The Complete Idiot's Guide to Modern Manners Fast-Track by Mitchell, Mary, Weber, Jim. (ALPHA,2012) [Paperback]

by Mary M. Mitchell

Technology is changing society faster than anyone could have imagined even a few short years ago. People share intimate details to hundreds of acquaintances online, yet they are stumped when it comes to writing a simple thank-you note. They talk, text, and surf on their phones constantly but seem oblivious to the needs of the people who are right in front of them. The Complete Idiot's Guide to Modern Manners, Fast Track, helps people navigate the uncertain waters of modern social behavior and gives them tips for overcoming the most common miserable moments they're likely to encounter. In it, readers learn how - Make a good first impression in person, over the phone, in print, and online- Practice good table manners in a world of buffets, informal meals, and a proliferation of restricted diets- Get along with neighbors and their pets, kids, habits, and hobbies- Maintain harmony in the office despite the more casual nature of the workplace- Master the social possibilities of online networking, texting, and smartphones while avoiding embarrassing faux pas- Whip out the old-fashioned pen for written correspondence that makes an impact- Communicate comfortably in person, including small talk, defusing tense situations, and avoiding subjects that are still too uncomfortable for polite conversation- Navigate the difficult situations that arise when traveling and out on the town- Maintain genuine respect for others' differences and disabilities- Be the model of manners at celebrations of life's milestone moments, including weddings and births- Get the right answer to all gift quandaries- People are busy and no longer have the time or inclination to comb through Emily Post. This quick book helps readers get the answers they need so they can get on with life.

Unknown Binding

First published December 31, 2012

About the author

Mary 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.

Reviews

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Some useful information. Much of it was so basic, however, that it was a fast read. I wonder if this would be especially useful to people visiting the US from a different culture, or perhaps someone who has lived in an isolated low-population area moving to a high-population area where they will have social interaction in new settings. Still, it is nice to be reminded that kindness and good posture will take you far in most settings.

[Mark Oppenlander · Rating 4 out of 5]

Do you remember that scene in The Matrix where Neo gets jacked in to a computer and after a few moments opens his eyes and says "I know kung fu?" Reading this book is a little like that. Mary Mitchell and co-author Jim Weber have packed a lot into this short volume and it feels like a download straight into your brain. Here is everything you didn't know that you didn't know about manners and etiquette.

Short chapters cover everything from first impressions to email and social media to table manners to how to deal with difficult neighbors. This book goes beyond business and professional behavior to cover manners across all of modern life. And because it is broken into such bite size pieces and so well organized, you can easily use it as a quick reference guide later.

I have heard Ms. Mitchell speak on a number of occasions and I have read other books of hers. Yet every time I approach her work, I feel like I am learning something new. If you've ever had questions about modern manners, in the workplace or at home, do yourself a favor and pick up this book. It's a quick read and jam-packed with great tips and advice.