The Complete Idiot's Guide to Etiquette, 3rd Edition [Paperback]

Mary Mitchell (Author)

Book Description

Release date: September 7, 2004 | Series: The Complete Idiot's Guide

Props to the proper!

An updated and revised guide to good manners, politeness, and professionalism from one of the most civilized women on the planet, this book outlines the importance of etiquette in such social and personal situations as ending a relationship, asking forgiveness, and saying “no.” This revised edition features updated information on business etiquette, workplace clothing trends, and e-mail and cell phone etiquette, along with new tips on stress and travel in a post-9/11 world.

• Help on maintaining etiquette when dealing with gay marriages, adoptions, and blended families

• Appeals to a variety of audiences, including 20-somethings who are entering the workforce, buying homes, and entertaining

• Text has been reorganized for easier reading and reference

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

Mary Mitchell, Ms. Demeanor herself, takes you through Y2K and beyond with The Complete Idiot's Guide to Etiquette, Second Edition. Topics covered include gifts and e-commerce: can you "wrap" an electronic gift?, telecommuting and the home office: the impact on family and friends, and volunteering: the fine line between being Mother Theresa and Lady Bountiful. This title also includes an updated section on weddings, plus tips from the expert on dining on the run, takeout, new tipping systems, and manners at Mickey D's. Other topics include privacy, diversity, and harassment issues on the job, E-mail etiquette and computer manners, and saying the right thing--is small talk dead? --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

Mary Mitchell is the author of a nationally syndicated column, “Dear Ms. Demeanor” and has appeared on Good Morning America, Fox Style News, and the Lifetime network. Her books include The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Business Etiquette and Class Acts: How Good Manners Create Good Relationships and Good Relationships Create Good Business, which she co-wrote with etiquette superstar Letitia Baldridge.

Product Details

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: ALPHA; 3 edition (September 7, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1592572618
• ISBN-13: 978-1592572618
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.3 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (9 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #137,778 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Mary M. Mitchell has written nine books. Her column "Ms. Demeanor," which originated in The Philadelphia Inquirer (where it ran twice weekly for ten years), was nationally syndicated by King Features. The Seattle Times ran her column "Nice Matters" for several years. She currently writes a column on modern etiquette for Reuters, and she is frequently quoted in nationally circulated magazines as an etiquette authority. She is much in demand as a corporate trainer for matters relating to civility and professionalism.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

18 of 18 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars Broad enough for us Idiots May 20, 2005

By Kenneth Brewster

Format:Paperback

For those who feel this Guide dwells too much on the "obvious" to the detriment of the comprehensive, I might recommend something like the dictionary-size Emily Post's book of Etiquette. But I grew up in the working-class American culture (think trailer parks, country music lyrics, and "po' white trash"). I've made very serious social blunders not knowing unstated "rules" that many (most?) middle-class people believe to be "obvious". Two college degrees did not teach me these rules. Praise God for the Complete Idiot's Guide to Etiquette, which explains the "obvious" with sympathy and clarity.

13 of 13 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A fantastic guide for the average person February 19, 1999

By A Customer

Format:Paperback

This is a simple-to-read, fun way of learning about the niceties of social behavior. Mary Mitchell writes with wit and wisdom as she leads us through an area that has been neglected for too long. Learningful and fun reading. I learned (or remembered) much. Thank you Ms. Mitchell for this book.

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful

4.0 out of 5 stars A Good Practical Guide February 1, 2000

By Mei-Ling

Format:Paperback

I found this book to be quite thorough while maintaining an interesting and friendly style. Etiquette is still very important in our rather relaxed, modern lifestyles. It is not only for the elite, it if for everyone. It helps us to respect ourselves and others. This guide will help you understand and practice proper etiquette and feel far more comfortable and at ease in almost any social setting. My only misgiving was that it was very American focused (most understandable considering it is an American publication). However, whether you are American or English, there is something here for everyone.