Elevated Etiquette - Exclusive Q+A with Modern Etiquette Expert Myka Meier
We invite you to Experience Something Extraordinary, as our collaboration with Modern Etiquette Expert, Author, and Founder of Beaumont Etiquette, Myka Meier, shares elevated jet etiquette tips VIP clients will truly appreciate during their private jet travels. We highlight interactions and experiences jetsetters encounter regularly at 40,000 feet, while presenting etiquette approved, modern insight into how to comfortably handle a multitude of situations while traveling onboard a private jet. In addition to enjoying our insightful and engaging videos, keep reading to discover our exclusive interview with Myka Meier below.
IJI: How did your passion for proper etiquette begin?
MM: I was working abroad in London when I took my first etiquette course as a young adult. While I always thought I knew which fork or knife to pick up, I always had that moment of hesitation where I didn’t feel completely confident. During that first course I was shocked at what I learned and couldn’t wait to go back for more courses. I soon began training under a former member of the Queen of England’s household staff and eventually went to Switzerland to enroll in finishing school. Years later I launched Beaumont Etiquette in 2012 and eventually co-founded The Plaza Hotel Finishing Program. In 2020, I released my two etiquette books Modern Etiquette Made Easy and Business Etiquette Made Easy. I always say I have the best job because I get to give people confidence through etiquette- just as it did for me!
IJI: Share insight into who your clients are and how they incorporate your expertise into their lives.
MM: The largest percent of my business is training corporate organizations ranging from tech startups to Fortune 100 companies. My clients are truly global and know that good manners can impact every nuance of life- both socially and in business. My clients range from private families who want their children to be trained to those who want to have their household staff trained in service etiquette. That same client may then have me come in to train their entire corporation on the best business practices or client hosting and networking. I often work with my team based out of New York, who are all amazing and also love becoming a part of a family, company or team. We travel nationally and globally to service clients and are always available virtually as well.
IJI: What is one of the most memorable etiquette mistakes you have ever made?
MM: I sat on the wrong side of a limousine in the seat that was designated for a President of a country. Now I often teach in a car which seat that is, so it’s quite full circle!
IJI: What is one of the newest etiquette lessons you have learned?
MM: I recently took a Korean dining etiquette course which in part focused on the art of holding chopsticks and the many offences that can be caused at the dining table while using them.
IJI: As our VIP and high-profile clients travel around the world, what is one tip you would share that is universal no matter where you land?
MM: You always want to follow the etiquette and protocol of the country or culture you are landing in. For example, if you land in Tokyo, you want to practice proper Japanese dining skills, you want to greet others correctly to show respect and also learn a few words or phrases in their native language.
IJI: Finish this sentence: Modern etiquette is…
MM: Showing respect and kindness to all.
