Proper Etiquette

Etiquette is a word used to define social conduct that is driven by social customs and cultures. The phrase "good manners" is often used interchangeably with "etiquette," according to an article in the St. Petersburg Times. From a simple handshake to the way you conduct yourself during a meal, your manners give people a powerful first impression. In an article in Psychology Today, Pepper Schwartz, Ph.D. explains that etiquette varies by culture.

History

Etiquette has been around since thousands of years B.C., according to the Ask Andy About Clothes website. It might have started by the behavior code set forth by one of Egypt's early kings, Djedkare Isesi. Other societies throughout history followed their own codes of manners, including ancient Greece and Rome. Even Confucius had etiquette rules based on his philosophy. During the 17th century, the French placed small signs around gardens and palaces letting guests know where to stand, where they could walk and what they shouldn't touch. These instructional signs were called "etiquettes."

Purpose

According to the St. Petersburg Times, society places emphasis on etiquette to show respect to others. When someone speaks to you, proper etiquette dictates that you listen and not interrupt. When you sit at a table, you use good manners to prevent disrupting someone else's meal.

Types

Etiquette rules are expected in all types of settings. Business etiquette dictates manners in all aspects of work, including looking for a job, proper attire in the workplace, business correspondence and how to behave in the office. Table etiquette rules are in place to provide a positive social experience while dining. Gift etiquette includes giving appropriate gifts as well as graciously receiving gifts and sending thank you notes. Phone etiquette covers answering the phone, interruptions, how to handle call waiting, length of a conversation and hanging up. Everyday etiquette includes general politeness, how to approach people and interacting with others.

Teaching Etiquette

The Rude Busters website recommends teaching children etiquette when they are about two years old. Start out by setting an example and showing proper manners that they can observe and emulate. As they develop and grow, you can show them how to behave at the table, respect teachers, how to be a good sport, how to share, how to treat others in public and what is acceptable behavior everywhere they go. Proper etiquette is one of the most valuable social skills that will influence how well they get along with everyone for the rest of their lives.

When Etiquette Starts

Every adult in a child's life is responsible for children's manners, according to Samantha von Sperling, image consultant in Manhattan, as stated in an article in Big Apple Parenting. This includes parents, teachers, adult friends and relatives. New York teachers Jackie Lichtenstein and Jon Goldman suggest that proper etiquette should be taught in the home by parents. Etiquette expert Jo Leonard states that basic manners training needs to start early.