Etiquette Quick Tips
Halloween
Avoid costume guessing
“Tell me about your costume” is kinder than making a guess that might insult someone—or discovering they aren’t wearing one.
Let trick-or-treaters participate in their own way
A child who doesn’t say, “trick or treat,” wear a costume or make eye contact may have needs you can’t see. Offer a warm welcome without requiring a performance for a piece of candy.
Enjoy additional Halloween tips in this Clise Etiquette guest post.
Party Hosts
Send invitations early
Because the holidays are filled with parties and other gatherings, send your invitation at least four weeks in advance for a better chance guests can attend.
Make the appetizers manageable
At a standing reception, serve food guests can eat with one hand. A knife-and-fork appetizer becomes a juggling act.
Learn other hosting tips in this post.
Party Guests
An invitation isn’t transferable
If you can’t attend, don’t offer your spot to someone else unless the host invites you to.
Ask before posting party photos.
A photo can reveal someone’s location, their home or a gathering others weren’t invited to.
Workplace Tips
Ask before adding someone to a gift exchange
Even a modest spending limit can strain a budget. Make participation an invitation, with an easy way to decline.
Keep gift collections pressure-free
When collecting for a colleague or community member, avoid public contribution lists or repeated requests directed at people who haven’t donated.
Read more etiquette tips and information in Arden's book, Spinach in Your Boss's Teeth: Essential Etiquette for Professional Success.
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