An Introduction To Basic Manners And Etiquette

By Marci Glover


Being polite is something that is pretty simple to do. Unfortunately it is also something we can often forget, especially in stressful situations. This is why it helps to be aware of basic manners and etiquette in order to maintain good relationships with people and generally be a good person to interact with.

One of the simplest methods of being polite is to say please and thank you. This is something people appreciate. It is important that people aware you feel grateful for what you want from them. Equally if you give something to people it should be done in a way that makes them feel you are thinking about them. This can also extend to arriving at the time you say you will be there, replying promptly and politely to emails and so forth.

Punctuality is also an important issue. In the modern era it has become a lot easier to plan journeys. A quick check using your computer or smart phone will allow you to find out about any potential delays, when the buses and trains arrive and so forth. This will make it easier to plan ahead, preferably planning so you can arrive early in case of any delays.

This is also the case when it comes to manners. If you are in doubt sense the tone. The idea of good manners is to put people at their ease. In general it is best to engage with people as much as possible. For example you should not take a phone call in the middle of a conversation. If the call is important you should excuse yourself first and then come back to the table, preferably by quickly addressing the problem, saying you will call the person back and then getting back to the person you are with as soon as possible.

Another problem people can have is punctuality. If you need to get to a meeting then you should get a bus or leave early to allow time for traffic, delays and so forth. If you are delayed then you have to contact people as soon as possible to let them know you will be late. With cell phones there is no excuse and it should be possible to do a quick text or call to let them know.

In recent years some issues around etiquette have changed. For example it was often expected that men hold doors open for women. However some women can find this patronising. In order to avoid this there is a simple solution. All you need to do is hold doors open for everyone!

Another key bit of etiquette people need to be aware of is conversation. The important thing to do is sense the tone of the people around you. Some people will be more sensitive to bad language, controversial topics and so forth and it is important to know when to start a conversation and when to change the subject. This equally applies to being online as it does to real life. If you would not be prepared to say something to someone face to face you should not say it to them online.

The simplest bit of advice when it comes to politeness is to consider how you would expect to be treated. This should apply to everyone you talk to regardless of whether they are a friend, someone serving you pancakes or the customer service agent who has to deal with a complaint. Generally if you are polite and willing to engage with people they are more likely to do the same with you!




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