Civility by Diana Olson:

1. Thank you notes: write within 24 hours to seven days. The earlier the better.

2. Introductions: say the most important person’s name first: elder, woman, girl, newcomer. Always rise for introductions. Introduce yourself and yourself to others. Address adults by the last name, unless permission is given to use first name.

3. Chewing gum: Chew gum only in private. Save the wrapper to place the gum in when throwing away.

4. RSVP: means to respond quickly to an invitation. The first invitation has the priority.

5. Borrowed items: Return borrowed items on time and in good condition.

If broken, these items need to be replaced.

6. House guest: never overstay your visit. Ben Franklin said, “Fish and company smell in three days!”

7. Party manners: Invite the least popular classmate to your party. This gesture can mean so much to this guest. If inviting most of the girls in your class, invite all of them; if inviting most of the boys in your class, invite all of them.

8. Volunteer work: Be a gracious volunteer in school, church, or community.

9. Dining manners: Eat a small amount of food at a time. Swallow food before talking. Wrists, not elbows, belong on the table. The host/hostess starts the dining by putting her napkin on her lap. Food is always passed to the right. Bread is torn into a bite size piece and buttered over the plate. Before taking a drink of water, blot the lips.

10. Conversations: When two people are talking, wait until there is a pause , and then say, “Excuse me” before interrupting the conversation.

11. Public property: Treat property with respect. No graffiti.

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Always be the best that you can be. Manners can be fun!

DIANA OLSON, MA, AICI, CIP, is a certified etiquette and image consultant. She can be contacted at www.dianaolson.com or diana@dianaolson.com to find out more about consultations or seminars.