A real gentleman has mastered the art of etiquette under any circumstances and always shows impeccable manners. Whether in a restaurant or hotel, at the bar or in a shop: if you deem something incorrect, claim your rights – as long as you do it politely. Complaints should always be made immediately. A service provider will usually do everything to meet your wishes – if the complaint is justified and you are not to blame for the mishap.

Complaints in a restaurant are a high priority matter

If you are served the wrong dish, or if it is overcooked or inedible, you need not accept it without a word of protest. The host is usually the one to make the complaint, as it is also in his interest that his guests are served correctly. Should you have trouble enjoying a certain taste in a specialty restaurant, you should enquire with the waiter immediately. Perhaps it is a special spice mixture or exclusive way of preparation. Either way – always stay relaxed.

Beware of stumbling blocks

Irrespective of whether in everyday business or private life – try not to put your foot in it with regard to style. Loud, aggressive, cynical, or rude behavior will certainly not be as successful as an objective and calm explanation of the situation. This approach should be applied everywhere – in the shop and in the restaurant. Instead of making abusive or derogative remarks such as “this burnt steak should be pig fodder, I won’t pay for it!” rather say, “I ordered this and you have served me that. Please take it back and sort it out with the kitchen, thank you!” You will be surprised how favorably this will be received.

Inhale, exhale

Only serenity creates success. So don’t get upset, because to err is human. Simply keep a cool head and make your point directly, objectively, decently, and with certainty, always accompanied by a well-meaning facial expression and a friendly smile. This will ensure that the trained service staff makes contact with the kitchen quickly and helpfully to solve the problem in your favor. And should you ever be at a loss: simply stay relaxed and let your common sense guide you.

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A real gentleman has mastered the art of etiquette under any circumstances and always shows impeccable manners. Having to listen to a telephone conversation at close quarters is an imposition for many uninvolved parties. That is why it is better to mute your calls when visiting a customer, during a conference, an interview, or a business meeting; but also privately in resting zones, public buildings and public transport. If you are expecting an important call – set the vibration alarm, accept the call and go outside if possible – and make a short apology when you return. Internal company matters, confidential and private information should not be exchanged via cell phone.

Blessing or nuisance

No question about it: these days, modern life without cell phones as a means of communication is unthinkable. Used correctly, they are ingenious guarantors for mobility and availability. However, if resting, concentration, privacy, or relaxation periods are continuously disrupted with bizarre ring tones, the fun stops. It is important to communicate as clearly as necessary and as quietly as possible. And keep it short. When making a call, ask the recipient whether he can speak freely. And you can of course simply switch off your cell phone or mute it with a vibration alarm.

Beware of stumbling blocks

Irrespective of whether in everyday business or private life – try not to put your foot in it with regard to style. Cell phone free zones must be respected: civil registry offices, churches, cemeteries, the opera, concerts, movie theatres, exhibitions, lectures, speeches, seminars, doctors’ waiting rooms, restaurants (cell phone on the table = faux pas). Also observe all security areas such as airplanes, hospitals and gas stations. Should your cell phone ring at an inopportune moment, do not accept the call and switch off your phone. Decorum calls for a return call and an apology (at the next opportunity).

Tolerance and sensitivity

Tactfulness when handling cell phones is part of modern etiquette. Most people feel irritated, harassed and bothered, especially on public transport, when they unintentionally have to listen to loud telephone conversations. At social occasions, the cell phone should only be used in case of emergency, as otherwise no decent conversations can take place at parties, cocktail parties and during aperitifs. And should you ever be at a loss: simply allow serenity and your common sense to guide you and thoroughly enjoy the nice call or the peace and quiet.

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A real gentleman has mastered the art of etiquette under any circumstances and always shows impeccable manners. It all starts with a successful first impression for which you will not have a second chance. Especially in business, it is always the entire appearance of the other person that is perceived and assessed. Therefore, you should pay attention to your posture, facial expression, gestures, voice, and language, as well as well cared-for hair, hands and teeth. Wellbeing means surety. Healthy self-confidence is just as beneficial as goal-oriented, positive charisma. The most important thing, however, is your authenticity: always stay true to yourself – your personal style reflects your profile.

Smile and show enthusiasm

A happy smile opens hearts and doors. Your heart-felt enthusiasm for people, issues, and projects makes you a lovable human being. This is what you radiate, even without talking. Tactfully display as much justifiable interest in a discussion as you can. Your whole appearance should be a harmonious whole reflecting your personality.

Beware of stumbling blocks

Irrespective of whether in everyday business or private life – try not to put your foot in it with regard to style. Never point at people with an outstretched finger or permanently stare at, bad-mouth or obviously whisper about others in restaurants. Do not interrupt your counterpart – rather distinguish yourself as an attentive listener. Always be honest and direct. Every masquerade is unveiled sooner or later.

Make sure to maintain eye contact

Your environment perceives practically everything, be it verbal or nonverbal. If possible, maintain eye contact with your counterpart – this makes you likeable. Most of your body postures reveal a lot about your personality. It is important that both of your feet remain firmly and securely planted on the ground. This reveals your stability, both in life and with regard to an opinion. Never stay on the edge of an event but happily dive right in. And should you ever be at a loss: simply take a good look around and let your common sense guide you.

What is important for you when you meet somebody for the first time?

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A real gentleman has mastered the art of etiquette under any circumstances and always shows impeccable manners. Dress codes are a science in their own right. They range from casual to casually formal to formal, and from very formal to highly official and highly festive. Not to forget are special cases like traditional dress and uniforms. It is important that your clothing always fits the event, the circumstances, your age, and your physique. Contrasts (black-white) generally seem more professional than combinations of the same color. Effective esteem: adhere to dress codes at all times.

The most important dress codes

Leisure time: single-breasted jacket, shirt/polo shirt, no tie, calf socks
Business meetings: classic single/double-breasted suit, single-colored shirt, silk tie, knee socks
Official business meeting: dark single/double-breasted suit, white shirt, silk tie, knee socks
Evening gala: black tuxedo, silk bow-tie, cummerbund, white tuxedo shirtBall/reception/white tie: black single-breasted tail-coat, white tuxedo shirt, white hand-tied silk bow-tie

Beware of stumbling blocks

Irrespective of whether in everyday business or private life – try not to put your foot in it with regard to style. Ties with cartoon characters, childish batik patterns or over-dimensional company logos have no place in the business world. Clothing should not be too tight, too loose, or too old-fashioned. Visibly naked calves, white or patterned socks, brown shoes with a black suit, or suspenders with evening wear are also taboo.

First impressions are decisive

Score from the get-go! Make sure that packaging and contents appear identical. In addition to perfect head-to-toe hygiene, you should keep an eye on the following key aspects: the length of your jacket covers your derriere; your tie touches your belt buckle; trouser pockets should only contain whatever is absolutely necessary; shoes, belt and socks form a single-colored unit; double-breasted jackets are open when seated and closed when standing, and single-colored shirts are ideally combined. And should you ever be at a loss, simply let your good taste and common sense guide you.
How do you dress?

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