Protocol
Social protocol is an aspect of etiquette defined as a code of behavior that delineates expectations for social behavior according to contemporary norms within a society, social class or group.
The French word etiquette literally signified a tag or label first used in the French Royal Court in the early to mid 1700’s to instruct guests on how to behave when dining at the King’s Table. In modern times, in the more common situation where the dinner table or other social gathering must be organized according to the degree of social rank and familial or professional relationships among the guests, it falls to the discretion of the hostess to determine who will take the highest position at the table as Guest of Honor to be seated at the right of the Hostess, with the Guest of Honor’s partner seated to the right of the Host.
At our Formal Dinners here at the Starkey Mansion, whatever the nature of our guests, this principal is still the foundation upon which the seating placement is based, and it does much to determine the social interaction and conversation during and after the meal.
Formal Protocol in Private Service has evolved a great deal in recent decades since Private Service emerged from the shadows of servitude! The old language of “Inferiors” and “Superiors” has long since passed, but some things have stayed the same. The Starkey International Institute has strongly advanced the education of both Service Professionals and Principals based on the premise that mutual respect is the only stable foundation for the Relationship of Service. Our clients have consistently emphasized the importance of propriety and respect in dealing with their employers and co-workers, but Household and Estate Managers also learn to set proper boundaries with Principals in order to honor their role as professionals. Protocol always serves good manners and efficiency. The order of introductions at social events offers a fine example.
The Starkey Mansion is located in the center of Denver, Colorado, just one block from Colorado’s State Capitol building. Architecturally the Mansion is very secure, which is enhanced by our security alarm system. Individual keys are provided to each student. Security codes and procedures will be discussed with the students upon arrival at the Institute. Safe working practices are stressed from the first day of school and throughout the entire program. First aid kits, carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguishers, and hardwired smoke detector alarms are located throughout the Mansion. Exits and evacuation procedures are discussed on the first day of class and are posted in the Mansion. The Mansion is a non-smoking environment.