Etiquestions

ETIQUESTIONS

Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

I have noticed that people seem to be on edge lately, from road rage to rude people in restaurants and airports. I have heard that it may be a result of all the stress caused by the pandemic. What would you suggest we keep in mind, as we try to socialize, travel, and meet in person again?

Over the last year, we have all been conditioned to be cautious. Many of us have even gotten used to being at home, not getting dressed up, and not needing the energy it takes to attend lots of events. Have some empathy and understand that everyone is trying to do their best. With short staffs, short supplies, and short patience, many organizations are challenged to do as well as they can. We all need to have some patience and understanding. A sign of someone with great etiquette skills is compassion.

Do I need to tell people that I am vaccinated? I find that many people have such strong opinions about it, and I don’t want to offend anyone.

It’s okay to tell people that you are fully vaccinated or not vaccinated at all. It is vital information that many venues may even require for entrance. It is simply a matter of safety, and inquiring about it should not be considered rude. The key to handling these conversations politely is for both sides to drop the judgment. Clear communication during times of change is crucial but being polite while communicated is good etiquette.

I am still confused as to whether it is good etiquette to ask people if they are comfortable with hugging or if they are vaccinated. What is your etiquette advice?

This is a great question, and we receive it often. At the start of the pandemic, we had to ask about comfort levels and safety precautions as we were trying to socially distance but still try to get together. It is advisable to continue to ask about these things as we open back up and reengage in social activities. However, be prepared that someone may not feel comfortable answering a question about vaccinations. I would suggest asking things like, “Are we hugging?”, “I’d love to have you over. Are you ready for indoor visits?”, or “We would love to have you come over for pizza on Friday. We ask that if you are not yet vaccinated, you wear a mask and maintain social distance because the kids are too young to get vaccinated.” These types of questions allow for open conversations without judgment.

Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa, Ph.D. is a wife, mother, and educator living in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. She is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University with a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. In addition, she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Education from McLennan Community College, Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American, and a Master of Arts in Educational Supervision from the University of Texas – Pan American. Dr. Baggerly-Hinojosa’s current research is focused on servant leadership, gender issues in leadership, and leadership communication. www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com