3 Ways for Introductions to Dignitaries, Officials, Diplomats

Gentiquette - Gabriel Saldarriaga:
Sometimes in life we meet great people. Some people have a slightly higher status due to the political nature of our current world. In this post we'll tackle 3 ways to introduce and make a first impression with dignitaries, officials, and diplomats. 

They are the ones in the Spotlight

When introducing what we'll shorten to a VIP.  Say one of the following “May I present?” “May I present to you?” “May I introduce?” “May I introduce to you?”

This signifies that they are the one being presented and in the spotlight due to their political weight over others in the situation.

Responding to said 'VIPs'

Knowing how to respond is just ask important! You can't just say "What up dawg?" Unless you're Snoop Dog. In that case thank you for reading my blog! 

An accept response would be along the lines of “Senator, it’s a pleasure to be in your presence.”

This puts emphasis on the fact that it is you meeting them not them meeting you. Which is a great sign of respect for someone with such political weight.

Is that a Hieroglyphic?

Let's be honest. Us Americans sometimes think everyone should bend to our whim when it comes to having names. Well let me write you a check. How much money? Hmmmm. How about Reality? Sometimes there will be times you don't know how to pronounce the names of VIPs.

If you cannot pronounce their name fret not; you only need to use their title. So as long as you know that. You're in the clear! However, do make an effort to find out so you can retell the name of the person to people whom you meet after the event!

5 Quick Rules of Eye Contact

Gentiquette - Gabriel Saldarriaga:

Oh the famous Eye Contact! This one is a bit troubling. Since sometimes it feels like we are peering right into someone's soul... So let's go over a few things to avoid that!

Not Always Looking

Direct eye contact is perfect when you’re looking around 50% of the time. Less than 40%, and you appear uninterested, shy, and untrustworthy. More than 60% of the time and you appear doubtful and intimidating.

Focus Correctly

Focus on the space above the nose and between the eyes. That's the perfect spot to look. So if you never knew... Now you do!

Use In Context

Make sure to keep in mind when you meet someone to maintain eye contact while meeting and shaking someone’s hand. It's imperative you set a foundation of trust from the start.

Do Other Actions - You're Not High

Don't look like you're contemplating life's existence in your head. Even if you're intently listening! Nod approval occasionally. Possibly even say things like "Right." from time to time.

Don't Lose Focus

Don’t let your eyes glance around the room. That makes you look bored and uninterested. Also try to refrain from staring. It's a hard balance to get right. However, when you do you'll start to notice that most people are bad at this.

3 Peak Lapel Rules

Gentiquette - Gabriel Saldarriaga:

As I write this from the line at the Airport I thought to make a quick post about 3 rules for peak lapels.

1. A lapel where the rever points upward, and comes back to join the collar at an acute angle.
2. It is used for normal single-breasted jackets, usually the two button model.
3. It is always found on double breasted jackets. Please don't break this rule and try to be "fashionable" if you do. Send me a picture so I can put it in my shame folder.
 

Sorry for the quick post! Just thought everyone should know since that's what I'm wearing to fly to Florida in a few minutes!