EVERY society is intrinsically different which makes etiquette differ from culture to culture and country to country. For example, in countries such as Nigeria or Japan, deference is of utmost importance. People take their positions seriously and will notice if you do not give them the sufficient amount of respect or attention they believe they deserve. Suffice it to say, if one is not aware of this principle, a lot of mistakes will be made. More so, if no one cares to bring your attention to it, you will keep making the same mistake without the opportunity to redeem yourself. To sum it up, with the best of intentions, it is still very important to know and understand the expectations of your environment and try to meet those expectations as best as you can. In so doing, you will have a greater opportunity of making a long-lasting mark with the people you come in contact with.In this article we would be treating three vital etiquette lessons that will serve you well in the Nigeria corporate and social environment. Here, we would look at why they are important as best as we can because if you understand the principle behind the lessons you will be able to act with poise in whatever related situation you find yourself.Lesson One: Greetings and IntroductionsGreetings and introduction are as important as people say it is in Nigeria, albeit, in certain ethnic groups it is taken more seriously than others. People take themselves very seriously in Nigeria and will easily take offence when someone else doesn't. Besides that, and perhaps more importantly, deference and respect are fundamental principles in Nigerian cultures. Blatant disregard for greetings and introductions will be perceived as a mark of rebellion and haughtiness. Getting your greetings and introductions right will put you in good stead.In this present time and in Nigeria especially, image, status and authority go hand in hand. It is of necessity that one understands the implications that go with Image, Status and Authority ' not just concerning our relationship with others but for our own personal development. (We will treat more on this topic in another article).Lesson Two: First ImpressionsYou never ever have a second chance to make a good first impression. First impressions serve as the bench mark in measuring all other impressions; so it would be very difficult to convince someone that the mistakes you made when you first met isn't the real you. People make quick judgments about a whole lot of aspects of our character and attitude in the first few seconds of meeting. People feel that it is important that they make those judgments because they need to fit you into a box as quickly as they possibly can. This helps people to know the best way to respond to others.As biased as this is, it is a fact of life. With that in mind you should pay careful attention with the way you project yourself so as to make the best possible impression.Lesson Three: Personal Grooming and Dress SenseIf you do not already know, looking good is society's way of measuring success. The rational is that if you are most probably as successful as you look. Seldom will one find an opinion that differs! On one hand, there is the general reasoning that if you can splurge on external attachments then you have not only fed yourself full but you have also saved for a rainy day. On the other hand, most people will shop for the latest fashion as soon as they get a little money in their account regardless of what else suffers. With these two conceptions it is easier to understand the dynamics of image and influence. While I will not advice you to break the bank on material extremities, it is important that you look your best within your budget ' more for self respect than to please anyone. It is a myth that the best things are very expensive; exorbitant items are expensive, however, what you need to look dignified and influential is affordable and within reach.'To be continued next week'Image and Etiquette addresses general perceptions, societal norms and expectations and personal expressions with the goal to cultivate social graces, suavity and a dignified presence for interpersonal relationships. If you have questions on Image and Etiquette please send them to askpamela@regalgraces.com or SMS 08038240870. Pamela also covers Online Correspondence Courses, Workshops and Keynote speeches on Corporate Image and Etiquette, and manages Perfect Healthlife Wellness Center. For online correspondence courses email info@regalgraces.com with the title 'Online Course (Saturday Guardian)' for our promotional price.08167089656 (SMS only).E-mail:regalgraces@yahoo.com
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