Etiquette

5 Underpinning Rules

With such a wealth of etiquette rules to be familiar with and to apply in our lives, it is hard to remember them all. However, all of these rules come from common principles and the following is a good way to apply yourself, even if you are unaware or unfamiliar of the correct etiquette:

You can’t replace instinctive kindness, thoughtfulness, consideration and respect with rules. Being a gentleman transcends convention and a simple genuine interest in others will make people feel special.

Good manners are not just for people you wish to impress or for strangers. Your thoughts, words and deeds should not do anything which is unpleasant for others (e.g. rudeness, littering, swearing, spitting, untidiness, being ungroomed etc.). Never humiliate others, even if they display a lack of or bad etiquette and manners.

Adding a simple “please” and “thank you”, being punctual and assisting others does just this. Remembering not to take more than your share (pavement/sidewalk, road, seat, arm rest, food, drink etc.) is also an important part.

Few people have the same backgrounds, cultures and beliefs so remember to appreciate local laws and customs – and etiquette rules. Learning about others and sharing views and ideas can be one of life’s greatest adventures.

Even if you think that deep down you're not, seek to appear virtuous. A gentleman always comes out of everything smelling of roses. Remember that your most valuable commodity is yourself. By the correct practice of etiquette, you are displaying all your best marketing techniques. This attracts interest and creates a positive impression which lasts long after you have departed.

These underpinning rules should see you through most social interactions but should not be seen as the easy way to avoid learning the correct etiquette. If you are applying the above you will develop a willing and eager spirit, which will make you want to know the correct etiquette to apply.

"What you dislike in another take care to correct in yourself". – Thomas Sprat.