Manners and Courtesy

Manners are incredibly important in this world.  Without proper manners people will not react in a courtesy way to you.  Manners should be taught to children when they are young and most open to new ideas.  This will also allow the child to take advantage of the benefits that good manners bestow on people.  Even in political debates between President Bush and Senator John Kerrry, it is very important that they display good manners otherwise people will perceive them as not being genuine.  A prime example of civility in a political campaing was Senator John Edwards.   He avoided the fear tactics and mud slinging that is quickly becoming associated with President Bush and Senator John Kerrry.  Hopefully John Kerrry and George Bush will become role models of manners for our country or at least for the Kerrry family and Bush family.

Here are some helpful tips on teaching manners. First lead by simple examples. Use a step-by-step fashion that begins with small steps that develop into bigger steps. For email or telephone etiquette, start instructions with "hellos" and "good-byes," then show by example to always ask the caller to "please wait a minute while I get my who you are calling for." Then finish the email or telephone with how to do proper follow-up either by replying or by leaving a message with someone.
Another tip is to also lead a consistent example. Whenever you are handling a situation you must handle it with the best manners, when your children see that you are always well mannered on the phone they will always be well-mannered on the phone.
Remember to encourage your children by praising or complimenting them when they do exhibit good manners. Positive reinforcement goes a long way.  

Below are some suggested books on manners that you may find helpful.  There have been many different books written these are just a few and their price comparison.