Some Thoughts on Cultural Etiquette

May 12th, 2009 by savvyclub

Dear Friends,

What does Etiquette mean to you? The correct way to behave? The right thing to do? The dictionary defines it as the ‘acceptable rules of behaviour’. It’s often known in Britain as ‘The Done Thing’.

When you’re hosting or visiting your next social event, it’s worth bearing in mind how etiquette plays an important part in our social relationships with other people. The trouble is that etiquette changes widely in different parts of the world, even in different parts of Europe, so it can be tricky to settle on the correct set of ‘acceptable rules of behaviour’.

In Russia, it’s perfectly acceptable for someone to ask you ‘How much money do you make?’ Whereas in the UK, this would be considered highly vulgar, perhaps even offensive. It’s important to take care when receiving visitors from other countries, in China for instance, it is considered highly offensive to eat the final morsel from a plate. In America, to be polite – it’s expected to eat everything. Be sensitive to international visitors, and don’t correct others as that’s almost as crude as committing an error of etiquette in the first place.

As a rule, never do anything that would embarrass yourself or anyone else. Don’t bring up a topic that would ask someone else to reveal more than you were willing to reveal. Be tolerant and respectful, etiquette is considered old fashioned to many and whilst it is still respected among traditional families, it is distinctly out of favour with many others.

If you’re interested in receiving the most up to date guides on modern etiquette, you could purchase Debrett’s Guide. Debrett’s is considered the last word on British etiquette and they regularly update their new range of books to meet the new and changing circumstances of contemporary life.

Kind Regards

Kim Rix

The SaVVy Cub®- an exclusive social events club always delivering events that are intimate, stylish and memorable, allowing you to quickly meet a whole variety of people whilst exploring London’s finest places and enjoying the best and exclusive events.