William Hanson: Britain’s Leading Voice on Modern Etiquette and Civilised Living

Admin1 week agoLast Updated: February 23, 2026

William Hanson is a British etiquette coach, author, podcast presenter and public speaker recognised internationally for redefining manners in the modern age. Known for his polished delivery, sharp wit and commitment to civility, he has become one of the most visible authorities on contemporary etiquette in the United Kingdom.

Based in London, he serves as Executive Director of The English Manner, the UK’s foremost etiquette and protocol training institution. Alongside his professional training work, he is widely known for his successful podcasts, bestselling books and substantial social media presence.

William Hanson age

Born on 2 September 1989 in Bristol, England, he is 36 years old as of 2025. He has built a career that blends traditional British refinement with a contemporary understanding of social behaviour. Today, he teaches across Europe, America, China, Southeast Asia and the GCC, advising governments, official households, embassies, multinational businesses and television productions.

Early Life and Education of William Hanson

Academic Background

William Hanson was educated at Clifton College, where he developed a strong grounding in language and communication. He later attended The University of Manchester, graduating with a BA (Hons) in English Language, Literacy and Communication between 2008 and 2011.

His academic training laid the foundation for his later work in communication, presentation and protocol. He further enhanced his expertise by studying United Nations Protocol at the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), reinforcing his authority in international diplomatic etiquette.

In recognition of his professional contribution to society and communication, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) in February 2017.

William Hanson and The English Manner

Executive Director Role

Since November 2019, William Hanson has served as Executive Director of The English Manner, an institution established in 2001 by a former member of the Royal Household of Her Majesty The Queen. The organisation is regarded as the United Kingdom’s leading etiquette and protocol training body.

Under his leadership, The English Manner delivers:

Executive presentation coaching
Corporate etiquette workshops
Diplomatic and protocol training
Social and dining etiquette courses
International seminars and tutorials

His work involves coordinating and delivering training both within the UK and abroad. He is considered a trusted advisor to official households, embassies and global corporations, offering guidance on conduct, cultural awareness and professional presentation.

Earlier Roles Within the Organisation

Before becoming Executive Director, he served as Director of Training from 2008 to 2016 and later as Consultant Tutor. His long association with the institution demonstrates sustained leadership and expertise in etiquette education.

William Hanson as an Author

William Hanson is a published author whose books explore manners, protocol and social mobility with a blend of seriousness and humour.

His notable works include:

The Bluffer’s Guide to Etiquette – a witty manual offering practical guidance on social navigation
The Bluffer’s Guide to Entertaining – focused on hosting and social confidence
Protocol to Manage Relationships Today (co-authored in 2020) – examining modern diplomatic and social protocol
Just Good Manners – his latest publication, reinforcing his philosophy that etiquette should be rooted in common sense and respect

His writing is characterised by clarity, accessibility and a modern perspective. Rather than presenting etiquette as rigid or outdated, he positions it as a tool for confidence and thoughtful interaction.

Jordan North and William Hanson podcast

Help I Sexted My Boss

One of William Hanson’s most prominent ventures is the podcast Help I Sexted My Boss, which he co-hosts with Jordan North. The programme combines humorous anecdotes with practical advice on awkward situations and social dilemmas.

The podcast has achieved significant popularity, attracting a wide audience and expanding into live tours and stage shows. Its success has cemented his reputation beyond traditional etiquette circles.

The Luxury Podcast

He also co-hosts The Luxury Podcast with Jonathan Vernon-Smith. This programme explores luxury lifestyle, refinement and elevated living, often discussing social conduct within high-end environments.

Media Contributions

In addition to podcasting, he has been a regular contributor to major media outlets including BBC News, The New York Times and Vanity Fair. He previously worked as a columnist for MailOnline, writing on etiquette, royal protocol and social class.

His expertise is frequently sought when public debates arise around manners, cultural norms or social behaviour.

International Consultancy and Protocol Work

Beyond his media presence, William Hanson has worked extensively as a consultant trainer for Protocolbureau in the Netherlands since 2011. In this capacity, he delivers tutorials and seminars on Western protocol and etiquette for international clients.

His training spans multiple regions, including Europe, America, China, Southeast Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. His work often intersects with diplomatic protocol, executive presence and cross-cultural communication.

Social Media Influence

William Hanson maintains a highly visible presence on social media. On Instagram, he has amassed millions of followers and is known for the phrase:

“A teacup & saucer in a world of mugs.”

Through short-form videos and commentary, he shares etiquette advice, lifestyle insights and humorous reflections on modern conduct. His content frequently addresses everyday scenarios such as dining etiquette, hosting, social introductions and appropriate behaviour in public settings.

His digital reach has introduced etiquette education to younger generations who may not traditionally seek formal training.

William Hanson husband

William Hanson married Mikey Worrall in September 2022. Their wedding took place at Claridge’s in London and was publicly celebrated on social media. Mikey Worrall is a London-based Video Content Producer and former broadcast journalist.

William publicly came out as gay at the age of sixteen and has spoken openly about identity and inclusion. His public life reflects both professional refinement and personal authenticity.

Philosophy and Approach to Etiquette

William Hanson believes that good manners are grounded in common sense rather than social superiority. He frequently emphasises that etiquette should be universal, practical and rooted in respect for others.

Rather than enforcing outdated conventions, he encourages awareness of context, cultural sensitivity and social intelligence. His approach blends tradition with adaptability, ensuring relevance in the twenty-first century.

He strives to help individuals become more conscious of how their behaviour affects others, whether in personal relationships, professional environments or public spaces.

Honours and Recognition

In 2017, William Hanson was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. This honour recognises individuals who have made notable contributions to society through innovation and leadership.

In 2019, he also became a visiting lecturer at Georgetown University in Doha, reflecting his international academic engagement.

Business Representation and Professional Standing

Brand enquiries and media representation are handled by established agencies, indicating a structured and professional approach to his public profile.

His income streams likely include:

Corporate training programmes
International seminars
Podcast revenue
Book royalties
Live tour performances
Media consultancy

While specific financial details are not publicly disclosed, his diversified professional activities position him as a significant figure within the etiquette and media sectors.

Why William Hanson Matters Today

William Hanson represents a modern evolution of British etiquette. He bridges the gap between tradition and contemporary culture, demonstrating that civility remains relevant in a digital age.

His influence extends across corporate leadership training, global diplomacy, publishing, podcasting and social media. By combining wit, scholarship and practicality, he has reshaped public perception of etiquette from rigid rule-following to thoughtful social intelligence.

From Bristol beginnings to international recognition, his career illustrates how manners and communication skills can remain culturally significant while adapting to modern expectations.

Conclusion

William Hanson stands as one of Britain’s foremost authorities on etiquette and protocol. Through his leadership at The English Manner, bestselling books, internationally recognised podcasts and strong social media presence, he has redefined the relevance of civility in modern life.

Grounded in education, international protocol training and media experience, he continues to advocate for respectful communication and refined conduct. In an increasingly informal world, his voice reminds audiences that good manners are not outdated — they are essential.

Frequently asked Questions

1. Who is William Hanson?

William Hanson is a British etiquette coach, author and podcast presenter. He is Executive Director of The English Manner and co-host of the popular podcast Help I Sexted My Boss. He is known for modernising traditional British manners and presenting etiquette in an accessible, humorous way through media, books and social platforms.

2. How old is William Hanson?

William Hanson was born on 2 September 1989 in Bristol, England. As of 2025, he is 36 years old.

3. Is William Hanson married?

Yes, William Hanson is married to Mikey Worrall. The couple married in September 2022 in London and have publicly shared aspects of their relationship on social media.