3 Valentine's Day Etiquette Gaffes to Avoid

If the office dress code allows it, add a splash of color to your wardrobe on Valentine’s Day, says etiquette coach Josephine Dries of Rochester Hills. (Photo via Creative Commons)

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Valentine’s Day is approaching, and Josephine Dries’ email inbox is full of questions about proper etiquette when mixing business and the holiday for lovers.

The Rochester Hills etiquette coach and public relations strategist says it boils down to three points:

Don’t give gifts that are inappropriate for an office environment. When giving, take note of the relationship among employees and between boss and subordinates.

“Even in a close office environment, one would fulfill proper etiquette by gifting a smaller gift (no more than $5) to everyone in the office and would not need to pick out a specific gift for each individual,” Dries said.

“If you have a personal assistant, male or female, a little something extra for that individual is always appropriate,” she said. “Unless you are in a romantic relationship with the individual in the office, avoid any semblance of romance in a gift, make it a friendly gesture.”

Don’t hang back tentatively at a business event or office party. Make a memorable entrance, Dries said, and display the qualities others want to be around: humility, confidence and authority/

“Be that person during this season, more than any other,” says Josephine. “When you make your entrance, find and go directly to the host and thank them for hosting. Make eye contact, and smile, as you walk through the room, so you do not look lost; and, remember, beginning with gratitude is always effective.”

Don’t dress in drab colors. Unless the office dress code discourages it, add some color.

“Proper clothing etiquette is forever in question in business environments. If appropriate to your environment, then, by all means, add a little red to your wardrobe on that day – be it in the form of socks, tie, jewelry or accessories – make a statement,” Dries said. “My favorite explanation of proper etiquette is the one that states you are in the best etiquette standing when you make others feel the most comfortable. Dressing the part will help tear down defenses, welcome dialogue and make others feel at ease with you,” she said.

Also on Patch:

• Wild Valentine’s Day Idea: How Animals Make Woo at the Zoo
• Oh, You Animal: Celebrate Valentine’s Day in the Wild
• What State Loves to Cuddle Up with a Romantic Movie?

Dries, only one of a handful of certified Protocol and Etiquette experts in the state of Michigan and founder of Insert Catchy Headlines, said etiquette is becoming a lost art.

“There isn’t much that can make up for a lack of tact and consideration,” she said. “Balance needs to be implemented in a world that is so caught up in itself. Committing to bringing proper protocol back into your world will not only attribute to your personal standing, but to the landscape of the world as a whole.”

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