Latest news with #EtiquetteExpert
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Daily Mail
I'm an etiquette expert and here are the mistakes you're making on holiday that make you look common and like a 'low class guest'
We all dream of the perfect holiday, sipping cocktails by the pool, effortlessly blending in with the locals, but your behaviour might be saying something else entirely. Jo Hayes, etiquette expert and founder of highlighted the common mistakes holiday makers make abroad that make them look 'classless' and 'common' and revealed how to avoid doing them. From playing phone audio out loud to inappropriate fashion choices and cultural faux pas, some holiday habits don't just turn heads- they scream tacky tourist. Speaking to the Daily Mail, she explained: 'Self-awareness, courtesy towards others and a decent level of humility, are three foundational pillars to living a life of substance and class. 'Falling short in any one of these three foundational character traits paves the way for behaviour that is not only potentially rude and disrespectful, but also makes one appear common and classless. 'Unfortunately, many people do drop the ball in one - or, perhaps, all - of these pillars, especially when on holiday, when they're perhaps in a more relaxed mode, feeling they 'deserve' to chill out and focus on themselves for a while. 'But, if you'd prefer to preserve your personal dignity, and avoid being highlighted as the 'low class guest', a few tips and advice as to what not to do when on holiday.' Obnoxiously loud conversations 'We get it. You're on holiday with your friends (or family), and you want to let your hair down and have enjoy yourself. Great. But, so does everyone else. And part of said enjoyment means not being exposed to obnoxiously loud chatter from fellow tourists/ holidaymakers. 'This applies to sun loungers by the pool in resorts, dining in restaurants, travelling on planes and public transport, waiting in queues at tourist attractions and all other places where one is in close proximity with other humans. 'Carrying on a loud conversation, so as to be easily heard by, and a distraction for, those around you demonstrates a distinct lack of self-awareness, disrespect for others, and general level of commonness. 'I can assure you, those around you aren't impressed by your verbosity or 'gift of the gab'. They'd rather enjoy their morning coffee and paper in quiet.' Disrespect to hotel/restaurant staff 'A well-mannered person treats everyone with respect- from a pauper to a Prime Minister. 'Clicking your fingers for the restaurant waitstaff, making demands, and failing to smile, say please and thank you doesn't come across as high-class. 'In fact, the opposite. It looks like you haven't been taught manners (and possibly haven't). Kindness, charity and respect, at all times, in all things.' Playing phone audio on loudspeaker 'I cringe speaking this aloud. I honestly cannot believe that a portion of the human population actually does this. 'In what world are you living, dear people? No one around you wants to hear your music, your phone conversation, your social media audio, or your general phone notification dings/pings/rings. 'Especially when they're on holiday and trying to unplug/switch off from technology. 'It's supremely disrespectful, discourteous and dare I say, supremely selfish. It sends a clear message to the world that one hasn't been taught the ins an outs of digital/phone etiquette. (And, again, a great level of self-awareness is at play here). 'Earbuds. This is what they're made for you. Your audio is for your ears and your ears only. 'This applies for humans of every age. Parents, if you have children with an ipad, they must, must, must have headphones. And, no, low volume doesn't cut it. 'Any level of loudspeaker audio is annoying for those around you. 'Phones on silent - those dings and pings are super-irritating for those around you, and send cortisol levels spiking for many people - including for the person making the noise. 'But, unfortunately, the lack of self-awareness means they're often not even plugged into what a cortisol spike feels like). Audio on headphones when around other people. Period.' Ignorance of local customs and traditions 'This is a big one, anywhere in the world, but especially for tourists travelling throughout Europe. 'Churches and other religious sites, demand a certain level of decency and decorum, out of respect of the sacredness of the site. 'Modest dress (covered shoulders, long skirts/pants, enclosed shoes), quiet conversation (or silence), and discrete behaviour (no running, no shoving, no photos/use of phones) demonstrates respect for the place you're visiting and the people who live/work there. 'The modest dress standards, and discrete/respectful behaviour also applies generally across many European towns and cities - not just in the Churches and religious sites. 'Nothing shouts 'low class tourist' more than someone who brazenly trots around these places in inappropriate clothing, cleavage showing, midriff, spaghetti strap tops, short shorts or miniskirts, snapping selfies, shooting a video for their TikTok reels in a place where they most definitely shouldn't. 'Also, caveat - these churches will likely turn you away if you try to enter with inappropriate attire. Appropriate clothing/modesty at all times 'Of course - churches and religious sites demand modest, respectful clothing. But immodest clothing in other places - cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, when lounging in or walking through the resort lobby or in resort corridors, is inappropriate and 'bogan'/ low class. 'Respect for oneself and others means covering up, and dressing for the occasion. 'Sure, a bathing suit with your towel around your waist is fine for the beach/pool. 'It's not okay for approaching the resort front desk, lounging in the lobby, or taking your seat at the restaurant for lunch. 'Cover up- a flowy dress, a long shirt, shorts, appropriate shoes (no flip flops outside the beach/pool area!).' Intoxication 'While some may be tempted by the open-bar Mimosas available from 8am at their all inclusive resort, I offer a stark word of warning. Don't. (Or, be very, very careful). 'I would personally suggest avoiding any alcohol before midday, as a general 'life rule'. 'But if/when you do decide to partake in an alcohol beverage - be it midday, 6pm cocktails, or a wine at dinner- go easy, moderation, and stay far, far away from 'drunk'. 'Do you really want to be seen as a booze-head? One wants to avoid, at all costs, being the guest who's stumbling through the lobby, talking/laughing too loudly (and disrupting other guests), and just generally being obnoxious.' Taking excessive photos/ videos 'Of course, you're on holiday, visiting amazing places, seeing cool things - all of which add up to many insta-worthy stories and reels. 'Good for you - take a few pics, shoot a few vids, but don't turn the resort's pool area into the set of 'Sally's Greece Adventure'. 'I can assure you, your fellow guests, and staff, won't be impressed. Too much personal preening, overdoing the pics, videos, 'presenting to cameras' comes across as rather vulgar and vain. 'No-one really cares if you're an 'influencer' with 50K followers - the other guests just want to enjoy their book, watch their children swim, and have a relaxing chat with their friends - without being subject to Sally doing ten takes of 'Day 3 of the Adventure' on the lounger next to them. Blasting loud music 'This is closely tied in with number three, but deserves a separate mention. 'Blasting music - on your phone, a speaker/amplifier - at a level that can be heard by others is not ok. 'It will quickly have you labelled 'guest from hell' - among hotel staff and fellow guests. 'Dear human, what planet are you on? Do you really think the families enjoying a relaxing morning on the pool deck want to listen to the latest release from your favourite artist? I can tell you, they don't. 'In Australia, we have a term for such behaviour: Bogan. It means 'common'. 'I'm astounded that anyone would think this is ok - and yet, it happens on a fairly regular basis, all around the world. 'This also applies to hotel rooms - ensure your music/TV/any audio is at a moderate level, and not able to be heard by those in rooms adjacent to yours. 'And for anyone subject to noisy guests nearby, don't hesitate to alert hotel staff to tell them to turn the music down/off.'
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Asking These 5 Questions Will Instantly Make You Sound Classy, According to an Etiquette Expert
Asking These 5 Questions Will Instantly Make You Sound Classy, According to an Etiquette Expert originally appeared on Parade. Social settings, for some of us, can cause us to overthink. Whether we tend to be stuck in a "fawn response" of people-pleasing (does it sound familiar to suddenly wonder if someone's subtle body language or quick comment means they're mad at you?) or we simply want to impress the group we're around, there can be self-inflicted pressure to "get it right" when it comes to conversing with you're about to attend a fancy work dinner with your partner, or you're thinking about joining a new social group. Whatever the occasion, you might be imagining how you want to come across, and the word that comes to mind is 'classy.'The good news is that it's actually not too hard. An etiquette expert helps us explore exactly what that word means and gives examples of questions you can ask that will instantly put you in the 'classy' category. Get ready to be inspired for your next dinner party or casual outing!Related: 10 Things Classy Women Never, Ever Do in Public, According to an Etiquette Expert What Makes a Person Sound Classy? If you look up synonyms of the word 'classy,' you'll find words like 'elegant,' 'sophisticated,' and 'stylish,' which elicit pictures of clothes (at least for me). But how do you apply that definition to conversations? Here's how an etiquette expert would describe it.'I believe being classy is being a warm, welcoming person while honoring your own boundaries, and being authentic without being inappropriately overly intimate with others,' says Jenny Dreizen, co-founder and COO of Fresh Starts Registry, author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People, and a professional boundaries and etiquette expert. 'This means being active in conversation, inquisitive, nonjudgmental and curious.'Generally speaking, that might look like asking people about themselves. But what are some specific examples?Related: 14 Phrases That Make You Sound 'Instantly Uptight,' According to Etiquette Experts 5 Questions That Make You Sound Classy, According to an Etiquette Expert To make being classy easier, Dreizen shares some go-to questions that hit the mark. 1. 'I'd love for you to tell me more about that.' Dreizen speaks to how this question engages a person deeper, shows your interest in them and their interests, and makes them feel welcomed with your someone shows genuine interest in what you have to say and what you like, you can't help but feel special and important, right? No wonder this question is so 2. 'What's been exciting you recently?' This question is another way to show curiosity and interest in a person, Dreizen says, which helps establish a relationship of reciprocal interest. It's a positive conversation starter, and it doesn't necessarily have to do with the typical go-to (AKA work). 3. 'What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?' 'This allows someone to tell you about their history while also getting further insight into how their mind works,' Dreizen explains. 'It will open up so many avenues of connection too!' For example, you might connect over something meaningful you learned from your grandma or core values you 7 Phrases That Instantly Make You Sound Classy, According to Etiquette Experts 4. 'How are you taking care of yourself right now?' By asking a question like this, Dreizen says, you learn about how someone recovers and what their world looks like right now. 'It shows genuine care and curiosity,' she can also be helpful in the future if you want to further the friendship. For example, if they say they like to go on walks, you could ask them to go on a walk with you sometime. Or, if they don't like to cook when they're stressed, you could bring them a meal before a major presentation at 'I've Been an Etiquette Expert for 13 Years—Here's the #1 Phrase to End Small Talk Without Making It Awkward' 5. 'What movie do you think fundamentally changed your brain chemistry?' This question also allows you to get to know someone and their worldview, and it's just plain fun. 'It tells you a lot about their taste, past and who they are today,' Dreizen says. 'It shows a genuine curiosity about them.' And who knows, maybe by asking, you'll learn a life lesson (or find a new comfort movie) in the process. At the end of the day, remember this: Being classy isn't about being exclusive, and it's important to remain true to yourself. To find the right mix, consider asking these inviting questions in your own unique way. Up Next:Source: Jenny Dreizen, co-founder and COO of Fresh Starts Registry, author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People, and a professional boundaries and etiquette expert Asking These 5 Questions Will Instantly Make You Sound Classy, According to an Etiquette Expert first appeared on Parade on Aug 13, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
News.com.au
08-08-2025
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
‘Yuck': Couple's gross beach act horrifies Aussies
A man's baffling beachside act has divided Aussies, after a video of him seemingly popping a woman's pimples right by the surf went viral. Shared by the Instagram account, Lords of Byron, the video shows a scene many beachgoers wish they'd never witnessed. An activewear-clad woman lay face down on a towel while her male companion leant over her in what the post cheekily described as 'beachfront extractions between the flags'. 'Introducing 'Pop & Purge', the chakra aligned skin cleanse you didn't ask for,' the caption joked. 'No booking needed. Just bring your trauma and a towel.' The clip horrified onlookers, with one person summing it up, saying: 'Yuuuuck' in the comments. 'Nothing like a bit of nature and a bit of emotional exfoliation to reset the system,' another quipped. So, is it ever okay to perform personal grooming of this nature in public? According to etiquette expert, Jo Hayes, who had a nuanced take on the matter, potentially. But it depends on a few key factors. In her professional view, Ms Hayes made a distinction: 'Firstly, I actually think this guy is squeezing blackheads, not popping pimples. And there is a big difference. Popping pimples is gross. It usually involves pus, sometimes even blood, which is, again, gross … Dermatologists regularly discourage popping pimples. 'But squeezing blackheads is a different story,' the founder of explained. 'Blackheads are simply dirt in pores. And, when the dirt is close to the surface, a small squeeze … and, POP, it's out. Usually, no pus or blood involved.' As for the etiquette of such behaviour, she pointed out that it wouldn't be appropriate in many settings, but in this situation, it 'might veer on the okay side'. 'This is the beach, after all. Not a cafe, not a restaurant, not a shopping mall. There are far grosser things that many people do at the beach (peeing in the water, being #1),' she noted. 'Other things that would not be appropriate include clipping toenails (eww, gross). But on the scale of 'inappropriate things people do at the beach', this rates fairly low.'
Yahoo
05-08-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
7 Nonverbal Cues That Instantly Make You Seem Classy
7 Nonverbal Cues That Instantly Make You Seem Classy originally appeared on Parade. The Internet is full of scripts to help you with different scenarios you might run into. For example, there are tips on how to sound like a gentle parent and set firm boundaries with a toxic relative, or check in with a friend without overstepping. What we say makes a big impact. That being said, while words matter, sometimes, you say a lot without saying anything at all thanks to our body language."Nonverbal cues are all the things our body is doing without ever having to make a peep," says Jenny Dreizen, an etiquette expert, co-founder and COO of Fresh Starts Registry and author of Simple Scripts to Support Your explains that arm tension, the angle of your head and even the way your cheek muscles look can tell a story about you."More often than not, [nonverbal communication] cannot lie," she says. "[These] are the introduction your body makes before your mouth has even opened to say hello. Your posture, gestures and facial expressions send a message about who you are, what you value and how you carry yourself in the world."Want to come off as chic and sophisticated? They say you can't teach class, but Dreizen is proving otherwise, offering seven nonverbal cues that make you seem instantly 7 Classy Nonverbal Cues, According to an Etiquette Expert 1. Soft, steady eye contact The eyes are a window to your soul—and mind and character. If you want to make a classy first impression, Dreizen suggests focusing on your gaze."Maintaining soft but steady eye contact lets people know you are actively engaged in conversation with them," she says. "They will feel seen and heard and not like you are more interested in that conversation over there." 2. Confident posture Don't get it twisted—confidence is classy, not a turn-off. Your body lingo can radiate a confident-meets-inclusive vibe."Keeping your shoulders back and relaxed, head up and back in a comfortable straight position will make you appear warm, confident and welcoming," Dreizen 3. Easy expression Classy people are like the human equivalent of summer breezes."Try to remember your goal is for people to feel at ease around you," Dreizen states. "Relax your mouth, observe the world and try to let the tension drop from your eyes. You want to look pleasant without having to plaster on a smile." 4. Intentional, confident walking Exude class from the moment you walk into a room by walking with quiet confidence and intention."The way you move your body through a space says a lot about you," Dreizen says. "Dragging your feet, slouching or stomping indicates to others that something is off. Instead, try moving slowly, with intention and confidence."Related: 5. Fight distraction Stay connected to the people you're actually with. Ironically, this cue involves a bit of disconnecting from your devices."Making others feel warm and welcome means focusing on them when you are together," Dreizen explains. "Do not check your phone constantly. Do not sit scrolling."Sometimes, you may need to be plugged into your phone, such as if you're waiting for a loved one to come out of surgery. That's OK."If you need to check your phone, mention you need to check it, check it and then put it away," she says. "Being involved in your phone when in community with others can indicate to them you are bored or uninterested." 6. Breathing We do it without thinking. However, Dreizen says intentional breathing is a nonverbal cue that can ensure you come off as instantly classy. Why? Because it'll help prevent you from verbalizing something that makes you sound rude or mean."Before responding, it is OK to take a beat and a breath," she emphasizes. "You aren't on a timer or a sitcom."Use that time to script a less reactionary, more tactful response that displays pure 7. Comfort with stillness and silence Maybe after taking that breath, you decide to stay still and silent. That's so classy. In fact, you can even embrace a prolonged pause in moments when things are calm."Part of being an inviting person is learning to get comfortable in the quiet moments, both alone and with others," Dreizen points out. "Do not feel like you have to fill every quiet beat— it can be an overwhelming experience for both yourself and others."Related: The No. 1 Thing To Avoid if You Want To Look Classy Dreizen says it's crucial to focus on what your face may be telling the other person."You might not realize you're rolling your eyes or making a smirk, but your companions do, even if they don't consciously realize it," she explains. "Be mindful of your inner thoughts leaking straight through to your face." That doesn't mean you have to lie or go heavy on toxic positivity."While we want to be authentic with others, we also have to be mindful of processing our own judgements in our own mind rather than spewing them all around the conversation," Dreizen includes the judgments you communicate without words through expressions and other forms of body language. Up Next:Source: Jenny Dreizen, an etiquette expert, co-founder and COO of Fresh Starts Registry and author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People 7 Nonverbal Cues That Instantly Make You Seem Classy first appeared on Parade on Aug 4, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Aug 4, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
6 Unspoken Trader Joe's Rules Every Shopper Should Follow, According to Etiquette Experts
Follow these simple guidelines to keep grocery shopping frustration-free. Whether you're dashing in for Everything but the Bagel seasoning or strolling the aisles for your weekly grocery trip, shopping at Trader Joe's can be an experience. Known for its quirky charm, friendly cashiers, and fan-favorite products, it's easy to get swept up in the fun. But even at a laid-back store like TJ's, good manners matter. We chatted with Jo Hayes, etiquette expert and founder of for tips on being a courteous customer. Whether you're sampling a snack or navigating a packed parking lot, here's how to shop Trader Joe's with civility. Related: 4 Shopping Mistakes You're Making at ALDI, According to Etiquette Experts 1. Know Your Sample Limits TJ's is famous for its free samples, and according to Hayes, it's totally fine to accept one, especially if you're feeling a bit peckish. But know your limits. 'If you like the new corn chips on offer and are hungry from skipping lunch, going back for 10 free samples is not the right thing,' Hayes says. A sample is just a sample. Taking too many is poor etiquette and inconsiderate to other shoppers. And if you're not interested, a simple 'no thanks' and polite smile does the trick. 2. Don't Feel Pressured to Chat at Checkout One of Trader Joe's signature traits is its famously friendly staff. But if you're just not in the mood to make conversation, here's what Hayes says. 'Some people love chatting with a chatty cashier; others don't,' Hayes says. 'One can still be polite and civil without engaging in small talk.' Greet the cashier with a quick hello, but feel free to keep your answers short and avoid eye contact if you're trying to signal that you're in a rush. 3. Return Items the Right Way Trader Joe's has a generous return policy, even on opened food. But there's a right way to handle it. Deliver your message with politeness and clarity to ensure a smooth interaction for everyone involved. 'Kind, calm, clear is the MO,' Hayes advises. 4. Be a Parking Lot Pro If you've ever pulled into a Trader Joe's lot and immediately regretted it, you're not alone. Many locations are notorious for tight spaces and traffic jams. Hayes has one firm rule: slow down. 'Fifteen miles per hour is usually the signed limit, but many motorists go well above this. This is dangerous for all concerned,' she says. Keep your phone down, use your blinkers, wave when someone lets you go first, and don't swoop in to steal a spot someone else was clearly waiting for. If you're on foot, return your cart to the proper corral and stay aware of your surroundings. 5. Don't Hoard the Viral Items Trader Joe's launches limited-edition items all the time, but they tend to sell out quickly. If you're lucky enough to spot a restock, pause before grabbing six jars of the latest cookie butter creation. 'Moderation, restraint, and consideration for others is the MO here,' Hayes says. 6. Mind Your Bags If the cashier leaves you to bag your groceries, don't let your system slow down the entire checkout lane. 'If you've only got a few things, bag them quickly. If you've got a large haul, load it into your cart and bag it outside,' Hayes says. It's an easy way to keep the line moving and keep fellow shoppers happy. And at the end of the day, a good Trader Joe's trip is not just about grabbing your necessities. To make the experience enjoyable for yourself and others, be aware of your surroundings and considerate of the people around you. Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens Solve the daily Crossword
