While certain practices may be obvious to some, others have lacked an education in social etiquette. Unfortunately, having bad manners makes a lasting impression on people, even if such actions were done unintentionally. To avoid dirty looks and rolled eyes, here are some polite manners that you should always keep in mind in case no one has told you!
- Always say thank you if someone is holding the door open for you
- If you are hanging out one-on-one with someone, don’t be on your phone while they’re talking to you
- When someone (like a friend’s parent) drives you somewhere, say thank you!
- If someone is paying for you, don’t get something overly expensive or take advantage of their kindness
- Don’t put your shoes on the seats of someone else’s car
- Always let people out before you go in (on the subway, elevator, plane, etc.)
- Always be aware of your surroundings! If you have a backpack on or a large purse, don’t hit anyone with it because you have no spacial awareness
- Do not stand less than ~10 inches away from someone else in line
- If you’re in a public space and walking slow, move to the side
- In the same vein, do not walk 3+ people across and block the sidewalk/hallway
- If an establishment is closed, then leave ASAP.