Juliet Mitchell, is a master etiquette trainer and business coach with clients around the globe. She energizes and informs crowds with her intellect, humor and southern “Ms. J” persona. Her practical strategies, tips and tools for career and life success can positively affect the bottom line of any business or organization.
Before you begin the interview, we want to know a little about who you are. Please share with us a little about yourself that you do not mind sharing with the world.
Juliet Mitchell (Ms. J) is CEO of Life Etiquette Institute™, LLC. Life my Etiquette Institute offers business and social etiquette, and career and professional development training, workshops, and seminars. I am a Resident of St.Paul, Minnesota, my husband Jim and I are dedicated to giving back to the community through volunteerism. We do our best to demonstrate our commitment to giving back to others by donating our time, talents, and resources.
Tell us about your journey into the etiquette industry.
Etiquette has always been a part of my life; I just didn't know the term. As a GRITS (Girls Raised in the South) good manners, proper behavior and respect for our self and others were ingrained. Through the years I became more keenly aware of the impact that "etiquette" has on life and relationship success. Following a job elimination, I began to focus on work readiness and career development. The more I did this work, personal poise, image, and presentation kept rising up. I began to focus on the etiquette as my primary work about 10 years ago.
What are some of the trends you see emerging in the etiquette industry?
As I write this, COVID-19 is at the forefront of life. Social distancing and how that looks in personal and business interactions are the top trends. As a handshake (I learned the art and science of handshaking) the "don't touch" boundary is front and center. It's quite an adjustment.
Outside of teaching, how does etiquette serve you in your personal life? (Share a story)
I have a full and vibrant life. As I write this, I am at our timeshare at Breezy Point Minnesota. We come here to relax, fish and enjoy nature. Well, my husband fishes; I relax and enjoy nature. I am a walker; wherever I go, I walk. Since COVID-19 has impacted our lives, I am still committed to health and wellness. My friend and I are exploring different walking paths. We put on our PPE and head out. Minnesota has some of the best trails but I also walk when I travel. I love cooking and trying new recipes.
What was one of your most profound achievements as an etiquette professional, and how did it shape your career?
One of my most profound achievements is that I developed my etiquette curriculum while working with male inmates (participants) at a local jail. The name, in part, was recommended by one of the participants. During my time there my "program" was voted and/or nominated as the most effective among the population we served.
What is the best etiquette advice you have ever received?
Be on your best behavior at all times.
I like how Michelle Obama says it, "when they go low, we go high."
How do you inspire your students and clients to learn etiquette in this modern world?
I make it fun and engaging. I also come from a very practical point of view. It has to make sense and be applicable to everyday life. That's why it's called "Life Etiquette".
Share one rule of etiquette that you bend from time to time?
When I'm alone or when it's just me and my husband, I will like my finger if a bit of sauce or something is on it.
Share one way a person can make a positive first impression on a job interview.
One way a person can make a positive first impression on a job interview is by being on time, and well dressed for the job they are seeking employment for.
How does etiquette influence confidence?
You can be more poised when you know what to do and how to do it. That certainly gives me more confidence. You can adjust as you go along.
Please share with us your favorite quote. It can be from someone you admire, someone famous, or from yourself.
I have had much and I have had little, I have learned to be content in any and every situation.
If you could work one on one with a celebrity client, who would it be?
If I could work with one celebrity, it would be Kevin Hart.
Share the name of a book, and author that you believe will inspire a young lady to become a better version of herself...(no limit to the amount of books you share)
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Maya Angelo; The Bible or Book on their Faith or Belief System.
To learn More about Juliet or book a course with her visit http://mannersarememorable.com/