Etiquestions

from SOCIALIFE MAGAZINE | SEPTEMBER 2022

Petiquette

ETIQUESTIONS

Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

Lately, I have been trying hard to work on my body language so that others perceive me as warm and competent. Do you have any etiquette tips that might help me? I am a social person but often get misunderstood.

Learning how to convey warmth and competence is an essential social skill. Your question is very important. According to Harvard psychologist Amy Cuddy, perceptions of warmth and competence account for roughly 90 percent of the variability in whether others perceive you positively or negatively. Research shows that eye contact, nodding, and smiling are three key physical indicators of warmth. Try looking at the person talking and ensure you are smiling and paying attention.

I am getting ready for all the Fall social events and always have trouble with small talk. What are some etiquette tips that can help me?

Mastering the art of small talk and making polite conversation is a staple activity of social etiquette. Always have something to say. Know a little about a lot of things. Take the initiative; don’t just stand there at events. Open the conversation by being in the moment. Then, go on to other appropriate topics of conversation such as news events, sports, entertainment, travel, hobbies, etc. Just remember to smile and engage. Eye contact is important, and remember to listen well.

I am super excited because gala season is about to begin. What are your top suggestions for me to put my best foot forward?

Yay for gala season! I am excited for this season as well. My best advice is to sharpen your dining skills and table manners. Let’s face it, we are often judged by our table manners, and we often judge others by their table manners.