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What is Your Etiquette Quotient?

What is Your EQ? (Etiquette Quotient)

 

0 = Never; 1 = Rarely; 2 = Every now and then; 3 = Sometimes; 4 = Pretty much of the time; 5 = Always

 

1

I turn off the ringer to my cell phone when I am in a meeting.

 

2

I avoid answering cell phone calls when I am talking with someone else

 

3

I avoid making cell phone calls from a table in a restaurant, even when I am eating alone.

 

4

I avoid putting my cell phone on the table (meeting, restaurant, etc)

 

5

I find a private, quiet place to make and take cell phone calls.

 

6

I start my emails with a salutation or the name of the recipient somewhere in the first sentence.

 

7

I use an “auto-signature” on my email that identifies all of my pertinent contact information.

 

8

I copy ONLY those people who REALLY need to read the email.

 

9

I “clean up” emails before forwarding them, so that future readers don’t have to read anything unnecessary.

 

10

I use upper and lower case in my email correspondence.

 

11

I personally sign all of my written correspondence.

 

12

My voice mail messages leave a clear description of how to contact me or my assistant.

 

13

I leave detailed messages on others’ voice mail, including my name, phone number, time of day, information or request, and the best time to reach me.

 

14

I stand and extend my hand for a firm handshake every time I meet someone in a business situation.

 

15

I arrive at meetings early or on time, and well prepared.

 

16

I place my nametag on my right side, when possible, so that people can easily see it when shaking my hand.

 

17

I wait to start eating until the host or hostess raises his or her fork.

 

18

When dining, I avoid putting my elbow or arm on the table, and keep my unused hand/arm on my lap.

 

19

If I need to leave the table during the meal, I put my napkin on my seat, and say “excuse me.” (no other explanation needed)

 

20

I pace my eating so that I don’t finish eating ahead of the group.

 

 

Total

 

                                                                                                               

 

90-100: Etiquette buff!

80-89:    Emily Post would be proud.

70-79:    You’re doing well, just a bit of fine-tuning.

60-69:    Could add a few etiquette tricks to your bag.

50-59:    We’re glad you’re working on this!

0-50:     We’re really glad you’re working on this!

Copyright, 2008, Marsha Egan

The Egan Group, Inc

marsha@marshaegan.com