25 Etiquette Habits Only 5% of People Remember

Summary

This video offers a lighthearted yet informative guide to modern etiquette, covering a range of social situations. From handling wardrobe malfunctions discreetly to navigating tricky dining situations, the speaker provides practical tips on how to behave in public and private settings. Emphasizing respect and consideration, the script offers advice on everything from bathroom behavior to office etiquette, showing how small gestures can make a big difference in how we are perceived. The video encourages viewers to embrace these tips for becoming more polite and well-mannered in their daily interactions.

Takeaways

• 😀 When dealing with wardrobe malfunctions (e.g., ripped pants), discreetly solve the issue and avoid sharing the problem with others.
• 😀 In social dining situations, either contribute your fair share to the bill or split it evenly if you're unsure of the cost.
• 😀 Bathroom etiquette includes respecting privacy, not trying to open closed stalls, and maintaining personal space at urinals.
• 😀 Don't apply makeup or comb your hair in a public bathroom near the hand dryer, as it inconveniences others.
• 😀 Blowing your nose in public should be done discreetly, and never at the dining table.
• 😀 It's bad manners to use a toothpick at the table; always excuse yourself to the restroom if needed.
• 😀 If you notice someone's fly is unzipped, inform them privately to avoid embarrassment.
• 😀 Offering a seat to a pregnant woman is polite, but avoid assuming someone's pregnant if they aren't.
• 😀 Always ask for permission before taking a selfie with someone, even if they're a close friend.
• 😀 Be mindful of your digital communication; avoid sending unnecessary emails and text messages outside of work hours.
• 😀 In professional settings, it's best to inform others when you're using speakerphone, and avoid loud conversations in public areas.

Q & A

What should you do if you rip your pants in public?

If your pants rip, discreetly handle the situation by covering the rip with a sweater or jacket. It's important to avoid drawing attention to the issue and to keep your underwear private.

How should you handle splitting the bill when dining out with friends?

If you're dining with friends and the bill is being split, you have two options: either pay for your own meal or contribute evenly, depending on what you ordered. Be considerate of your portion, especially if you had a smaller meal.

What is the proper way to behave when using a public restroom?

In public restrooms, respect privacy by not trying to open a stall door if it's closed. In men's bathrooms, skip urinals to maintain space between individuals, and be mindful of others when using the mirror.

How should you deal with blowing your nose in public?

If you need to blow your nose, do so quietly and quickly, preferably in a private space. Never do it at the dining table—excuse yourself to the restroom if necessary.

What should you do if you spot someone with an unzipped fly?

If you notice someone has an unzipped fly, discreetly inform them in private. If it's your own fly, adjust it only in private spaces, such as a restroom or discreetly against a wall.

How should you approach a sensitive issue with someone, such as bad body odor or poor table manners?

Address sensitive issues privately and respectfully. Frame your feedback as a concern for the person's well-being, ensuring that you explain your intention to help, not to criticize.

What is the correct etiquette when offering a seat to a pregnant woman?

When offering a seat to a pregnant woman, look for signs such as swollen ankles or the lack of high heels. However, if you're unsure, it’s better to stand up and let her decide whether she wants to sit.

Is it acceptable to take selfies with others in public places?

You should always ask for permission before taking a selfie with someone, even if they are close friends. Additionally, it's considered bad manners to take selfies in bathrooms.

What are some important email etiquette tips?

For professional emails, avoid using capital letters (which may appear as shouting), emoticons, and large file attachments. Don't send business-related texts outside of work hours, and always ensure your emails are clear and concise.

What should you do if you need to squeeze lemon over your food or drink in a public setting?

When squeezing lemon, always shield it with your hand to prevent squirting the juice into someone's eye. This small gesture shows consideration for others around you.

How should you handle leftovers when dining at a fancy restaurant?

It’s perfectly acceptable to ask for leftovers to be wrapped up at a fancy restaurant, but avoid doing so after a business meal. The context of the meal should guide whether it’s appropriate.

What is the proper etiquette when dealing with work-related social media interactions?

It’s okay to follow your boss on social media, but don’t attempt to befriend them. Social media friendships imply equality, which may not be suitable in a professional relationship.

How should you drink tea and coffee according to proper etiquette?

When drinking tea, hold the cup with your index finger and thumb, supporting the handle with your middle finger. For coffee, loop your index finger through the handle and support it with your thumb, keeping the other fingers tucked in.

What should you do if you burn your mouth on spicy food?

If you burn your mouth on spicy food, instead of breathing through an open mouth or spitting it out, take a sip of cold water or another drink to help cool down the heat.