Etiquette and protocol may seem like outdated notions, but they are the common rules and understandings that ease everyday business meetings, make friendships easier and provide critical input to your daily interaction. While you may not think you need to adhere to etiquette or protocol with the blossoming of email, texting, social networks and technology dominating the day, you would be surprised at how much you rely on the unspoken rules of conduct to manage your day.
History
Etiquette and protocol are a natural part of human evolution. While you may not need to worry about the protocol required of those who visit royalty, you want to instill the rules of social behavior in your children or follow the basic rules of conduct in a business meeting. Most children can remember being taught certain rules of behavior appropriate to specific circumstances--sitting in church, visiting relatives or dining in a restaurant.
Misconceptions
Etiquette and protocol are often thought of as being Victorian, strait-laced or far too difficult to follow in modern life. In fact, though, as Judith Martin points out in her book "Miss Manners' Guide to Excruciatingly Correct Behavior," etiquette and protocol serve to make things easier; their primary focus is to make you and your guests comfortable. Without etiquette and protocol, formal occasions, such as weddings, would not have clear rules to be followed or modified, as appropriate to the couple involved. And you might find informal gatherings, such as get-togethers with friends, awkward when the bill arrives.
Effects
With etiquette and protocol, you know what to do in both group and one-on-one situations. In simple terms, you know to thank the barista who makes your coffee every day; you also know to bring wine or a contribution to dinner when invited over; you know to check with your partner before committing to an activity and you know to stand during the "Star Spangled Banner" before a sporting event. These simple courtesies ease interaction between you and your friends and when you are in a group.
Features
Etiquette and protocol can dwell on the minutiae, but a few simple actions make things easier for everyone. Judith Martin, aka "Miss Manners," notes them in her book. The first goal is to avoid being rude, even if a person has been rude to you. The second is to help others when you possibly can. The last is to focus on another person's comfort, even if it is at the expense of your own.
Geography
Etiquette and protocol nuances vary widely across nations. If traveling, research what is expected of a guest or business associate, to ensure a smooth meeting and avoid an inadvertent blunder. While globalization continues to make some features of etiquette and protocol standard, it is wise to know what may happen in a specific culture.
References
- "Miss Manners' Guide to Excruciatingly Correct Behavior;" Judith Martin; 1983.
- Bartleby
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