The more things change, the more some things stay the same.

That’s certainly true of etiquette. There are lots of etiquette details that will help you look and act precisely right, but the principles never change. Master the ageless basics, and many niceties fall into place.

“Etiquette boils down to character,” says Jacqueline Whitmore, founder and director of the Protocol School of Palm Beach. “Honesty to this day is still the best policy. Dishonesty will shred your credibility faster than anything.”

Adds Alinda Lewris, president of the International Association of Protocol Consultants, “What is timeless is kindness and respect. However you implement that should work well. A smile is universal. And a strong, warm, wonderful handshake helps you cross boundaries.”

The eternal principles will get you in the door, but to stay there, learn the etiquette details that will make you welcome anywhere.