Oh No You Didn’t! A Short Guide to Manners in the 21st Century

Agenda Back to Basics Conversation Skills Body Language

Back to Basics

In class, raise your hand to be called on Share with others Follow the class rules Take turns Be polite –Say “please,” “thank you,” and “you’re welcome”

Conversation Skills

Speech is an important form of communication Every time you open your mouth, you reveal something about yourself to someone else –not just in what you say, but how you say it –speak clearly and sincerely Make yourself heard without shouting, interrupting or talking over others

Conversation T-Chart Draw a t-chart on the board Label the left column “Don’ts” Label the right column “Do’s” List actions you do NOT want to do during a conversation in the left “Don’ts” column List actions you DO want to do during a conversation in the right “Do” column

Conversation Don’ts Don't fidget, look elsewhere, wander off, or text while someone else is talking Don't listen in on conversations you aren't part of Don't interrupt when someone else is talking Don’t walk in between people who are talking Don't whisper in front of another person

Conversation Don’ts Don't whine, tattletale, brag, or say mean things about others Don't ask inappropriate personal questions such as how much things cost or why someone looks or dresses the way they do Don't point or stare Don't argue about things that aren't important

Conversation Do’s Look at the person or people you are talking to If you haven't met before, introduce yourself and ask their name Use a person's name when talking to them Ask questions when you don't understand something Stick to the subject Say nice things about people and praise those who deserve it It's fine to disagree, but disagree politely

Polite Phrases “Thank you” “Please” “May I” –instead of “Can I” “Excuse me” “I’m sorry”

Secrets Respecting other people means you also respect their wishes If someone tells you something in confidence, you should not repeat it If you don’t feel comfortable keeping secrets, tell the person before they share their secret

Body Language

Positive Body Language Standing or sitting up straight Appearing confident Looking people in the eye Having a smile or pleasant expression

Body Language to Avoid Scowling Crossing your arms Slouching Staring off into the distance Yawning

Appearance Neat + Clean = Effort Nice + Clean = Expensive Dress appropriately for the occasion

Borrowing When you borrow or use an item, be sure to return it to the same place and in equal to or better condition –Examples: computers, office supplies, and sports equipment