Remember the term “etiquette”? The word your mother used to reprimand you for forgetting? Well, guys, it’s back in business. Literally.
“Etiquette Julie” or Julie Blais Comeau, has been instructing people on etiquette and its significance for about four years. A former HR manager, she has managed to make a name for herself amongst business big-wigs, as well as students. Her professional workshops and lectures have helped individuals achieve their goals and gain success.
R: I have to ask this right away. Why etiquette? It’s not exactly heard of in an everyday sense, so, you’ve brought it back. Why is it so important?
J: Based upon personal experiences, I can tell you that etiquette, confidence and credibility go hand in hand. When I was younger, I was somewhat of a “leftie gauche girl”. I was awkward and was always getting noticed for doing the wrong things rather than the right ones. If someone had taught me to conduct myself better, then I could have avoided all that and been more confident.
R: What led to a career in etiquette?
J: Referring to my experiences, I realized that people always have issues in conducting themselves properly in different situations. A few years ago, I had a burnout and was involved in a car accident. The combination of these two events made me realize what I really wanted to do was to help people. I wanted to give back, and since I had always dreamed of teaching and empowering people, discussing something close to home seemed like the best way to do this.
R: How has it helped your clients in their professional ventures?
J: I always tell my clients that they need to dress for the type of job they want. My tips have also helped my clients in their networking skills. I’ve noticed that their interpersonal skills have also helped them to achieve professional success. Through my workshops, interactive conferences and even one-on-one Skype sessions, I’ve really helped a lot of people and that makes me proud.
R: What are some tips on conducting yourself well?
J: My grandmother would always tell me, ‘when in doubt, find out’. That’s the best advice I’ve ever gotten and that’s the basis for my workshops.
Do your research and always be prepared. Just like if you were to study for a big test or do a big project, you’d need to be prepared. So, knowing proper etiquette skills as well as conducting yourself well holds just as much merit as studying.
R: Why is etiquette so important for the workplace?
J: It helps in many areas. Your presentation skills will improve and it helps you adapt to situations as well as earn you a really great first impression. First impressions are everything, so if you make an excellent one it will make you stand out from the crowd. It will also prevent you from making a fool out of yourself and will empower you to become an ambassador to your company.
Becoming well-rounded people through proper appearances is just as important to one’s character as ever. As you grow older, it becomes more and more essential for one to achieve professional success. And since manners and etiquette are never out of style, why not incorporate some of these tips in your everyday lives?
And if you do, we’d love to hear all about it!
If you would like to find out more information, please visit her website at: http://www.etiquettejulie.com/
Don’t forget to check out her book “Etiquette, Confidence and Credibility”! Register to attend the free “Book & Bubbles” Networking Party in celebration of the book launch taking place at the Marriott on Thursday, January 30th.