NOW AND THEN ETIQUETTE CHANGES

Then

Letter format – Debrett’s once advised that letters were the only medium for formal correspondence, and business letters should be printed on A4 paper.

Dress to impress – for work, men were advised to pair a suit with a silk tie that had woollen lining, was always fully done up and never tucked into trousers.

Smoke and mirrors – even when smoking was permitted everywhere, Debrett’s advised people to smoke considerately, avoid filling the room with smoke, and keep ash trays clean. It now says people shouldn’t vape in the office.

Now

Never wear pyjamas for a phone interview – virtual interview etiquette is now in their guide. They believe adopting corporate attire will put you in the right mindset for success.

Always follow a meeting or interview with an email – just make sure it is addressed and punctuated properly.

Don’t ever give in to your inner troll – following problems at Ryanair and Southern Rail, which caused an outpouring of social media put-downs, Debrett’s issued guidance to always be as polite online as you would on the phone.