It's surprising that I've never come across graphics like the one pinned to this post before, even though variations of it have reportedly circulated online for years. I truly hope this all started as a joke. However, as an etiquette trainer, I feel compelled to clarify the truth about what your cutlery should – and shouldn’t – be communicating to those serving you during a meal.

In today’s digital world, many customer service systems are either initiated by or fully run by chatbots, which are powered by AI. As these bots become a more frequent part of our daily lives, it's important to consider how we should conduct ourselves when engaging with them.

This is a question I often hear in my etiquette courses: How do I show my personality but still follow a business dress code?

One of the interesting elements of Severance is how it portrays the culture of Lumon Industries, particularly the use of formal and informal names. The show’s writers effectively illustrate a status-oriented environment—one that emphasizes respect through recognition of hierarchical structures.

It can be difficult to maintain civility in the midst of all of the arguments and comments that proliferate online. How do you keep from giving oxygen to those determined to engage in battle on social media channels?

Always, but especially during National Protocol Officers Week, I send my gratitude to fellow protocol professionals for your tireless work!

A recent question in a news advice column that caught my eye was from a reader who wrote in wondering if the host of a dinner party was obligated by etiquette rules to provide a different first course because the reader did not like cold cucumber soup. To quote some of my favorite etiquette podcasters: “Bonkers!”

Are hand-written notes the next thing that we will delegate to AI robots?

Interruptions can create an environment in which others do not feel valued or included, whether in the workplace or in social settings. How might we consider our own behavior to minimize interrupting or being interrupted in our communications?

Why is it important that we receive compliments with graciousness?

EDI statements are part of nearly every current job posting. How does the use of jargon conflict with goals for inclusion?

Many gift giving holidays are just around the corner. How can we make them beautiful while also considering sustainability?

Dug from “Up” does not approve of strong fragrances! How should these be handled in the workplace?

Dress codes can vary across industries, but some things seem to take “casual” a bit too far.