Jukebox Hero: Jeannie Vaage
After 35 years of teaching high school, I decided to go to The Protocol School of Washington course in 2013.
Before I made the decision to enroll in the course, I knew that I wanted to teach etiquette to individuals who might want to improve their social skills. I realized I needed to get some accreditation, so upon researching, it was obvious that PSOW was one of the best etiquette organizations in the world. So off I went.
This was truly one of the best experiences in my life. I was absolutely taken aback by everything they presented. I had no idea that I would fall in love with the art the etiquette - both social and business.
When I returned back to my city, Edmonton Alberta Canada, my daughter, who was in marketing, insisted a website should be developed and I should have my own company teaching the skills I have learned.
So, VIP Protocol, the name of my company, was created.
How do you utilize your PSOW training?
Now six years later and many successes AND mistakes, I’ve created some of my own programs all based on The Outclass the Competition and the Dining like a Diplomat programs from PSOW. I present to a variety of organizations such as our Royal Canadian Mounted Police (dining etiquette and boardroom etiquette), doctor’s offices, Senior home staffs, University and College organizations just to name a few. I am a regular presenter at a business college where the majority of the students are from India.
What topics do you teach the most (or favorite topics to teach)?
The VIP Protocol Signature Training Programs include: The Polished Professional; Office Bootcamp; Medical Office Etiquette; and Women in Leadership-Business Etiquette for the Professional Woman.
I am especially proud of the Women in Leadership program I offer. Having worked with a number of female professionals, I realize this is a territory in its infant stages and that so many women are looking for direction to take them into their professional future. Through all of these programs, it always amazes me to see how the millennial’s and Gen Zee demographics are yearning for these soft skills.
How has PSOW had an impact on your life/career?
During the past six years I have had the honor to be on local and national television and radio. I love to spread the “good” word and am often stopped and asked if I am the etiquette lady on TV. I am often a keynote speaker on the subject of “Nailing the Networking Event”. I’m always so proud to say I studied at The Protocol School of Washington.
Because I work with such a variety of different industries and to support my blogs, I spend a great deal of time researching. I love to study the theory, history and practice of both social and business etiquette. It truly excites me, and I can often spend hours just reading and preparing to present to groups from pathologists to mechanics.
Teaching etiquette and being a global representative of PSOW, I have found that I’ve become more patient and considerate. But even more importantly, by working with the professionals of today, I’m forced to stay up-to-date with regards to the socially political norms that are evolving. This keeps one current, very open-minded and young-at-heart.
What advice would you give to those who are considering attending a course at PSOW?
For those considering attending The Protocol School of Washington, I would like to tell them to look forward to being totally accepted no matter what their experience or background is. The course presents a very welcoming and non-threatening environment. For that I was so thankful. Also, be prepared to meet people from all over the world that are friendly, open, and excited to share their stories and listen to yours.
The variety of attendees is something I will always remember. For the new future graduates of PSOW, I would suggest getting to know personally as many of the other attendees during the course. Because not only is the training one receives there, but the camaraderie as well, is so special. Both of which will last a lifetime.
Is there a song in which its lyrics resonates with you?
“I Just Called To say I Love You” is my fav song
If there’s one thing we should know about you, it is…
One thing (or two) you ‘might ‘want to know about me:
I was trained a professional ballet dancer and hold 2 degrees in music. I do the Ballet Barre every day and have for the last 40 years. I love champagne and making people laugh!
Thank you to PSOW for truly changing the direction of my life work.
Jeannie Vaage
2013 PSOW Graduate