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The Butler Speaks…A Guide to Stylish Entertaining, Etiquette and the Art of Good Housekeeping

May 7, 2013 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

Ok, Ok, perhaps you don’t want to learn about good housekeeping but I highly recommend this compendium of very worthwhile information written by Canada’s own Charles MacPherson. You may have seen him on the Marilyn Denis show…always a treat to watch!

MacPherson’s book is peppered with a little history, a little instruction, a lot of information and a touch of humour. To tell you how good it is, I read it in one night, he kept me wanting more and more! MacPherson is no stranger to the world of service. He is the founder of Charles MacPherson Associates Inc. the only registered school of butlers and household managers in North America and we are fortunate that his organization is located in Toronto, Ontario.

The book is a “go to” manual for anyone who loves to entertain for business or pleasure. Twenty-first century dining etiquette, business etiquette, household organization and so much more is found between the pages of this book. He even includes a wine pairing list at the back of the book for those new to selecting wines.

As I think about our clientele here at the Canadian School of Protocol, I can’t help but think all my students would benefit from having this book on their shelf. Not only is it an interesting read, but it is a manual for anyone who wants to hone their social and business skills and take their career to the next level.

Perhaps you are new to business entertaining at a restaurant or in the home, this is the book to show you how to prepare with finesse. Perhaps you are in the market for domestic help in the home, or perhaps you want to pursue a life in household service, this book is a must read. Or…perhaps you are a Downton Abbey fan, well Charles takes you one step further in your understanding of what goes on upstairs and downstairs and why it is important!

Coming soon, a chance to win this book….details to follow!

Filed Under: business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, customer service, dining etiquette, Downton Abbey, Entertaining for business, etiquette, Finishing School, Household service, Leadership Skills, manners, mother's day, Netiquette, Prepatory School, summer jobs, teenagers, Uncategorized Tagged With: business etiquette, children's etiquette, etiquette, manners, moms with kids

Don’t Scream at Me!

April 29, 2013 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

Rarely do people pause and reflect on the intonation of their voice. Intonation you say? Yes, the “feeling” conveyed in the tone of your voice. It is that subtle way a simple statement can be misinterpreted as a screaming demand. How you use your voice can affect employment opportunities, friendships, promotions and so much more. Marilyn Monroe may have had a sexy voice for movies but in the workplace, that type of voice limits your effectiveness with others. Similarly, a short, gruff answer to a question can make others in your company feel awkward and fearful, less inclined to speak to you in the future. Practicing your voice intonation with a friend can help you in your business and personal life. Proper intonation helps nurture relationships because your voice sounds confident yet caring. And a confident, caring voice speaks volumes about how others perceive you and your abilities. For further help with voice intonation and other etiquette tips, send us an email or give us a call, we would love to help!

Filed Under: business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, customer service, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, Netiquette, summer jobs, teenagers, Uncategorized Tagged With: voice

Netiquette Tips for Kids of All Ages!

April 23, 2013 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

With Social media bullying at an all time high, I thought some tips to share with family and friends might be of help to minimize conflict on the internet.
1. Always choose the words you use in a message carefully. If you would not say it to someone’s face, don’t say it on social media. Read your words out loud to see if the meaning of them resonates correctly. It is difficult to gauge the tone of an email or text so remember to choose words that convey the “feeling” you are trying to capture.
2. Don’t gossip. What you write on any social media can be a permanent record of your words.
3. It is o.k. to use abbreviated words in a text to your best friend but it appears sloppy and unreadable when sending to a colleague or adult.
4. Be sensitive to posting pictures of yourself and others. Always ask permission before posting on the web, you may be in violation of permission in certain cases.
5. Remember, before any interview, the employer is probably on Google seeing what you have been up to, therefore, BEHAVE!!

Filed Under: anti-bullying, business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, customer service, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, Netiquette, summer jobs, teenagers, Uncategorized

Where Do I Look?

March 27, 2013 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

I remember watching a talk show host describe eye contact with the actor John Travolta. She said he was one of those individuals who always maintained steady, almost burrowing, eye contact with the person to whom he was speaking. At first she found it intimidating, but in time, began to appreciate his undivided attention.

Eye contact is one of the most important soft skills we use in North America, especially in business. Various cultures around the world see full eye contact as disrespectful, not so though in Canada. When meeting someone for the first time, it is important to look them in the eye when greeting them, it says “you are important to me and I am ready to listen to what you have to say”.

However, if you are a shy person, it may be more difficult for you to make eye contact and so I always recommend you look in what we call the imaginary triangle. If you were to draw a small triangle, the outer points running through the iris of the eye, and the tip landing just slightly above the eyebrows, you would be looking directly in the middle to simulate eye contact. It gives the impression that you are looking at the individual without the direct contact with the iris. Direct contact of course, is the best option but when unable to make direct contact, this is a close second.

Filed Under: business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, customer service, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, summer jobs, Uncategorized

Summer Job Tips for Students!

February 22, 2013 By Wendy Mencel 3 Comments

If you are a student, you are probably well aware that it is summer job interview time! With the demand for summer jobs outweighing the number available, how will you distinguish yourself from your colleagues? Technique and ability are not enough to stand out from the crowd. Here are five tips to get you started.

1. Make sure your wardrobe spells polished and professional, not tattered and worn. Understand the “dress” culture of the place of employment and seek to emulate that in your interview. The five o’clock shadow look may work in certain venues but may be found offensive in others.

2. How you present yourself in the first four minutes will determine if the employer is going to be interested in what you have to say. Make eye contact, smile, use a confident voice and firm handshake.

3. You are going to be asked questions about yourself….keep it professional. No one wants to know about your love life or your hangnail. Keep it focused on your skills and how they will be of value to the employer. Having said that, don’t be so serious that you can’t make small talk, learning how to chat without being too personal is key to developing rapport.

4. Practice your elevator speech. Your story should be second nature to you so that when the interviewer asks what your strengths are…there is no dead silence. It is important as well, to have some questions that you would like to ask the employer. Come prepared with them.

5. Send a thank you note within 48 hours to the employer. That would be a pen and paper type thank you note, not a tweet or email. You will stand out as someone who goes the extra mile.

Filed Under: business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, summer jobs, Uncategorized

Stand Out from the Crowd!

February 10, 2013 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

New entrants into the workplace always ask us what will help them stand apart and get ahead of the competition. They are usually looking for some complex theoretical model that speaks to success. Unfortunately or fortunately, however you look at it, the best way to stand out is to incorporate simply kindness and courtesy into your everyday behavior. From a firm but friendly handshake to a simple “thank you” stands out in our society. Have a job interview? Send a hand written note after to say “thanks” and you will differentiate yourself from those who can’t be bothered. In an office setting, sharpen your listening skills and pay attention to details and you will stand out from the crowd. Look for the good in your coworkers and clients and let them know. How often do you feel special when someone pays you a genuine compliment? Don’t gossip. Avoid the negativity trap at work, if you do, you will stand out as honest, fair and diligent. In an increasingly global economy, sloppiness in language, dress and attitude can cost you your job. Hw R U? may work when texting your friends but is very career limiting in the workplace. If you need help with spelling, use your spell check or an online dictionary to help when drafting emails, letters and company documents. Using positive words in any document or discussion is a plus when wanting to stand out. Finally, remember that everyone you meet has a story. They have a history, a present, and dreams for their future, genuinely listen and genuinely care, they will remember you!

Filed Under: business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, Uncategorized

PD Day Etiquette Camp!

January 6, 2013 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

Spaces limited for this all day camp.

Join us for Etiquette and Leadership Camp on Friday January 18, 2013 from 8:45-4:15! Children will learn the Seven Ingredients of a Good Introduction, Everyday Table Manners, Self-esteem and Confidence Building skills, Leadership skills, Social Media and Telephone Etiquette, and much more. These skills are invaluable as your child continues on their journey in life! We engage the students in fun activities and role playing to reinforce the lessons that are being taught. Each child receives a workbook and certificate of completion. Snacks and pizza lunch provided. Cost is $75.

Event Registration

To register and pay for an event, please fill out the form on our events page and choose the class you are paying for under “Event Payment”.

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Enter to Win our Holiday Giveaway!

December 8, 2012 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

Its Better to give than to receive, so let the holiday giving begin !!

Enter to win our Holiday Giveaway !

Grand Prize: An interactive, fun and educational Workshop in the London area for up to 30 participants (grades 4-12) for your child’s class or club on the perfect topic for your group. This is a $250 value.

Second Prize: A Canadian School of Protocol 45 minute private dining tutorial in the London area, gift basket including thank you notes, Starbucks’s coffee card, and chocolates. This is a $100 value.

To Enter: Simply sign up for our free newsletter before December 31st !!! Current subscribers are automatically entered.

Filed Under: business etiquette, children's etiquette, children's manners, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, Uncategorized

Company Party Etiquette!

November 19, 2012 By Wendy Mencel Leave a Comment

It is that time of year again when the annual company party is upon us. Here are some tips that will help you navigate your way through what can be a fun but anxious time. First and foremost, find out the proper attire for the evening, is it formal, semi-formal or casual. You don’t want to show up to a black tie in your ripped jeans. Secondly, find out if you are to bring anything to eat or drink. Ask whether it is a gift giving occasion and if so, what is the price limit and is it draw from a hat , a themed gift or bottle of wine and for whom. If it is being held at someone’s home, it is a nice gesture to arrive with a small gift of appreciation such as a packet of lovely napkins, bottle of nice wine, or flowers. It is important to watch how much you eat or drink. Too often there is always someone who digs into the appetizers and plows back the stuffed mushrooms before others have had a chance to taste them. This is a sign of lack of discipline and it can harm your career. The same goes for drinking too much alcohol, people are watching and evaluating. Try and make polite and light conversation. Digging into politics or religion can be a slippery slope especially if your views are completely different than other guests. Use this as a time to really listen and get to know your colleagues better. It can only help promote a positive work environment. And finally, send a note of thanks to whomever organized it, even if it was a formal company function. Someone was running around making last minute preparations and they will value being thanked and it makes you stand out as someone who cares about the company and its people.

Filed Under: business etiquette, dining etiquette, etiquette, manners, Uncategorized

Linky with my Sassy Friend!!!

November 15, 2012 By Wendy Mencel 2 Comments

My friend Stephanie has started a ” linky” process by which we can vent our frustrations on her website. Check her out at howtosurvivelifeinthesuburbs.com. I love it because really, it is about venting our frustration over manners and etiquette or lack of……. (but don’t tell her…..) So I chose to vent today about a pet peeve of mine which is chewing styles of various family members.

It started when I was a child, I could barely sit at the dinner table without finding my dads chewing absolutely making my stomach churn. He wasn’t a “chew with your mouth open” kind of guy, but it was the way his mouth moved and the clicking sound of his jaw that drove me crazy. This problem progressed into adulthood and now, much to my chagrin, I have passed on this terrible trait to my kids.

When I am at the table with a chomping chewer, this is what goes through my head.

Dear Family Member that has driven me into therapy:

Could you please stop smacking your lips and making that aweful noise, or have the decency to eat away from the table so those who know how to dine can continue their meal in quiet? Better yet Mr., could you please not talk to me with food in your mouth? I know that the salad has a variety of veggies in it, but I don’t need to see the composting going on in your oral cavity, let alone, watch it fall onto your chest or worse, my table! And while we are at it, could you not lick your fingers after eating your hamburger? I get the chicken wings/rib licking but a hamburger? Seriously, it is only ketchup and I’ll get you a spoon, better yet, your own bottle to be eaten in the basement far away from my table. Try and take smaller bites, that way your dinner might last more than 2 minutes. After all, it took me over an hour to prepare it. Love you, me!!!