Etiquette Expert: The Unwritten Rules That Make People Respect You

Send us Fan Mail Join The Press Club by AWF The Record for exclusive conversations, guided challenges, and a community of women building careers, businesses, and lives on their own terms: patreon.com/c/AWFTheRecord In this episode of Awf The Record , Jeannette Reyes and Mona Kosar Abdi welcome Elaine Swann, Founder of The Swann School of Protocol & Etiquette, for a special episode filmed at Walt Disney World. Elaine breaks down the unwritten rules of social etiquette that can make or break your reputation, from navigating corporate holiday parties and impressing your partner's family to hosting like a pro and handling uncomfortable conversations with confidence.

She shares how to make a lasting impression, master the art of small talk, give and receive gifts gracefully, and set boundaries without being rude. With the holidays approaching, Elaine reminds us that good etiquette isn't about being perfect or pleasing everyone.

It's about making others feel comfortable while knowing how to stand up for yourself. KEY POINTS 00:00 – Introduction: Holiday etiquette with Elaine Swann at Walt Disney World. 03:24 – Corporate holiday party rules that can impact your career. 06:23 – Networking, small talk, and making a lasting impression. 12:08 – Meeting your partner’s family and navigating awkward situations. 20:34 – Hosting etiquette, seating arrangements, and difficult guests. 28:56 – Making great introductions and mastering the details of hosting. 33:04 – Guest etiquette, hosting expectations, and thoughtful follow-ups. 38:08 – Gift-giving rules, unwanted presents, and regifting. 42:56 – Handling intrusive questions and setting boundaries. 45:57 – Gen Z's biggest etiquette mistake and why phone etiquette matters.

QUOTES “Etiquette is about putting others at ease.” – Elaine Swann “Your focus has to be on having people gain understanding of where you stand and not putting people down.” – Elaine Swann “Polite does not equal pushover.” – Elaine Swann “You can tell anybody anything. It's all about how you say it when you say it.” – Elaine Swann GUEST RESOURCES: Elaine Swann Website | IG | @elaineswann RESOURCES: Keep in touch with Awf The Record : YouTube: @AwfTheRecord Instagram: @awftherecordpodcast TikTok: @AwfTheRecord Mona Kosar Abdi IG | @monakabdi Jeannette Reyes IG | @msnewslady Keep in touch with Awf The Record: Watch on Youtube: @AwfTheRecord Follow us on Instagram: @awftherecordpodcast Follow us on TikTok: @AwfTheRecord Visit our website: Follow Mona on TikTok and IG Follow Jeannette on TikTok and IG