Social Etiquette

Navigating the right way to handle every situation is a matrix of appropriate behavior, pleasant conversation and non-confrontational banter. We relive our stories through this hellscape of forced smiles and gifts that are welcome but not too expensive.

Many years ago when I worked in international television, representing TV shows for sales around the world, it was important to understand various cultures and what was acceptable during meetings. Eye contact, the correct handshake, personal space table manners and more were unique to each culture.

But growing up, Janice and I were exposed to all sorts of family and business situations where we were expected to behave in a distinct way. What’s right, what’s wrong, what’s acceptable, and was there a common list of behavior in social situations? That’s what we wanted to get into.

I’m not the guy to walk into a memorial service wearing shorts and a T-shirt that says “Eat the Rich,” or attend a formal dinner and drink out of the gravy boat. However, there are little parts of everyday life that can be gray areas. They are different from person to person. In fact, if there are specific stories from your life where social cues were crossed, we’d love to hear about them. -GH