Each year, we challenge you to extend your New Year’s resolutions to include etiquette.

Every New Year, we tend to build a list of resolutions for self-improvement. When the end of December rolls around, we take a moment to think back and set positive goals for ourselves that will inspire worthwhile changes in our lives. For many, New Year’s resolutions are based on improving one’s physical health, which usually includes diets or exercise regimes. However, New Year’s resolutions should also contain goals that will improve your personal or work life! The simplest way to reach your goals for self-improvement is to abide by proper etiquette.

Social etiquette can be particularly useful for everyday situations, including dating. If you want to gain someone’s trust and respect, make some room for social etiquette on your New Year’s resolution list. Professional etiquette, particularly business etiquette, can also help you improve your overall reputation in the workplace. If you plan on getting ahead and aiming for a promotion this New Year, you’ll definitely need to consider including basic business etiquette rules on your resolutions list!

With a New Year, it’s time for a New You! Here are 4 basic etiquette rules to keep in mind for the New Year. The following tips will help you make the right choices, in whatever situation you are in:

1. Pick an outfit that is appropriate and suitable for the occasion.
   Whether you are going to a party or an interview, always decide what to wear prior to the event and make sure you are abiding the dress code. For interviews, it’s usually quite clear – business formal. However, for an event, decoding a dress code can be trickier. If the invitation doesn’t specify the dress code, feel free to contact the host or gather clues by looking at the time and location of the event. This will help to eliminate any awkward situations.
2. Wear an outfit that fits and compliments your figure.
   Take the time to figure out what your body type is and wear outfits that flatter your figure. As time goes on, styles change. The New Year is the perfect time to go through your closet and have a clean-up. Keep the outfits that flatter you and donate the outfits that don’t. If you aren’t sure what is flattering, don’t be shy to invite a friend for advice. Keep in mind, if an outfit is tight and requires you to squeeze into it – it’s not flattering! If in doubt, opt for a size slightly bigger.
3. When dining, sit up straight, don’t talk with food in your mouth, and keep your elbows off the table.
   This tip can be used at home or at a social gathering with friends or co-workers. It is a useful etiquette rule that will strengthen your behavior and reputation in the New Year. It may be difficult to resist putting your elbows on the table, but if you catch yourself and remember to keep them off the table, soon it will become natural.
4. Be engaged and participate in conversation.
   Whenever in the presence of others, whether at a dinner table or waiting by the elevator, be respectful by saying hello and encourage conversation. Today we are faced with the existence of smartphones and our attention is usually distracted because of them. When dining with others, make your best effort to participate in conversation. Avoid topics that include politics, religion, or health issue. Try to include everyone at the table and avoid looking at your phone.

Celebrate the New Year with a ‘New You’ with proper etiquette that will help you achieve all your goals. Elizabeth offers in-person classes and classes via Zoom. Tell us your preference and your location and we will get back to you soon!