GREETINGS: First Impressions Do Count

GREETINGS: First Impressions

Do CountEtiquette Class – November 19, 2013

JUST DO IT

• The most important thing is to JUST DO IT – Make an effort to say “hello” even when you’re feeling shy or grumpy.

• Say “good morning” – It starts the day in a positive way for you and for the others, and it’s just weird if you don’t acknowledge people in the hall or when you walk into a room.

• Start at home – Do you say “good morning” to your parents or brothers and sisters at home? At the end of the day, do you ask, “How was your day?”

WHEN and HOW• The first time you see someone during the day, you should

verbally greet them unless that person is busy with other people or in a place of silence (like church). If you can’t verbally greet them then, either give them a friendly wave or wait to say “hello” later.

• Everyone deserves a greeting. At school be sure to greet all the adults you encounter and even your classmates.

• When in public, always greet cashiers, waiters, waitresses, etc. that help you. A smile and a friendly hello will make for a better experience for you both, and don’t forget “please” and “thank you.”

MEETING FOR THE 1ST TIME

• Stand up straight, look the person in the eye, and speak clearly.

• Always STAND to greet people when you can, especially when someone is older than you.

• Tips: Add a slight pause between your first and last name. It helps people hear you and remember your name. Also, help people make a personal connection by adding information of shared interest if you can.

• Example: It’s very nice to meet you! I’m Brandi Evans. I teach at Florala High School. Video

SHAKING HANDS• Extend your right hand – thumb separated, forming a V.

• Clasp the other’s right hand, interlocking the V’s.

• Grip firmly but not too hard – Rule: Grip as firmly as if you were grabbing the refrigerator door.

• If you’re wearing a name tag, put it on your right side because it will be easy to see when shaking hands.

Tips: A “dead fish” shake means you’re not interested in the person, so don’t do that! Putting the left hand on top of the shake means you’re trying to intimidate the person, so don’t do that either! Video

INTRODUCTIONS• Always introduce in order of importance – older people and women

first.

• Say: “I’d like you to meet…” -OR- “I’d like to introduce you to…” -NOT- “Come here and meet…”

• Children should always refer to adults by title, even if you call them by their first name. Examples: Principal Colvin or Mrs. Colvin, our principal; Mrs. McNeill; Miss Evans; Miss Brandi; or Aunt Susan.

• If you’re introducing two of your peers, you’d simply use first and last names for both.

Tip: Respond back to an introduction with the person’s name – it will help you remember it. “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Smith.” Video

SO JUST DO IT!• Start when you get home today! What will you do?

• In the morning how will you start your day with good manners?