Good manners are always in style. They change somewhat with demographics and time but they never disappear. Whether you are sitting for your first interview, re-entering the workplace taking a new position or wanting to polish your professional presence for career advancement your knowledge of business etiquette is essential. Protocol is a collection of customs and defined regulations for conduct courtesy ceremonies and official actions among nations. Protocol is a set of rules that tend to be fixed over time. Recently you will find that this word is being used a lot in our everyday language where there has been a breach of etiquette. I have worked for many years in various different business sectors from retail to banking, administration to customer care, an airline company to marketing in the motor industry. For the best part of these years I enjoyed my work but there were also times throughout my career that were not enjoyable. These were the times were I had experienced and saw such breaches of propriety so brutal that it caused hurt to individual feelings created misunderstandings thus resulting in real grief and pain. I myself on a couple of occasions was on the receiving end of these violations of etiquette. I came understand that we are unaware and our ignorance of the right way to do things can cause upset and stress for others. In my research I could see that this ignorance and lack of awareness seemed to be the norm in modern day businesses, that we are ignorant of the correct manners and code of behaviours. Our ignorance of this fact has caused us problems and stress to ourselves as well as others. This was a definite case where the rule ‘ignorance is bliss’ does not apply. To many the word ‘Etiquette’ conjures up images of someone who is stuffy old fashioned or pretentious. But etiquette is not about putting on airs being artificial or being better than anyone else. It is a powerful practical and profitable skill you can use when it counts the most. Good manners are all about behaviour, knowing the right behaviours, being comfortable in all situations and making others comfortable. There are many reasons why etiquette consulting is a good career move - choosing a business you enjoy is of utmost importance. In June 2009, I received certification in etiquette and protocol from the esteemed Protocol School of Washington, in the United States of America. PSOW are the leaders in etiquette and protocol training services, worldwide and for that I was truly grateful having the opportunity – it was a life changing experience.