Life is full of moments when you don't know how to act or how to handle yourself in front of other people. In these situations, etiquette is vital for keeping your sense of humor and your self-esteem intact. But etiquette is not a behavior that you should just turn on and off. This stuffy French word that translates into getting along with others allows you to put people at ease, make them feel good about a situation, and even improve your reputation.

Etiquette For Dummies approaches the subject from a practical point of view, throwing out the rulebook full of long, pointless lists. Instead, it sets up tough social situations and shows you how to navigate through them successfully, charming everyone with your politeness and social grace. This straightforward, no-nonsense guide will let you discover the ins and outs of: basic behavior for family, friends, relationships, and business; grooming, dressing, and staying healthy; coping with unexpected stuff like sneezing or feeling queasy; maintaining a civilized relationship; making friends and keeping them; building positive relationships at work; and communicating effectively.