One of the biggest mistakes you are apt to make when you are trying to impress for success is to think you know it all – even if you do! I have seen so many times when complacency or lack of focus can lead to some really embarrassing moments.
You wouldn’t believe what happened to me last week – On television, no less!”
There I was trying to be the best etiquette expert ever when I put my foot – rather both feet in my mouth; while explaining how to execute the perfect place setting (which I can do in my sleep). In my lack of focus moment I said “you place the knives on the left and the forks on the right” I was not aware of the faux pas until I saw the segment later that night. To say I was mortified is putting it mildly. I just wanted to crawl into a cocoon and go to sleep for the next year or so. Unfortunately, that is only wishful thinking, I have to face the reality of my faux pas and press on with my quest to create an etiquette revolution.
I have been inundated with calls from people wanting to know if there was an etiquette revision and when did it occur. Elizabeth J, one of the many callers who wanted to know if a left- handed place setting was now an accepted part of the traditional table setting routine really put a different spin on my dilemma. Her comment really got me thinking – these are her exact words “Joanna I am so glad this happened; it made me feel good to know that you are not perfect, that even you can slip up! I know you must be upset, but it makes me feel more empathetic towards you! Whew, we are not always aware of how people see us! Thanks for the reality check Elizabeth.
Another view point came from Eric and this really got me thinking – ‘Joanna congratulations on the interview – I think things like that can easily get to us! Especially, if we lean towards perfection or if we are uptight. However I think that the best thing to do is chalk it up and use in a future speech or talk. Things happen! – I was too chicken to ask him which category he put me in!
To reiterate, knives go to the right and forks go to the left. There however is one exception, the cocktail or shrimp fork is often placed to the right – on the outside of the knives, and usually sits next to the soup spoon. To make the rule less confusing some people place the cocktail/shrimp fork to the far left of the other forks. Either position is correct.
The experience was humbling, but I received support from several friends and mentors, this helped to buoy my spirits. Now here I am ready to go forth stronger that I was before. A sincere ‘thank you’ to all those who called or emailed, to express concern and offer support. I appreciate you all!
Joanna Parris is a leading expert when it comes to good manners and proper etiquette. She offers training programs and interactive workshops for anyone needing to enhance their image and etiquette. Joanna can be reached at joanna@bossselfpro.com
May 31, 2011 at 2:48 am |
Great post it is actually. My girlfriend has been seeking for this information.
June 13, 2011 at 1:15 pm |
Hello Centri,
Fantastic – Happy my article helped!
Best regards,
Joanna