Diane Gottsman | Leading Etiquette Expert | Modern Manners Authority

Leading Etiquette Expert and Modern Manners Authority Diane Gottsman’s official blog, with Business Etiquette, University Etiquette, Social Media Etiquette, Dining Etiquette and more.

Update and Refine Your Social Skills for 2025

02 Jan 2025 By: Diane Gottsman

Update your social skills for 2025 | planner flat lay with pen, computer mouse, office supplies

According to a study conducted by Harvard, Stanford, and the Carnegie Foundation, 85% of your job success comes from establishing well-developed social skills, leaving only 15% of your professional success to technical aptitude. There is value in honing your skills which will benefit you personally and professionally. Think about it. People connect with people they like, identify with, and feel comfortable around. The following are some basic steps to get started on your 2025 Social Skills Update.

Update and Refine Your Social Skills for 2025

Expand Your Knowledge

You don’t have to sit down and read a book a week to get the best from strong leadership, inspirational guides, and mentors. There are apps and podcasts you can find that will give you short quotes, half-hour lectures, or a cliffnote version of a great book. You can utilize them when you drive, fly, walk the dog, or conduct your daily routine.

Borrow eBooks and listen to an audiobook from Libby, free from your local public library (you’ll need your library card to use this app). Duolingo is a popular app that teaches language in short, easy lessons. Blinkist is a paid service that provides book summaries and podcasts or reading summaries. These are especially helpful when your goal is to learn more in less time, focusing on your particular interests.

Scale Back Scrolling on Social Media

Rather than spending time “nose down” on your phone, make it a point to cut back on your scrolling and pay more attention to the people you are eating with, working alongside, and communicating with in person. While there is value in social media, cutting back can give you time to build stronger real-life connections and often reduces stressors such as unrealistic comparisons, pressure to purchase unnecessary items, lessens anxiety, and increases your daily focus and productivity.

Look for New Opportunities

You may feel your life is filled with too many obligations already, but evaluating what you can eliminate, and looking for new opportunities and ways to volunteer and help out in the community will often inadvertently put you in a position to practice your social skills and meet new, interesting people. The benefit of helping others also improves your skills and emotional well-being.

Network With a Purpose

Make a point to attend functions where you will be exposed to like-minded people, and those you aspire to meet and emulate. You can be your own, unique self while learning from those who are comfortable and confident in professional settings. They all have a few things in common – they know how to make others feel at ease while interacting authentically and with respect. Here is a basic list:

  • Stand up – avoid sitting down at social or business functions during the networking portion.
  • Greet first – be the first to extend your hand for a handshake.
  • Wear your nametag – on the right side of the shoulder.
  • Make eye contact – but not overbearing – 40 to 60% of the time.
  • Introduce yourself to strangers – with your first and last name.

Get Your Rest

One of the best resolutions you can make is to get enough sleep—the right amount has a direct effect on your quality of life. Quality sleep can help reduce anxiety, depression, stress, and increase your ability to think clearly.  The National Sleep Foundation suggests 7 to 8 hours per night for adults. Here are some tips for preparing for a good night’s rest by creating a nightly routine:

  • Pull the shades and check the thermostat to make sure you are at a comfortable temp.
  • Put your phone in another room. Somewhere close but not next to the bed.
  • Avoid working on your computer or scrolling right before bedtime.
  • Drink a cup of herbal tea. My favorite is Sleepytime by Celestial Seasonings.
  • Pray or meditate.
  • Sound machines are helpful for some.
  • Avoid heavy exercise before bed.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go To” social and professional etiquette authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas. 

See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook and find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost. 

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Diane Gottsman

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and modern manners professional, sought out industry leader, television personality, accomplished speaker, Huffington Post blogger, author, and the owner of The Protocol School of Texas, a company specializing in executive leadership and etiquette training. Diane is routinely quoted in national and international media including The New York Times, The BBC, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, Kiplinger, Huffington Post Canada, U.S. News and World Report, and Forbes. She is the resident etiquette expert for two popular morning talk shows, SA Living and Good Day Austin. She has been seen on The TODAY Show, HLN Headline News, WGN Chicago, and CBS Sunday Morning. Her clients range from university students to Fortune 500 companies and her workshops cover topics ranging from tattoos in the workplace to technology at the dinner table and the proper use of social media.