Both a Lady and a Gentleman Should...
• Respond with, “Well, thank you,†when someone asks how they are doing rather than casual responses such as “good†or “fine.â€
• Always strive to serve, realizing that no task is “beneath†them.
• Wait for a person of higher rank to initiate a handshake.
• Avoid fixing their hair or adjusting articles of their clothing in public, unless it is an emergency. No matter how discreet this might seem, these adjustments are more appropriate in a private setting.
• Respond to emails promptly. Delayed replies indicate a lack of respect for the sender.
• Learn everyone’s names and be able to pronounce them correctly. This indicates a genuine interest and will foster stronger friendships.
• Remember to engage in conversation with those seated at their left and right at mealtime. Talking exclusively with those at the other end of the table can be awkward for others around them.
• Stay away from inside jokes. These remarks rudely exclude others in the group.
• Always return a phone call within 24 hours.