Etiquette & Leadership Coach helping people show up with confidence, kindness and credibility.

Etiquette isn’t about being fancy—it’s about being thoughtful.  In today’s fast-paced world, small courtesies and everyday respect go a long way in building trust, connection, and community.  Whether you’re at work, out running errands, or simply spending time with family, how you treat others makes a difference.

Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

Etiquette Express is here to offer practical tips and honest answers to modern etiquette dilemmas, big or small.  Each month, you’ll find a reader-submitted question along with a clear response, plus a practical etiquette tip you can try the next time you need it.

Q. My coworker microwaves fish at lunch almost every day, and the smell takes over the whole office.  What’s the polite way to handle this?

A. Ah, the infamous office microwave mystery meal.  If you have a friendly rapport, try something light like: “Hey, I know we all love our lunches, but the fish smell really hangs around.  Any chance we could switch it up once in a while?”

If that feels too direct—or if it doesn’t work—you could also ask your manager to send a general reminder about keeping shared spaces comfortable for everyone.  It’s a common issue, and it can usually be handled with a bit of tact and teamwork.

Etiquette Tip of the Week: 

Napkin Know-How

Place your napkin on your lap as soon as you sit down.  No need to wait for the food.  It’s a small move that shows you’re relaxed, confident, and ready to enjoy the meal.  If you need to leave the table, don’t place your napkin on your chair.  Instead, set it loosely to the left of your plate.

Pro tip:  Fold the napkin with the crease facing you.  That way, when you dab your mouth, you’re using the inside—keeping the outside neat.

Have a situation you’d like help with?  Write in and your question may be featured in a future column.  Let’s build a kinder, more respectful world, one interaction at a time.

Lee-Ann Barkhouse is a certified etiquette and leadership coach who helps people show up with confidence, kindness, and credibility.  At Invest in You, she shares practical tools to make everyday moments more thoughtful and meaningful—whether at work, at home, or right here in the community.