It seems that proper etiquette includes many rules and can seem a bit much. However, when we know these simple rules, we appear socially savvy. Let’s delve a bit into one of those obscure but often followed set of rules.
Introducing Others Shouldn’t be Intimidating
We
introduce others often, don’t we? Of course, we do. In fact, I was sitting with
friends just yesterday when someone I hadn’t seen in years walked up and I
found myself in the position of having to introduce her to everyone seated with
me.
Sometimes
we may feel intimidated or insecure about introducing others as if it is a foreign
skill. Believe me, it isn’t that difficult. There are rules though. Well, only if
you wish to appear socially savvy anyway. So, how to introduce others?
I’d Like to Introduce You to...
It
is easier to follow the ‘rules’ if you mention the person you are introducing
someone to by saying his or her name first. Always introduce people by their
first and last name, preceded by their title, and followed by a bit of
information specifically about them.
A
proper greeting would be to say, “It is so nice to meet you.” It is always best
to repeat that person’s name, not only because it is polite, but also because
doing so will help you remember the name.
Younger People Are Introduced to Their Elders
This
is an important rule that many forget. In fact, when I mention “respect your
elders” to some of my young clients, they haven’t a clue what I am talking
about. This is unfortunate.
Here
is a perfect example of an informal introduction of a younger person introduced
to his elder. You will notice that I use no titles and there is no “to you”.
This is the form we use quite often in our casual society.
Example:
Mom,
“This is my college roommate Juan Gutierrez.” Juan, “This is my mother, Jacklyn
Crowder.”
Guests Are Introduced to the Hosts
Hopefully
hosts know all their guests. But there are times hosts offer their guests a
plus-one. You would be expected to introduce this person.
Example:
Jane
and John, “I would like to introduce to you my date and very old friend Mr.
Samuel Gutiérrez. He shares your affinity for growing organic vegetables.”
Samuel, “This is the wonderful couple I told you about, Jane—who is an
accomplished pianist—and John Smith—who loves hiking and grills the best steak
in town.”
Introduce People to Others With Higher Standings
...such
as a senator, governor, mayor, clergy, etc…. In the workplace, your client is the
most important person.
This
is the rule that also applies to the workplace. We introduce others to those of
higher rank.
Example:
“Good
morning, Professor Jane Chow, I would like to introduce to you, my cousin, who
shares your enthusiasm for flowers, Mr. John Frank. And John, this is my
neighbor who grows those beautiful orchids I was telling you about.”
Please
note:
It
is not necessary to repeat names. As you notice above, I mentioned Professor
Jane Chow only once.
Please
Read
How Children Are Teaching Their
Parents Manners
Etiquette
101: How to write a Condolence Card or Letter
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