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

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

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