Etiquestions

When attending a function where you were invited as a guest, what is the protocol for selecting your seats at the table? We have been asked to several galas and big events where there are about 8 of us at the table. I really never know where to sit, and we often arrive first. I always want to sit where I can see the speaker, but since I am a guest, I am never sure that it is ok. What are your thoughts?

This is a great question, and I am so glad you asked. If you are the guest, you should not take the “best” seats at the table unless the Host has told you to. If you arrive first, it is better to wait to be seated until the Host has arrived. It is always good to ask the Host where they would like you to sit. Do not assume that you can sit anywhere because many times the Host has invited people to attend for different reasons, and there may be some thought to seating as well. Be patient and wait for guidance from the Host. In the meantime, mingle around and network with other people in attendance.

When I am eating lunch or dinner at any of our amazing local restaurants, I am always surprised at how rude people are to the waitstaff. I find it rude for someone to snap their fingers at the waiter to get his attention. Is it just me?

I agree that we do have so many amazing local restaurants! When visiting our local eateries, it is always good to keep in mind that the wait staff are trained to serve you. They should be keeping an eye on your table and your needs. However, our local restaurants are getting busier and busier. Some of our waiters are trying to serve several tables at one time. Have some patience. Be kind. Always try to make eye contact with the waiter when you need something. Never snap, wave, or yell It is very rude!

Summer time is such a busy time for my family. From vacations to sleepovers, my family has lots to do. When traveling by plane, what are some of the top tips for me to keep in mind and remind my children about? We want to make sure that we are respectful of others, but sometimes it is hard to know what offends others and what does not.

Travel in the Summer is always such an adventure. When traveling by plane, there are some key tips to keep in mind. First, always be polite to the employees in the airport and on the plane. They have a hard job to do, and we should be kind and respectful. Second, keep in mind that other people on the plane may or may not want to engage in conversation with you. Pay attention to body language. One key sign that someone does not want to talk is when they put their earphones on. That is usually the sign not to bother them. A third tip to keep in mind is your volume. Use your earphones when watching movies and make sure you are not talking too loudly. A peaceful plane trip is good for everyone! Safe travels.

Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa, Ph.D. is a wife, mother, and educator living in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. She is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University with a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. In addition, she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Education from McLennan Community College, Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American, and a Master of Arts in Educational Supervision from the University of Texas – Pan American. Dr. Baggerly-Hinojosa’s current research is focused on servant leadership, gender issues in leadership, and leadership communication. www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com