When I was young, social skills (aka soft skills) did not come naturally to me. I was shy, quirky, and kind of a wall flower. I often tried to like someone else, but quickly learned that being inauthentic didn’t work. In fact, it ultimately resulted in many embarrassing, painful moments and regrets. The pain became my motivation to change. Determined to succeed, I began a 30-year journey into studying etiquette, human behavior, and executive presence, and I learned how to develop my own authentic brand. I applied those learnings in my own career, and doors began to open for me. I went from an entry-level back-office position to Sales and Marketing management for two airlines, one in Canada, and one in the US. I also became the Executive Director for several non-profit organizations, including a chapter of the American Red Cross, a United Way, and a Chamber of Commerce. I studied and practiced international etiquette and protocol abroad through my travels which include Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Mexico, Europe, Africa, and throughout my home country of Canada. I was the first woman elected to the Board of Directors of the London International Airshow and received the Woman of Distinction Award in 2009 by the Business and Professional Women’s Association. Fast forward to today -- I have earned the highest certifications in the etiquette industry. I was trained and licensed by The Protocol School of Washington®, the leader in international protocol, cross-cultural awareness, business etiquette and image training... the first and only accredited business etiquette, protocol and communication skills school in the nation recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. I am also certified in children/teen etiquette from The American School of Protocol and Certified in Intercultural Intelligence with Aperian Global. Plus, I’ve had additional training with Protocol London, The British School of Etiquette, The United Nations Institute of Training and Research (UNITAR), The Science of People, and The Etiquette School of South Africa. In 2016, I founded my practice, Etiquette Matters LLC in Minnesota, after many people encouraged me to share this unique and highly sought-after knowledge. So now I work with young professionals, as well as anyone wanting to “up their game”. I also teach high school and college students, rebels, risk-takers, and underdogs with the essential people skills that can propel their career, build meaningful relationships, close deals, and improve their self-confidence.
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