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A new collection of advice from miss Manners addresses modern etiquette dilemmas, ranging from social media privacy to professional communication.
In an increasingly connected world, maintaining personal boundaries and navigating social interactions requires careful consideration. Recent guidance from etiquette expert Miss Manners tackles a range of contemporary concerns, offering practical solutions for everything from unwanted social media posts to challenging workplace dynamics.
The Right to privacy in the Digital Age
One reader expressed frustration with the common practice of friends posting group photos on platforms like Facebook without consent. The individual, who prefers not to participate in social media, finds themselves awkwardly backing out of photos to avoid online exposure. “I get looks like I’m from another planet,” they lamented.
Miss Manners’ response is direct: the friends are being rude. While acknowledging that a legal expectation of permission before photographing someone doesn’t exist in the United States, she points to Dubai as an example of a place where such consent is required. “Good manners woudl dictate the same in our country,” she states, “but since it is not punishable by law, no one adheres to it.” the advice? Ignore the disapproving glances and politely request the removal of any unauthorized photos.
Another reader faced a different kind of social dilemma: a bartender repeatedly offering free alcohol shots despite knowing the patron doesn’t drink. While appreciative of the bartender’s kindness, the reader sought a way to politely decline the unwanted generosity.
Miss Manners’ solution is straightforward: “Kindly ask her not to?” She suggests offering an alternative – a shot of juice, for example – while firmly reinforcing the preference for non-alcoholic beverages. A playful warning against accepting anything “except, Miss Manners warns, the contents of the bar mat” adds a touch of levity to the situation.
Mastering Workplace Communication: Interruptions and Efficiency
The final query addresses a common workplace challenge: managing disruptive colleagues and rushed meetings. A reader described struggling to curb a habit of interrupting others, notably when faced with long-winded speakers or overly concise meeting leaders.
The advice offered a two-pronged approach. For those prone to rambling, Miss manners suggests preemptively asking if there will be time for questions afterward. For meetings moving too quickly, she acknowledges that interrupting to request clarification is sometimes necessary, but also proposes a potentially effective alternative: scheduling a follow-up meeting.”While inconvenient,” she notes, “it has the ad
From Thin Update to Substantive News report
Why: This article reports on advice from Miss Manners addressing contemporary etiquette issues.
Who: Miss Manners, readers submitting questions, and individuals navigating social and professional situations.
What: Miss Manners provides guidance on handling issues like unwanted social media posts, unwanted gifts, and workplace interruptions.
How did it end?: The article concludes with advice on managing rushed meetings, suggesting follow-up meetings as a solution. The overall message emphasizes the importance of clear communication and respectful boundaries.
