Friday, May 23, 2014

An Introduction To Basic Manners And Etiquette

An Introduction To Basic Manners And Etiquette

By Marci Glover


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.

However this is the time when manners become even more important. You are more likely to get a complaint resolved if you talk in a polite tone rather than rant and rave at the person on the other end of the phone. This does not mean you become a pushover and you still need to be firm but being polite is not the same as letting people walk over you.

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 issue with regard to politeness is what you discuss. Certain issues such as politics and religion can be very sensitive and it is best to avoid discussing them with people you do not know as this can often result in a tense atmosphere. If you get to know people this can be easier but it is important to sense the tone when bringing up a conversation topic.

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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