I thought I would stray from the normal leadership and management curriculum I usually stick to and write a post about another related challenge that managers face on a daily basis:Tying ties!!!
Even though I have plenty of practice tying ties, I still struggle with figuring out which style I want to tie and how to tie it. Usually I end up going to youtube and getting some temporary education I know that I will struggle with again on the next tie wearing occasion. If you feel the same way and want to know what knot is best for what occasion and what each looks like, keep reading.
There are over 100 ways to tie a necktie so get ready to make some morning decisions. Let’s take a brief look at a few of the more common knots:
1. The Windsor knot. This is usually an all-purpose knot appropriate for business meetings, interviews, and anywhere else you are going where you want a full-bodied knot and a respectable look. Developed primarily by the Duke of Windsor (Edward VIII) the Windsor knot fashion was adopted by Americans starting in the 1930’s and was considered comfortable and relaxed. The knot is self releasing, and can be worn with a dimple, double dimple, or worn flat.
Here is one of the better instructional videos I have found on how to tie the Windsor:
2. Half-Windsor knot. A true businessman knows the difference between a half Windsor and other similar knots. Usually the collar style is a good determining factor on which knot you choose. The Half-Windsor is a more assertive looking knot that is medium in size and is more formal than the four-in-hand. It can also be worn for generally any occasion and is fit for ties made of light to medium fabric thickness.
3. The Small Knot. This knot is exactly as it sounds. It is useful for thicker ties and narrow collars.
4. The Four-in-Hand. This is another smaller simple knot and is usually the most popular because it is easier to tie. This knot started for coach drivers of the past who tied the tie in the Four-in-hand style to keep it from floating around in the wind. It is considered appropriate for all occasions.
5. The Prince Albert Knot. This is a very small tight not that goes good with shirts that have long and narrow collars.
Here is a great site with some more detailed explanations and good instructions on how to accomplish that sometimes impossible morning task. Tie one on!
Adam Partain 
This is not as easy as it looks. I had to watch TWO different videos to get the full windsor down. I’ve tied what I think is a half windsor for many years
Thanks Bret! Until I got to UNR I always tied what I thought was the Half-Windsor but I think it was actually something of my own creation and not an official knot at all. I figured I should save myself some embarrassment and figure it all out before too many people see!