THE MODERN YOU
A first impression is made in the first seven seconds of meeting someone. That first impression includes the way you dress, your posture, the way you make introductions, and the way you communicate. Do people instantly like you, or are they still unsure? Do you make people feel at ease, and do they want to get to know you better? The Polite Society’s personal branding and lifestyle training will make the answer to these questions YES!
The Polite Society will help you navigate all the tricky situations you come across in daily life, and answer the questions that pop in your head throughout the day, like “should I have put my napkin there?”, “what do I tip the bellhop?”, and “what is the dress code for this event?”
Most people do not dine formally, attend weddings, host events, or begin their job search on a regular basis so they are often underprepared. The Polite Society will give you the information and skills you need to be prepared and confident in any social situation.
DINING ETIQUETTE
Dining is one of the most common etiquette topics, as most people are not accustomed to seeing a formal place setting on a regular basis. This can be intimidating, but learning the fundamentals of dining etiquette will put you at ease so you will be able to focus on enjoying your food and fine company, rather than reaching for the wrong utensil.
Whether at a cocktail party with passed hors d’oeuvres, a formal dinner, or a buffet luncheon, Polite Society’s Dining Etiquette experience will prepare you to approach the occasion with ease and confidence.
Key Topics:
Hosting: Dinner vs. Cocktail Party
Table Settings: Formal vs. Informal
The Fundamentals of Glassware, Cutlery & Napkins
How to Navigate Place Setting
Styles of Table Service
Table Manners
Seating Placement
Tricky Foods
Speeches and Toasts
Tipping/Paying the Bill
The Modern Lady
A modern lady is well put together, careful, studied and shows others that she cares and respects them by putting herself second in their company. However, she understands the importance of her own “brand”, and it takes a lot of effort to embody the following characteristics. She is empathetic, genuine, well-mannered and someone who keeps her word. It’s not just how she looks on the outside, it’s the calculated confidence that comes from within. These are not all easy traits, but traits that can be learned. From polishing the outside that becomes a first impression, to increasing awareness and learning when to speak and when to listen, The Polite Society’s Modern Lady will aid you in developing the skills to transform yourself into a modern lady.
Key Topics:
Personal Image: Dressing The Part
Carrying Yourself – Walking, Standing, Hand Placements, etc.
The Art of Entertaining: Being a Gracious Host or Guest
Self-awareness: from getting out of a car to first impressions
Dining Etiquette in Business and Social Settings
Communication and Correspondence
Avoiding Wardrobe Malfunctions, Accessorizing and Finishing Touches
Cocktail Party Etiquette
Modern Dating
THE Modern Gentleman
Many may think “chivalry is dead,” but a true gentleman’s kindness, consideration and respect is always appreciated. The Modern Gentleman experience will help you revisit the basics, while also increasing awareness of gentlemanly behavior in all situations. The rules may have changed, but behaving as a chivalrous, courteous, or honorable man will always be en vogue.
Key Topics:
Personal Image: Dressing The Part
Dining Etiquette in Social and Professional Settings
Happy Hour Bar Etiquette
Carrying Yourself – walking, standing, elevators
“Ladies” First: to open or not open the door?
Being a Good Host vs. Guest
Modern Dating Etiquette
Communication and Correspondence
Transportation Etiquette – driving, public transit, travel
Tipping