"What is the single most important thing for a person to know when selecting an etiquette/image coach", was the question that recently I've been asked by Walethia Aquil. Here I would like to share my personal opinion. 

Most of the people I think would say “An etiquette certification from a reputable institution”. I personally would not just rely on that. If I'm supposed to spend really lots of money on it I would take into consideration also other points (see below). 

* How many years of experience does this coach have in this particular sector? (Is there also some international experience involved in it?)

* What do other people say about this coach? (the press, testimonials from the corporate website, clients on the internet, reviews, etc.). I would not just rely on it but if possible even getting in touch with those who have given positive feedback.

* Are there any other credentials (having written an etiquette book, etc.)

* What is the coaching/training/presenting style of this professional? (I would check for videos online or audio/video podcasts which might give me some kind of idea.)

* How much does the person care about his clients? I would approach the person by email, on the phone or – if not living too far away – even personally. Then I would have a look at how much attention this coach dedicates to his potential clients. I would expect great customer service.

* Is the person applying all those etiquette rules that s/he is preaching? (I would try to contact the person on the phone, by email or/and in person).  This would give me a quite good idea about it.

* And once you get to talk to him/her personally, how passionate does s/he sound about this subject, his core business? 

* Is this coach able and willing to deliver a tailor-made training program for my specific needs?

* What is the image/appearance of the coach? How does the coach present him/herself?

* An etiquette certification from a reputable institution (as mentioned at the beginning). 

What do you, dear Reader, think? I would be very interested in your opinion or/and personal experiences in hiring one. 

An Etiquette Expert I would highly recommend is 

Diane Gottsman

www.protocolschooloftexas.com