12 Etiquette Consultants reveal: What do you say when people ask you about your job?

Some years ago I interviewed several Etiquette Professionals and I wanted to find out what they would say if someone asks them “What do you do for a living?”

Find out what they had to say:

• Walethia Aquil:

I provide my clients with the tools and skills necessary for them to be enthusiastic and comfortable in any social situation.

• Mindy Lockard:

Aside from I have the best job in the world? I often make it clear not to worry as it would be inappropriate for me to make verbal or mental judgments. Unless asked of course.

• Karen Hickman:

I’m in the nice business.”

• Arden Clise:

I say “I’m an etiquette consultant, but don’t worry, I’m not on duty.” (Thanks Maria for that one!). Then I explain I help professionals feel more confident and comfortable in the workplace. I’m still figuring out my elevator pitch.

• Diane Gottsman:

I say that I teach corporate etiquette. I don’t feel the need to be funny or say anything catchy because when I tell them what I do they are usually intrigued and have a million questions. My own doctor keeps me in his office much longer talking about etiquette than he does talking about my stomach ache.

• William Hanson:

I hate being asked by people what I do as it normally then involves a long conversation, or just a stunned reaction. Whilst there’s nothing more I like than telling people what I do (I am not embarrassed) sometimes when you are asked and you’re at the bank filling in a form or something, you really don’t want to get into a big confab. I now just say ‘consultant’ in those situations.

• Jodi R. Smith:

I tell them that I teach confidence.

• Janice S. Gibson:

I am an Etiquette, Hospitality, and Tea Educator. I teach social and dining etiquette to children and adults. I teach leadership skills (politeness and sensitivity to others, self respect, and self confidence) — skills that you can use now and for the rest of your life.

• Rebecca Black:

I begin by saying that I have the most rewarding and enjoyable job on the face of the world. I have the opportunity to help others feel more confident; I help my clients realize that everything they do affects those around them, and I prepare them for their future. I feel that my clients leave me feeling as if they are more socially savvy and feel comfortable in shared spaces.

• Juanita Ecker:

I tell them, “I teach the skills that lead to business savvy and professional success”. Whenever I tell people I am a business etiquette consultant, the response I often get is, “boy is that needed today.” It’s true. Business etiquette training is needed for every company that wants to create positive impressions that last and last.

• Lisa Mirza Grotts:

I teach people ways to outclass their competition and make them more competitive in both business and social environments.

• Jay Remer:

A work in progress; getting traction; keeping me busy; filled with frustrations and challenges and joy.