Putting on the Polish: A Guide to Image Enhancement for Men and Women

Jane M. Wilson is a Toronto-based chartered financial analyst in the
investment business.

“With this book, you’ll be able to initiate these improvements in
the privacy of your own home without anyone knowing you need a little
help. [The book] is your resident image consultant. Always right there
to bolster your confidence.” So says the author of this manual on
grooming and manners. Its scope is rather too ambitious; readers seeking
its guidance on oyster forks, cruise-ship tipping, and proper Wimbledon
attire must endure discussions of skin creams and advice on the use of
eyelash curlers.

Appearance and poise are covered at length, but much of the advice on
grooming and behavior is banal. There are extensive sections on
weddings, formal attire, entertaining, and written correspondence. Many
subjects, such as the use of titles, are dealt with more superficially
than in some alternative guides to proper etiquette. The book does not
deal with forms of address for the peerage or for military and political
personnel in any detail.

The career and business chapter devotes some 20 pages to international
customs. Although résumés and interviews, hierarchical protocol,
meetings, and speeches are treated quite well, this book would make a
tactless gift, except for a young person starting a career; its
sometimes sententious tone and trite commentary seems directed at such a
reader.

Nor is the book well edited. There are several repetitions, as well as
digressions that are clearly inconsonant with the book’s theme (e.g.,
suggestions on coping with hotel fires and traveling with children).
Nevertheless, almost everyone will find some information worth saving
for future reference and learn of at least one or two avoidable social
solecisms. The author has extensive experience in business and in the
media, and now runs her own trade and consumer promotions company from
Vancouver.