From Downtown Abbey to The Ritz, domestic service to the hospitality industry, Silver Service has become a well-used phrase. As professional domestic staff recruiters and trainers, we get questions about Silver Service all the time. So we’ve decided to answer the big one in this post: Why is Silver Service Etiquette an essential skill?
What is etiquette?
Etiquette is a form or code of behaviour. It has expectations for social interactions according to the cultural and social norms within a society. Or within a social class or group. The French word etiquette was first used in a modern sense in English around 1750. It literally signifies a tag or label.
Why do we need etiquette? Simply put, etiquette provides a sort of accepted social structure for interactions. And it is a building block of culture. Cultures of etiquette can be seen throughout history. And we experience it every day when we interact with others. Forms of etiquette include social, politeness and hygiene. As well as presentation and manners.
Why is Silver Service Etiquette Important?
The etiquette around Silver Service is the key to understanding the techniques and skill. And also to really master this service. Silver Service includes forms of service such as Russian Silver Service, French Silver Service, English Silver Service. To name just a few. It is important to understand the origins behind each form. As well as to fully understand the specific approach. As this key to being able to correctly perform the skills.
Without the etiquette (from hygiene through to presentation and manners). The ability to perform Silver Service will be impossible.
Learning about Silver Service Etiquette
The biggest resource is the internet. Besides that, of course, more traditional libraries and archives. Here you can google and research for free. You can probably find the different types of service and the etiquette behind Silver Service. But be careful as many articles on the internet are incorrect and provide misleading information. Make sure you verify your results.
There are also many training schools offering Silver Service education. And this is a great way to hone new skills. Working in a practical environment and alongside an experienced trainer can be a great experience. It will allow you to practice your skills. And enable you to ask specific questions about the etiquette revolving around different forms of service.
Joining a Silver Service course
Polo & Tweed run regular Silver Service group training courses where we welcome students of all levels and backgrounds to join us for intensive weekends. Why not see our class timetable and enrol on our next Silver Service course. If you prefer to do an online e-learning training course, we offer that too! Have a look at all of our e-learning online training courses here. Or if you just want to learn more about the above, give us a call and we would be happy to speak.