While the word 'etiquette' often comes off a bit lofty, the idea behind it is simply to show good manners and be polite. It's a matter of respect for those around you. Hopefully, the result is that you'll be treated well in return. Even if you think you have a grasp on how to behave in public, take a moment to brush up on the following tips:
1. Please and thank you. We were all taught these words pretty much before we learned to walk, and with good reason. Civilized conversations need to show respect for others. When you ask, rather than tell, someone to do something for you the entire interaction goes over much better. Another basic manner is to shake hands when being introduced to someone and make sure that you introduce the person standing next to you, as well.
2. Eating. The way a person acts at the dinner table says a lot about them and the way they were raised. Never speak with your mouth full. Nothing you have to say is important enough to show the partially chewed contents within. Put your napkin on your lap the moment you sit down and keep your elbows at your side and off the table. One more thing - never blow your nose without leaving the room first. Simply excuse yourself and come back to the table when you have finished.
3. Behaving in public. Even if you are by yourself walking down the street, there are ways that you can show respect for others instead of pushing your own agenda on them. If, for example, you get caught up in a line or traffic, show patience. Your destination usually isn't any more important than anyone else's. When in a movie theater, always turn your cell phone off and don't disturb those around you by eating loudly.
4. The host with the most. Entertaining, or being entertained, comes with a whole new set of manners to live by. Thank-you notes are always required after receiving a gift or even a kind gesture. When having people to your home, never ask them to remove their shoes. Carpets can be cleaned and asking people to take off shoes isn't the way to go. If they offer, that's different. Always introduce your guests to one another and do your best to keep the conversation flowing. If religious or political topics threaten to dampen the mood, change the subject quickly. Finally, always offer refreshments within minutes of greeting your guests.
5. Hello? Phone etiquette, specifically the lack thereof, is an especially big peeve to some people. While it may be cute to put a youngster on your answering machine, it is pretty annoying to the busy person on the other end trying to leave a quick message. Make sure there is no background noise when you are trying to have a conversation and don't leave your callers on hold for more than 30 seconds. It's a simple matter of putting value on someone else's time. Keep all these things in mind and you'll show a good example for others.
Author Resource:-
Julie Robinson writes on general interest and education topics including accredited online colleges and scholarships for academic performance.
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