For Immediate Release

Modern Manners

CONTACT:  Christine Chen

301-580-7780

modernmanners@erols.com

www.modernmanners.net

INTRODUCING “THE CONTEST” –

A VIDEO OF SOCIAL SKILLS FOR TEENS

Gaithersburg, MD, May 1, 2003 -  Modern Manners recently produced a teen etiquette video that addresses essential social skills that our teens will need to succeed in a very competitive world. 

Did you know that you have five seconds to make an impression?  That’s not much time!  Did you also know that according to recent studies conducted by Harvard University, The Carnegie Foundation, and The Stanford Research Institute that 85% of an individual’s success in getting, keeping, and advancing in a position depends on people skills, and only 15% on technical knowledge and skills?    Pretty remarkable!

Our teens could use a little help.  This video addresses social skills such as how to answer the phone, holding doors for others, starting conversations, and shaking hands when introduced.  Sound boring?   Not at all!  All these important social skills are intertwined in a sitcom-type video that grabs their attention.   Competition for their attention is pretty fierce, so why not give them something they can relate to.    We live in a fast-paced society that limits the etiquette training our teens need.  Unfortunately, just the word “Etiquette” conjures visions of extended pinkies while sipping tea, fancy events such as weddings, or a long list of old-fashioned rules.  Here’s a chance to put to rest all those misconceptions and focus on the true meaning of etiquette – respect for yourself and others.   Now is the time to build these important life skills.  Why not give the gift that will last a lifetime while making it entertaining at the same time!

About the Video

The Contest: Building Social Skills That Last A Lifetime

(Running time approximately 40 minutes)

Nick, a typical teen, well behaved, but unrefined, just wins a contest to meet his favorite rock star, Jaffe.  The prize includes a night out with three friends in a limo, dessert at the hottest restaurant in town, and then on to preview Jaffe’s new music video.  Nick is faced with an even tougher contest when he decides to invite Jennifer, the girl of his dreams, as one of his guests to accompany him on the phenomenal evening.  However, there’s one problem, Jennifer barely even knows he exists!

Realizing that he needs all the help he can get if he is going to win the heart of this lady, Nick invites his cousin, Susan, along for the ride if she will agree to help.  Luckily, Susan agrees to give Nick a few pointers, especially in the area of manners and behaving like a gentleman.   But things go from bad to worse when Nick invites Jimmy, his best friend from school.  Jimmy is an oblivious mess!  To make matters worse, Jimmy is out to sabotage Nick’s efforts to be a gentleman.  Through their hilarious mishaps and blunders, Nick, Susan, Jennifer, and yes, even Jimmy, learn what a difference kind manners and respect for one another can make.

NOTE:  This is a first in a series of etiquette videos