Four Inane Questions with local etiquette expert Janis Kliethermes
Photo Courtesy of Janis Kliethermes
In her 15-plus years as an etiquette expert, Janis Kliethermes has seen every awkward faux pas known to man. Undaunted, she’s been on a one-woman crusade to nip each and every one of ’em in the bud through her business, Etiquette Kansas City. (Loud chewers, we’re talking to you!) “I specialize in helping individuals and teams build confidence in social situations,” Kliethermes says. “And I’m on a mission to guide everyone—from kids to CEOs—in making great first impressions and navigating conversation with ease.”
From body language to table manners, Kliethermes’ interactive classes and seminars run the gamut—everything from cell phone etiquette to conversation skills. “Learning manners doesn’t have to be stuffy,” she says. “It helps that I’m known for my sense of humor and approachable style.”
Where does Kliethermes find her inspiration, you ask? “There are plenty of relatable scenarios my family and friends provide,” she jokes.
We caught up with the maven of manners before she was headed to a nearby college campus to enlighten a group of sorority sisters before a big soirée. Not to brag, but we had our legs neatly crossed during the entire interview. Bless.
The Pitch: What song immediately makes you change the channel?
Photo Courtesy of Janis Kliethermes
Janis Kliethermes: “Sweet Caroline!” I know it’s a bit controversial, but I have never liked Neil Diamond and can’t stand that song. Even worse is that my alma mater, Iowa State, plays the darn thing after every home football game. I mean, what is the connection to Iowa? Then, every bar and wedding reception sing-a-long has to include it as well. I know, I know—breathe and get over it, Janis.
What’s the single spiciest thing you’ve ever eaten?
The first thing that comes to mind is my grandmother’s deviled eggs. Now, I understand that deviled eggs aren’t the first thing that pops into your head when thinking spicy. However, on this particular occasion, she mixed up the red paprika with the red cayenne. She liked a lot of color on those eggs—so needless to say, it was a spicy Easter.
If you were an hors d’oeuvre, what hors d’oeuvre would you be?
Pigs-in-a-blanket! They’re salty. They can be saucy. Everyone loves them. Oh, and they’ve been around for a long time, so they’re also comfort food. Plus, who doesn’t like to say pigs-in-a-blanket?
What un-sequeled movie deserves a sequel?
Forrest Gump! Let’s continue with this timeless piece that shows our history—either through the eyes of Forrest or his son. That would be magical. It’s just one movie I can watch over and over again.
Bonus 5th Question: Since the pandemic, what’s been your biggest single splurge/guilty pleasure?
Three-ply toilet paper. You know if you know.
