The Etiquette of Behavior

Respect, Presence, and the Way We Treat People

It’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and it feels important to pause and reflect on what etiquette is—especially in our workplaces, classrooms, communities, and digital environments.

Etiquette is often narrowly defined as a set of technical rules: which fork to use, how to dress, or how to navigate professional settings “correctly.” While those elements have their place, they are not the foundation upon which we build. At its core, etiquette is about how we treat people—and how we care for the spaces we share.

It is how we authentically show up as ourselves with integrity. It is how we extend respect to others—especially when their backgrounds, cultures, perspectives, or experiences differ from our own. It is how we create collective environments where people feel welcomed, seen, and valued. It is a balanced perspective that we treat others the way we want to be treated.

True etiquette is expressed in tone, posture, listening, patience, and empathy. It shows up in meetings where every voice is respected, in classrooms where curiosity is encouraged, in community spaces where belonging is cultivated, and in workplaces where dignity is non-negotiable. It is demonstrated when we choose kindness over assumption, understanding over judgment, and inclusion over convenience.

In today’s increasingly connected and diverse world—particularly in education and technology—etiquette is less about perfection and more about presence. It’s about being aware of how our words, actions, and systems impact others, and how they shape the culture of our communities. It’s about leading with humanity.

When etiquette is rooted in respect and consideration, it becomes a powerful tool—not just for professionalism, but for building trust, strengthening community, and fostering shared progress.

That is a legacy worth honoring—not just today, but every day.