How To Be Well-mannered

Human beings are social animals. We constantly interact, even those who are termed introverts. For the interactions to go smoothly,

it is important to inculcate good manners. Having good manners are quite helpful in building good relationships with the people we know.

Good manners ensure there is a respect between you and the people you interact with. There is no particular guide for good behaviour but following these tips would be helpful.

1. Develop basic etiquettes :

Basic courtesy is one of the prerequisite needs of a civilized person.  These include:

• Saying “Thank you” to people whenever they do you a favour, a good turn or provide help. It can be the cab driver who drops you off, that waiter at the restaurant. Irrespective of the person’s station in life, show appreciation always.

• Asking to be excused whenever you need someone to allow you pass through in a way out of a crowded area. Doing this significantly increases your chance of being allowed to pass without incident.

• Greeting people: When around those older than you, even your peers, greet. If there are particular gestures or acts that should accompany the greeting, do them. In the case of the elderly, do not talk too much and do not interrupt them.
 

2. Give up your seat for senior citizens :

While journeying in public transport vehicles, make sure that no senior citizen around you is standing. If you find anyone of them standing, offer to leave your seat for them. If they refuse, okay. But make sure to offer first.
 

3. Speak politely :

Always try to speak gently and try to listen to what the other person is saying. Avoid gossiping or backbiting. Keep your conversations civil at all times.

4. Dining Manners :

• Never chew with your mouth open.

• Don’t talk while eating unless it is extremely important you do so.

• If you need to pick a dish, ask for help. Do not put your hand across someone’s plate to take anything from the table.

• Never forget to say “excuse me”  if you leave the dining table before dinner is done with.

• Thank the cook/chef.

5. Hold the door for the person behind you :

While entering an office or any building, if you notice anyone coming behind you then you should pause a little, hold the door and politely ask the person to enter first.

6. Phone etiquettes :

• Never use the phone while driving or eating.

• While receiving a call, focus. Do not talk to others around you while the other person is on the phone. Doing this can annoy the person on the other end.

• Do not use the phone while in a social meeting as this can be misconstrued to mean you are uninterested in the ongoing discussion.

Practicing these small but extremely important rules can help you as you develop your personality and become a better person.