Etiquestions

ETIQUESTIONS

Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

Mask or no mask? I just never know these days.

Always take a mask with you, just in case. Usually, most places will have a sign posted on the entrance door if masks are required. Be prepared that some places still require masks.

Now that we are going back to inperson events, I am unsure whether people are comfortable hugging or not. What do I do?

Just like we had to do before the pandemic, I think it is always good to first assess what the comfort level of the other person is. A good rule is to extend your hand first for a handshake, and if the person seems open to a hug, then go for it. Of course, this all depends on culture and norms, but be mindful that many people are not ready for a lot of physical contact with others just yet.

I just attended a formal dinner in person last week and really didn’t know when to get started with my meal. Do you wait for everyone at the table to be served before you eat? Even if the group is large?

If possible, wait for everyone to be served before beginning to eat your meal. However, there are some exceptions. If the host/hostess grants permission for you to begin eating, go ahead. Also, if it has been over five minutes since you were served, but you are still waiting for others to be served, it is ok to begin eating as your food is getting cold. A good way to monitor when to eat is to keep an eye on the host. When the host begins, you can begin.

Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa, Ph.D. is a wife, mother, and educator living in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. She is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University with a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. In addition, she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Education from McLennan Community College, Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American, and a Master of Arts in Educational Supervision from the University of Texas – Pan American. Dr. Baggerly-Hinojosa’s current research is focused on servant leadership, gender issues in leadership, and leadership communication. www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com