This beautiful little ad I found explains the difference between etiquette and manners.
Isn’t that a wonderful video ? So, what is the difference between Etiquette and manners ?
” We cannot always oblige. But we can speak obligingly” ~ Voltaire
Etiquette is a code of social behavior within a social group. An example of correct etiquette is when you use different knives and forks for different types of food, eating with our right hand if you are right handed. Etiquette includes dining, general, business, mobile phone, netiquette, travel, waiting rooms, standing in queues, even washrooms !
Etiquette is protocol, a set of behaviour or rules you can memorize like a map, which will guide you safely through life.
Mannersare external behavior(especially polite behavior) in social interaction.
Manners are a way of doing something or the way in which a thing is done or happens. Manners are what you do in order to be polite, courteous. You say “PLEASE” and “THANK YOU” to show good manners.
You are not showing ETIQUETTE while doing this.
If you are using the wrong spoon or knife you are not being BAD mannered. You are just not using the correct etiquette.
Manners are much more, since they are an expression from the heart on how to treat others whether you care about them or not.
Manners teach you how to value another’s self-esteem and to protect that person’s feelings. Etiquette consists of firm rules made by others who have come before, telling you to do this and do that on specific occasions.
Etiquette means acting with grace and efficiency, but your manners are yours, yours to use in making order out of chaos, making people feel comfortable, and giving pleasure to others.
