Jacqueline Whitmore

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Jacqueline Whitmore Jacqueline Whitmore, CSP, is a visionary trailblazer and trusted authority in the field of business etiquette and international protocol.

Executive Presence Expert | Corporate Protocol Consultant | Keynote Speaker | Author of BUSINESS CLASS: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work | Empowering professionals to navigate global business with poise and polish In 1998, Jacqueline founded The Protocol School of Palm Beach, a business etiquette consulting firm serving corporations, associations and universities in the US and abroad. Through her dedicated work with thousands of private and corporate clients, she has gained the well-earned reputation for being an exceptional speaker and trainer who motivates, inspires and produces extraordinary results. She is the author of "Business Class: Etiquette Essentials for Success at Work" and "Poised for Success: Mastering the Four Qualities That Distinguish Outstanding Professionals." Ranked as one of the most widely quoted etiquette experts in the world, Jacqueline's advice is sought by The New York Times, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, Business Insider, Time, Fortune, and O: The Oprah Magazine, among others. She has appeared as a guest on NPR, 20/20, CNN, FOX News, Anderson Cooper’s AC360° and countless radio shows.

Have you ever hesitated to send a dish back because you didn’t want to seem rude? 🍽️When your meal hasn’t been prepared ...
10/20/2026

Have you ever hesitated to send a dish back because you didn’t want to seem rude? 🍽️

When your meal hasn’t been prepared as requested, a polite explanation gives your server the opportunity to correct it.

I recently ordered salmon with the sauce on the side. When it arrived with sauce on top, I quietly asked for the preparation I’d requested, and the server took care of it.

The circumstances matter, including how much of the meal you’ve already eaten.

Swipe through for a courteous way to make your request, and save this for your next dinner out.

10/16/2026

A couple of weeks ago, I had the honor of speaking at the Annual Engineering Leadership Development Program (ELDP) Symposium at L3Harris Technologies .

L3Harris is a leader in the defense industry, delivering technology solutions across space, air, land, sea, and cyber to support some of our nation’s most critical missions.

For nearly 30 years, I’ve had the good fortune to speak for some of the top companies and organizations in the U.S. and abroad, and I can genuinely say this was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.

I worked with an impressive group of early-career engineers and emerging leaders on professional presence, networking, and business dining. They were engaged, curious, eager to learn, and willing to step outside their comfort zones and practice new skills. As a speaker and trainer, you couldn’t ask for a better group.

A heartfelt thank you to the entire ELDP team for inviting me to be part of such an impactful program. It was a privilege to spend time with this talented group of engineers and future leaders.

I left inspired by them, and grateful for the opportunity to play a small part in their professional development.

You’ve settled into your seat, the performance begins—and a bright phone screen keeps catching your eye.I recommend givi...
10/14/2026

You’ve settled into your seat, the performance begins—and a bright phone screen keeps catching your eye.

I recommend giving the person a moment to correct it. If the distraction continues, a quiet, courteous request is perfectly reasonable.

The wording matters, and so does your delivery. Keep your voice low. If the person becomes defensive or ignores you, an usher can help.

Have you ever had to handle this? How did it go?

10/12/2026

Feel awkward sending food back at a restaurant? 🍽️

If your meal hasn’t been prepared as requested, it’s perfectly appropriate to politely ask your server to have it corrected.

I ordered salmon with the sauce on the side. When it arrived with sauce on top, I discreetly asked for the preparation I’d requested, and the server took care of it.

Timing matters, too. Eating a large portion before deciding you don’t like it is a reason to reconsider that request.

In this week’s Ask the Etiquette Expert, I explain how to handle the situation with courtesy.

Save this for your next dinner out!

10/07/2026

When I look at this little girl, I think about the people who helped her grow.

My mother raised my brother and me in Haines City, Florida. At her hair salon, she encouraged me to talk to her customers. Those conversations taught me how to connect with people, a skill that eventually became central to my career.

My grandmother helped me believe I could accomplish something worthwhile. Their influence continues to shape the woman I am today.

Keep growing into someone your younger self would be proud of. Give yourself credit for the courage you’ve found along the way, including the small steps that only you know about.

What would your younger self be proud of you for today? 💛

A couple of weeks ago, I had the honor of speaking at the Annual Engineering Leadership Development Program (ELDP) Sympo...
10/05/2026

A couple of weeks ago, I had the honor of speaking at the Annual Engineering Leadership Development Program (ELDP) Symposium at L3Harris Technologies.

L3Harris is a leader in the defense industry, delivering technology solutions across space, air, land, sea, and cyber to support some of our nation’s most critical missions.

For nearly 30 years, I’ve had the good fortune to speak for some of the top companies and organizations in the U.S. and abroad, and I can genuinely say this was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.

I worked with an impressive group of early-career engineers and emerging leaders on professional presence, networking, and business dining. They were engaged, curious, eager to learn, and willing to step outside their comfort zones and practice new skills. As a speaker and trainer, you couldn’t ask for a better group.

A heartfelt thank you to the entire ELDP team for inviting me to be part of such an impactful program. It was a privilege to spend time with this talented group of engineers and future leaders.

I left inspired by them, and grateful for the opportunity to play a small part in their professional development.

Your seatmate is ready for a long conversation. You were hoping for a quiet flight. How do you politely excuse yourself?...
10/05/2026

Your seatmate is ready for a long conversation. You were hoping for a quiet flight. How do you politely excuse yourself? ✈️

As a former flight attendant, I always recommend traveling with headphones. They’re a familiar signal that you’d like some personal time.

Sometimes, a friendly explanation helps: “I hope you don’t mind, but I’d like to get some work done.” Then return to your laptop or book.

Being clear about what you need makes it easier for your seatmate to understand and respect your preference.

Swipe through for a few ways to end the conversation graciously.

Do you enjoy meeting people on flights, or would you rather have quiet time?

10/02/2026

Do you pick up your glass when you use a straw? 🥤

Using a straw is perfectly acceptable in casual dining. Just remember to lift your glass before taking a sip, keeping your posture comfortable and upright.

It’s a small detail you can put into practice at your next meal.

Had you heard this etiquette tip before? Let me know in the comments. ❤️

“How much should I give as a wedding gift?” It’s a question I hear often, especially when guests are already paying for ...
09/30/2026

“How much should I give as a wedding gift?” It’s a question I hear often, especially when guests are already paying for flights and a hotel.

My advice is to begin with what you can comfortably afford. Your relationship with the couple can help guide your choice, and a personal message in the card adds warmth to any gift.

What wedding gift expectation have you always wondered about? Let me know in the comments. 💌

A well-set table does more than look beautiful. It helps guests feel comfortable and gives them subtle clues about the m...
09/28/2026

A well-set table does more than look beautiful. It helps guests feel comfortable and gives them subtle clues about the meal ahead.

At home, I set the table for what I’m actually serving. Most nights, my husband and I use a knife, a fork, and paper napkins. A soup spoon has no place on the table if there’s no soup!

For a business or holiday dinner, a few additions can make the occasion feel special. The same practical rule applies: give guests what they need, place it where they expect to find it, and leave room for conversation.

Swipe through for a simple guide, including my favorite way to remember where the bread and water go.

What’s one table-setting detail you’ve always wondered about? Ask me in the comments.

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