and Leadership Institute's 5 days hands on certification course will prepare you to be the EXPERT in your community. 

Please join the The Etiquette and Leadership  Institute in Athens, GA to receive your Certification.

June 20 - 24, 2016

An umbrella with your name on it is waiting.