Etiquette is a code of behavior that influences expectations for social behavior according to contemporary conventional norms within a society, social class, or group. – Wikipedia
To be honest, I’m not a huge fan of etiquette though I believe it has its place. It just seems like etiquette is a bunch of rules.
Those that take pride in knowing a lot of etiquette usually get offended by those who do not. There has to be some sort of grace within those rules. Nobody should take offense at ‘wrong etiquette’; if you can justify that the offending party has kind intentions.
Etiquette, I believe is a byproduct at the height of your refinement. Even if you don’t read etiquette books, you will figure it out, sooner or later.
•Always ask yourself, “What is the kindest way possible of doing this thing?”
•Etiquette is not putting others first in a way that you completely do not think of yourself.
•Etiquette rules should not be memorized because it is completely miserable. It should be birthed out of a kind and gracious spirit. In other words, etiquette rules should be ‘realized’ and ‘caught’.
•Etiquette differs from country, cultures to language and social norms differences, so don’t take offense at the differences in etiquette. Respect, learn and accept the differences.
• When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Don’t compare, don’t criticize.
• Social etiquette is the most important because it is about being considerate of peoples’ feelings.
It is better to be inspired and to have elegance and etiquette rub off you than to spend a whole evening with an old etiquette book that cannot update itself as quickly as the world evolves.