Exclusive interview with Vicky Karam etiquette and protocol consultant and the founder of Etiquette Touch, she was hosted on many TV shows. She introduce us to international etiquette and gives teens the best advice.

1. Tell us more about yourself as a protocol consultant?
Being an etiquette and protocol consultant is not an easy job as people always look up to me any moment of the day. However, my job also allows me to meet with many diplomatic figures and their families which always enriches my cultural knowledge.




2. Why did you choose etiquette as your major?


I have always been passionate and curious about etiquette and protocol. I decided to study etiquette when I was doing my Masters in luxury management in Italy. Having classmates from all around the world I realized that every culture is special and would love to know about them and know how to behave and deal with people from all over the world. That is how I chose etiquette as my major.

 

3. You're the founder of Etiquette Touch, please share with us some information about your foundation.


Etiquette Touch was founded in 2013 and it is the first and only franchised & certified "International Etiquette & Diplomatic Protocol" Institution in Lebanon. Etiquette Touch is an institution which primary purpose is to allow people to distinguish themselves among others by adding a touch of etiquette to their business, social, and personal life. The programs cover number of activities ranging from social introduction to dining manners to cross-cultural awareness. Each activity is tailored towards specific age groups, genders, business approaches and the personal needs of the clients. Workshops, private and group sessions as well as corporate training are given in order to better respond to the varying needs.
 

4. Did you like your experience in Star Academy 10 as an etiquette coach? And would you like to participate again?

I liked it very much. Star Academy 10 allowed me to meet many young talents from the Arab world eager to learn about international etiquette. At the beginning they were reluctant about the importance of etiquette in their lives, but with every meeting they started to like etiquette and adopt it. I will definitely love to participate again.


 

5. When was etiquette invented, tell us about the history of etiquette?



Etiquette is a French word meaning tag or label.

The French invented it more specifically King Louis XIV, also known as “le Roi Soleil” or “the “Sun King”, during the 17^th century AD. King Louis XIV started to post the rules for his guests to follow in his gardens in Versailles.  This developed into daily life rules to follow. French took manners much more seriously in those days, and people were strict about following the rules. Etiquette was born.

 

6. What is etiquette and why is it important?


The definition of etiquette: " The rules and conventions governing correct or polite behavior in society in general, or in a particular social or professional group or situation.” Encarta World English Dictionary, St. Martin’s Press.

Etiquette is a knowledge that will last a lifetime. People will use it in their daily lives- at home, at schools even at work. In these days, competition is very fierce, and companies are looking for a differentiating factor when hiring new employees. They are relying on manners and soft skills a lot. I always tell my students: etiquette is not only rules to make your life harder, it is a way of life.

 

7. Which country follow etiquette rules strictly till now?

Etiquette varies from one country to another. It follows the culture. So etiquette is followed in every country. But we can say that the country that follows the most etiquette rules is the United Kingdom.

 

8. What rules have changed since etiquette was formed?

Many rules have changed since they were formed as etiquette adapts with time. But some rules as bowing when meeting someone or kissing the hands of ladies have almost vanished.

 

9. Some people think that following etiquette rules are hard, tiring and old fashion, please correct those mistaken believes?

It isn't easy to follow etiquette at the beginning. Like everything in life, whenever we start doing something new we feel it s hard but with time it becomes easier. As mentioned above, etiquette has adapted with time so it isn't old-fashioned. Etiquette is full of rules that polish our manners. Once we start following these rules it will become a way of life. So I encourage people to start learning about etiquette the soonest.

 

10. Do you think that etiquette should be a subject in schools?

I personally think that etiquette should be taught in schools especially with this globalization where manners and traditions are vanishing. Etiquette is a subject that they will use all their lifetime.

 

11. What is the basic etiquette rules that everyone should know?



Etiquette is about respect. consideration and honesty. This is the basic rule.

 

12. What age do you recommend to start etiquette classes?

The sooner the better. I start giving youth etiquette classes for 3 year old kids. But it is never too late to start taking etiquette classes. I recommend that every student in the university takes an etiquette course as this will help him/her to distinguish themselves in the business world.

 

13. Etiquette classes are not just about setting a proper table it does much more than that, it help will personality-building and self-confidence. Provide us with more information?


True, etiquette will help in personality-building and self-confidence. Etiquette will allow you to feel at ease and comfortable in any critical situation. Plus, you will be a leader in your society as people will start to follow you without even telling you. That is why etiquette is essential for self-development.

 

14. Can parents take etiquette classes to help them raise their children?


Yes, of course. Children imitate what their parents do. They eat, talk and behave like them.  I encourage parents to take etiquette classes because it will surely add knowledge to their background.


 

15. What is the most important thing teens should know about etiquette?

Teens should know that etiquette is essential for them. As said above, it helps in personality-building and self-confidence. They should also know that Etiquette is an eternal weapon that they will use in their social, business and personal life.





16. Technology is a big part of teenager's life recently, for example they use their mobile phones everywhere. What advice would you give them to avoid impolite behaviors?

I would tell the teenagers to be in control of their phone and not be controlled by it.

 

17. Simple tips to help teens during a formal dinner?


Eat slowly, not aggressively and quietly. Put your phone on silent mode and in your pocket or bag.


 

18.  In a formal dinner what kind of topics teenagers should start a conversation with?

I am going to tell you what are the topics that they should not talk about: Religion, money and politics. Gossiping is not tolerated either. They can talk about astronomy, science, history, new technological inventions and a lot more.

 

19.  Most common mistakes done by teenagers?

They think being polite is being weak. This is the biggest mistake.

 

20. Your advice that will help teens in their everyday life?

I will repeat the 3 main words: respect, consideration and honesty. I ask them to stop with this fashionable sarcasm and start respecting and feeling with the people around them.