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PRESS RELEASE 12 July 2002 IN A MANNER OF SPEAKING If you think the days of etiquette are over and if have you recently taken a mobile phone call while having coffee with a friend or used your messaging facility to screen calls you have committed the social gaffes of the 21st century. Whatever the causes, common courtesies such as returning phone calls, answering letters or sending hand-written thank you notes are becoming relics of the past. It is quite mistaken to believe that good manners and observance of etiquette meant subjecting yourself to a set of 20th century rules, stilted and artificial in the extreme. "It's really nothing like that at all" comments Ms Louise Percy, Principal of The Percy Institute of International Protocol, which has recently opened an office in Singapore. " I firmly believe that the guidelines of etiquette in the world of today mean having the understanding to show respect and consideration with everyone with whom you come in contact". Founded in Perth, Western Australia in 1992, The Percy Institute is an etiquette and protocol consultancy working with individuals, organizations and schools to develop the interpersonal skills critical to confidence and success. It provides training and advice to those wishing to enhance their social, communication and entertaining skills, and also to children learning modern manners that will equip them as they move into the "world wide global village". Drawing on the experience she gained over twenty years in both the diplomatic and political arenas in which she has worked in the press office of two Australian Prime Ministers, Ms Percy is a recognised authority in protocol, etiquette and executive professionalism, and is a regularly interviewed guest on radio and television programs. The purpose of The Percy Institute of International Protocol is to deliver practical and useful information that helps people present themselves as polished and self-confident in social, business and educational situations. With the certified The Percy Institute of International Protocol trainers in Singapore she consults and conducts training programs on all aspects of etiquette, communication skills, presentation and protocol. Ms Percy has written a book on western social etiquette Modern Manners - A Guide which provides important information for all those whose day-to-day business and social dealings require conducting themselves correctly to an international standard "Unfortunately the pace of modern life means that we rush everything and so I am trying to encourage even better communication and email manners by reminding people that they are still communicating with others and that a please and a thank you are still in order even if the message is transmitted on an email" says Ms Percy. "Having the ability to put others at their ease is the mark of a gracious person and it takes very little effort to be courteous, " she comments. " It is so easy to remember that courtesy is the key in all communication circumstances. Graciousness is a concept that is considered old fashioned in the 21st century; I believe that it embodies the three really important C's: courtesy, caring and charm." advises Ms Percy.
Located in Caltex House, The Percy Institute of International Protocol has commenced training and consultation in all aspects of personal presentation, image and deportment, communication skills, social etiquette and the art of entertaining. For
further information please contact: |