First, starting out in learning and understanding etiquette, I mistakenly gave a gift of a beautiful glass crystal clock to my Asian coach. In horror, after reading her extremely kind email of thanks, she explained to me the cultural differences between what the Chinese thought of clocks and the superstition behind them. What a cultural etiquette faux pas to make! Cultural differences significantly impact communication and etiquette by values, and expectations in social interactions. These variations can be subtle or more pronounced, influencing various aspects of communication, including verbal and nonverbal language, directness, and politeness norms. So you are probably now asking what is cultural etiquette? or what is cultural protocol? or even this....what are the rules of cultural etiquette? and how do you follow cultural protocol? Here are several pointers that can help when speaking to international counterparts at work or travelling on a holiday: Communication Styles: Different cultures may have varying preferences for communication styles, such as directness versus indirectness. Some cultures value explicit and straightforward communication, while others prioritise implicit or indirect expression.
Non-Verbal Cues: Body language, gestures, and facial expressions can convey different meanings in various cultures. What is considered acceptable or respectful in one culture may be interpreted differently in another, leading to potential misunderstandings.
Hierarchy and Authority: The perception of hierarchy and authority varies across cultures. In some cultures, there is a strict adherence to hierarchical structures, while others may adopt a more egalitarian approach. This influences how individuals express themselves and respond to authority figures.
Greeting Customs: The way people greet each other can vary widely. Some cultures embrace physical contact, like hugs or kisses, while others prefer a more reserved approach, such as a bow or a handshake. Understanding these differences is crucial in avoiding unintentional disrespect.
Gift-Giving Customs: The etiquette surrounding gift-giving can differ significantly. In some cultures, gifts are opened immediately, while in others, it may be considered polite to open them later privately. Additionally, the types of gifts that are appropriate can vary.
Dress Code: Cultural norms regarding dress code can impact how individuals present themselves in various settings. Understanding the expectations around attire is crucial for demonstrating respect and appropriateness.
Awareness of these cultural differences is essential for effective cross-cultural communication and for navigating social situations with sensitivity and respect. The key to bridging the cultural gaps is to pay attention to nonverbal cues and adapt communication styles accordingly. Practising patience and having an open mind. Asking questions and seeking clarification when uncertain to avoid misinterpretations and, last but not least, embracing and celebrating cultural diversity. Our world is an amazing place!
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This coming May, millions of people around the world will gather in front of television sets and computer screens, to watch what to many, is a once in a blue moon event. Like a rather rare celestial event, the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla of England, will be watched with great anticipation, and with many questions in people’s minds. Who will be in attendance? Will it just be working Royals and the landed gentry? Or will it include commoners or nonworking Royals, who have travelled in for the event? Who will be participating in the ceremony? Will favoured charities have members in attendance? Everyone wants a seat to see the leader of this new slimmed down monarchy crowned King. Who are those favoured few who have already received “save the date” emails from Buckingham Palace. No one knows for certain. Other questions have had the talking heads on radio, television and podcasts asking about the traditions which have long been the standard for British coronations. Will Charles and Camilla be sticking with tradition? Or will they stray from the norm. Will traditions evolve to include changes in Royal protocol? Many in the news are speculating. But we really won’t know everything until the 6th of May. The protocol of coronations in Great Britain goes back over 1000 years. Gleaning from European traditions, government and religion entwined and evolved over time to bring us what we have seen in the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 and soon, King Charles III and his Queen, this May. What To Expect What can you expect at a coronation today? The ultimate guidebook for the Royal family is Liber Regalis (Royal Book), created in 1382. It has assisted members for over 600 years in organising this state event. This book may have captured elements of the event created by Saint Dunstan for King Edgar’s coronation ceremony at Bath Abbey in 973. Then in 1066, the crowing of William the Conqueror saw proceedings take place at Westminster Abby, where it remains today. When Did It All Start As Queen Elizabeth II was Lying-in-State and the fully planned State Funeral was being held, the organisation for the crowning of King Charles III began. The significant players overseeing this momentous event are the coronation committee comprising the Government of the United Kingdom, the Royal Household, the Privy Council and the Church of England. What do these bodies need to consider when planning a coronation? The coronation date, its proclamation, the price, who attends, the required furniture, music and the honours conferred to mark the grand occasion. Of course, modern safety laws have to be adhered to, so the number of those in attendance has already been slashed by the thousands. Many are already disappointed, fearing they will never receive the coveted email and confirmation of their expected attendance from Buckingham Palace. And if someone does receive a coveted email to attend the coronation, does that mean all is well? Some members of the peerage, who wear their coronets and robes only at a coronation, have waited a lifetime for this opportunity. Will they be disheartened in the end? Rumour has it that disappointed duchesses have had a traditional key role of theirs dismantled in the coronation ceremony. The queen wants her five grandchildren to take centre stage at the coronation alongside the King’s royal heirs, performing a role previously given to duchesses. This role has in coronations past, been performed as the new Queen is anointed with holy oil. And what of the new King’s pledge to make the coronation more inclusive of other religions? In the ceremony, the Archbishop of Canterbury by tradition, asks the King three lengthy questions. These are specifically regarding the Church of England. The coronation has now been shortened to one hour from the original three hours. Will those questions by the Archbishop be shortened or eliminated altogether? Will they and actually include the mention of other religions? For more about the Coronation at Westminster Abbey, please go to >> westminister-abbey.org The Crowning Event
The main event occurs at Westminster Abbey, where the King will be escorted by carriage from Buckingham Palace. Rumor has it that the very uncomfortable, but exquisite gold carriage, that previous Kings and Queens have used for the ceremony, will not be used in May. Will this have the look of an ordinary, albeit exciting royal wedding, instead of an extraordinary coronation? Once there, the Procession to the Abbey begins quickly to move to the Procession inside the Abby. There begins The Recognition of King Charles III. After that, one can expect hymns to be sung during and after the Coronation Oath and The Anointing. The Homage is where the highly anticipated and photographed moment of a coronation occurs, where King Charles III is given the Orb placed into his right hand and the Scepter, which he holds with his left hand, as well as golden bracelets and a ring. Once this occurs, the choir will sing anthems, drums beats, trumpets sound, and joyful crying out to mark the crowing of Great Britain's new King. Camilla, The Queen Consort, will be crowned after the Homage takes place. Once that is complete, the departure will occur, and esteemed guests, family and hosts will make their way from Westminster Abbey to Buckingham Palace to be seen by thousands of onlookers and broadcasted to millions. The King and the Queen Consort, along with the Members of the Royal Family, will assemble for a perfectly Instagramable balcony appearance. The day ends with a Coronation banquet. Life After The Crown In the days and months after the Coronation, there will be many public opportunities for the new King and Queen to meet their subjects. These traditionally begin with a Coronation Review of the Fleet, Service of thanksgiving, UK and Commonwealth tours, Coronation portraits, and most importantly, the Investiture of the Prince of Wales. The Investiture tells the world who will be the next in succession to the throne. For more about the Coronation, please go to >> cornontion.gov.uk Etiquette classes are instructional sessions designed to teach 'the how's" of protocol and manners in various settings. These classes cover a range of topics, including dining etiquette, table manners, communication skills, digital etiquette, professional conduct, business etiquette, and cultural awareness and special occasions etiquette Participants learn how to navigate social situations with grace, demonstrate politeness, and present themselves confidently. Etiquette classes are often sought by individuals who wish to enhance their social skills, boost professionalism, or adapt to specific social norms in different contexts, such as business, formal events, or international interactions. Etiquette classes are typically taught by certified etiquette instructors who have extensive experience in the field. The instructors use a variety of teaching methods, including presentations, discussions, role-playing, and hands-on activities. Etiquette classes can be found online, in person, or through private instruction. Trained instructors typically conduct these classes, providing practical guidance and insights to help individuals navigate real-life scenarios with poise and confidence... There are a number of benefits to taking an etiquette class. These include:
Embark on a journey and learn the how's and why of etiquette and enrol in our etiquette classes today! Limited bookings available. Register now! Contact us today and book in a 15-minute concierge phone or zoom call. Embrace etiquette, elevate your life.
G'day mates! If you've ever found yourself down under and felt like you were speaking a different language, fear not! You've just stumbled upon the land of Aussie slang, where the lingo (language) is as unique as the wildlife (kangaroos and koalas). So, chuck on your thongs, grab a cold stubby, and let's dive into the dinkum world of Australian slang. G'day, Mate! - The quintessential Aussie greeting, "G'day" is short for "good day." It's a laid-back way to say hello, whether you're meeting a friend or just passing by. And "mate"? Well, that's your buddy, your pal, your cobber. Aussies throw it around like confetti. Fair Dinkum - If something is fair dinkum, it's genuine, real, and true. Aussies use it to vouch for the authenticity of a statement or to express disbelief. "You caught a fish this big? Fair dinkum?" Arvo - We love to shorten words. Afternoon becomes "arvo." So, if someone asks to catch up in the arvo, it means they're suggesting a meet-up later in the day. Thongs - No, not the underwear. In Australia, thongs are flip-flops. So, if someone tells you to put on your thongs before hitting the beach, they're not getting too personal—they just want you to be comfortable!
Chuck a U-ey - When you're driving and suddenly need to make a U-turn, you "chuck a U-ey." It's as simple as that. Just be sure to check for kangaroos before you swing around! Barbie - No, not the doll. Aussies love to throw a prawn (shrimp) or snag (sausage) on the barbie (barbecue). It's practically a national pastime. So, if someone invites you to a barbie, expect farm fresh food, good company, and maybe a cold beverage or two. Stubby - Speaking of beverages, a stubby is a small bottle of beer. Whether you're enjoying it on a scorching arvo or at a ripper party, a stubby is a quintessential Aussie refreshment. There you have it—a crash course in fair dinkum Aussie slang. When someone asks if you're keen for a chinwag (small talk) over a cuppa (coffee or tea) or a cold one (beer), you'll be ready to join the ranks of true blue Aussies. Cheers, mate! |
AuthorElizabeth Soos Archives
August 2024
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