The term etiquette can sound quaint and old fashioned. However in the modern world manners are more important than ever. With more forms of technology there are more potential ways you could offend people. Therefore it is vital to be aware of basic manners and etiquette.
The most basic thing to do is to say please and thank you. In simple terms you are asking someone for something and they have to give it to you. If someone is serving you food in a restaurant it does not matter that it is their job you should still be polite to them. Saying thank you also shows you appreciate what you have been given.
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.
Unfortunately delays can sometimes happen that are beyond your control. If you are know you are going to be late it is good manners to inform people that you are going to be late so they can make alternative arrangements as necessary. However if you are well organised you are less likely to face these kinds of problems as you can allow time for delays.
With the rise of the internet there is also the issue of internet etiquette. The additional anonymity and the ability to quickly post messages can often lead to insensitivity and conversations that could be misinterpreted. A good rule is that anything you would not say to someone face to face should not be posted online.
With regard to phones there is a whole array of etiquette to be aware of. It is best to either set them to silent or turn them off. Taking a call in the middle of a meeting or while talking can be very rude as the inference is that this call is more important than the person you are talking to.
Another complication is that some actions that were previously considered polite can be considered patronising now. A good example is opening doors. Some women can find patronising if you open doors just for them. A better approach is to open doors for everyone as this is just general politeness.
In simple terms being polite and having good manners is not about being a pushover. It is about being able to maintain self control and put people at their ease regardless of whether they are a valet picking up your car or a potential investor in your company. Check online for more information about specific etiquette for various social situations to help you overcome any unintentional social embarrassment.
The most basic thing to do is to say please and thank you. In simple terms you are asking someone for something and they have to give it to you. If someone is serving you food in a restaurant it does not matter that it is their job you should still be polite to them. Saying thank you also shows you appreciate what you have been given.
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.
Unfortunately delays can sometimes happen that are beyond your control. If you are know you are going to be late it is good manners to inform people that you are going to be late so they can make alternative arrangements as necessary. However if you are well organised you are less likely to face these kinds of problems as you can allow time for delays.
With the rise of the internet there is also the issue of internet etiquette. The additional anonymity and the ability to quickly post messages can often lead to insensitivity and conversations that could be misinterpreted. A good rule is that anything you would not say to someone face to face should not be posted online.
With regard to phones there is a whole array of etiquette to be aware of. It is best to either set them to silent or turn them off. Taking a call in the middle of a meeting or while talking can be very rude as the inference is that this call is more important than the person you are talking to.
Another complication is that some actions that were previously considered polite can be considered patronising now. A good example is opening doors. Some women can find patronising if you open doors just for them. A better approach is to open doors for everyone as this is just general politeness.
In simple terms being polite and having good manners is not about being a pushover. It is about being able to maintain self control and put people at their ease regardless of whether they are a valet picking up your car or a potential investor in your company. Check online for more information about specific etiquette for various social situations to help you overcome any unintentional social embarrassment.
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