Lectures and Talks

Lectures and workshops provide an opportunity for me to share the butler's way of thinking, tailored to the interests of each audience. From demonstrating etiquette to discussing how organisations can design their service interactions, I can adapt the content to suit the listeners. Here I outline the topics I can cover, the formats available, and how to make an enquiry.

What Topics I Can Cover

I base my talks on four key areas: the butler's work and approach to hospitality, table manners, guest reception etiquette, and the design of service interactions.

For general audiences, I focus on everyday etiquette and the reasons behind it. For corporate groups, I add an organisational perspective on designing service interactions and maintaining quality regardless of who is on duty.

Interest in the butler's profession itself is also high, so I sometimes discuss a typical day and how one becomes a butler.

Formats Available

I can accommodate lectures, workshops with practical elements, training sessions, or panel discussions. I adjust the structure according to the number of attendees and the time available.

In lecture format, I concentrate on the underlying principles. When including practical elements, I allocate time for participants to try the actions themselves, as etiquette is better retained through doing than merely observing.

With smaller groups, I can shape the session around questions from the floor. For larger audiences, demonstrations tend to form the core.

Using My Sessions for Corporate Training

These sessions suit situations where you wish to standardise the level of guest service and reception. I explain how to establish procedures rather than relying on individual goodwill.

Variations in service quality often stem from a lack of defined procedures. I share the butler's methods for reducing on-the-day decisions by setting clear steps in advance, which organisations can readily apply.

The required content varies by industry, so I tailor each session after hearing about your current situation.

Participants practising bowing during a training session

My Approach When Speaking

I avoid imposing a single correct way. Etiquette varies by situation, so I distinguish between principles and the room for judgement.

While being definitive may seem clearer, it can leave listeners at a loss in real situations. I present the principle and how it may change in a given case.

I also place importance on not intimidating the audience. Etiquette is not meant to make people tense.

How to Make an Enquiry

Please use the enquiry form to let me know the purpose of the event, the number and profile of participants, the duration, and your preferred timing.

As I adjust the content to match the audience's interests, it helps if you can indicate who will be attending. If time is limited, please mention that as well.

Whether I can proceed and under what conditions will be discussed after I hear the details.

Frequently Asked Questions

What sort of lectures can you deliver?

I structure my talks around four themes—the butler's work and philosophy of hospitality, table manners, guest reception etiquette, and the design of service interactions—adapting them to suit the listeners.

Can you include practical elements?

Yes. I allocate time for participants to try the actions themselves, as etiquette is better retained through doing than merely observing. I adjust the structure according to the number of attendees.

Can I book you for corporate training?

Yes. These sessions suit situations where you wish to standardise service levels, and I explain how to establish procedures rather than relying on individual goodwill.

The Basics of Table Manners The Etiquette of Receiving Guests For Media Philosophy and Principles

Enquiries for Lectures and Training

Please let me know the purpose of the event, the number of attendees, the duration, and your preferred timing.

Go to the enquiry form