Susan's Blog » GLOBAL MANNERS 2.0:Tolerance, Respect, and Great Social Skills

What’s in a name? 

Apparently, everything if you ask thinkers of various focus from Malcolm Gladwell  to psychology of finance experts to Kabalarian philosophers.  According to such intellectuals, names and words have meaning that affects the behavior of both the named and the environment and people touched by the name. 

I’ve never been asked why I chose the name, Global Manners, most likely because it’s topical.  But,while most people get that “Global” relates to “the whole world”, “"Manners” is usually interpreted as simply referring to “polite or well-bred behavior.” More accurately, Manners pertains to “a person’s outward bearing or way of behaving toward others.” Therefore, the word “manners” means simply how we act towards others. 

It’s no epiphany that the expression of manners occurs via the social skills we use while interacting with people.  Therefore, “manners” can be exemplary,good, mediocre, or simply “bad” and deserving of the label “rude.” So, which social skills are most noticed and judged?  Whether conscious or not,people note how you enter a room or a group of people, how you introduce yourself and others, and how sincere you look doing so.  Your handshake communicates respect, trustworthiness, and likeability; a bad handshake sends a less favorable message.  The ability to start, engage, and close a conversation trumpets social polish and proficiency.  And, people do notice your manner of approaching the dining table, using your napkin and tableware, handling your drinks, and engaging in appropriate conversation. Cultural sensitivity and global awareness is necessary in both business and social interactions in today’s world, lest we risk offending others. 

Bottom line, “global” manners are very 2.0, which refers to the second generation of etiquette and manners.  2.0
manners are characterized by their ability to communicate kindness, respect,tolerance, and empathy.  Like “Web 2.0”, they facilitate communication and information sharing, interpersonal connections, and business collaboration. Understanding the name, Global Manners 2.0, assists us in understanding the rules for success on the renewed social platform of tolerance, respect, and civility.