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How to Be: All the Time |
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Etiquette is one of those areas most guys either think they know everything about or wonder they should ever bother. And in short, the reason is simple - part of being an attractive guy to women and customers and your coworkers and your family is what you show from the inside out. Knowing how to be isn't the hard part. Remembering to practice it is. And if you're already practicing the following tips and you're Mr. Perfect, you're free to go. Class dismissed. But before you grab your books and go, know that everyone can use a refresher course now and then — hey, we let some of these slip from time to time, too. Take a moment to review the following points: Be Polite. Say "Please" and "Thank You" when asking for and receiving something. Say "Excuse Me" or "Pardon me" if you want someone to get out of your way, are getting up from the table or a meeting, didn't hear something properly, or belched.
Pardon the Interruption. When you butt-in and don't allow others to finish what they are saying, you come off as over-eager and disrespectful. Just like on the playground back in the day, wait your turn. If you absolutely have to interrupt, a simple "excuse me" should keep your face from being punched.
Help Her Out. Whether it's a family member, a friend, or your girl, help her with her coat, with her chair when sitting down, and with carrying her stuff.
Everyone Goes Before You. A strapping, healthy specimen such as yourself holds the door for and gives your seat up to the following: women, children, your elders, and those with health concerns.
What Time Is It? "Fashionable" lateness isn't fashionable; rather, it's disrespectful. Be it a business function, meeting, date, or family get-together, keeping someone waiting sends the message that whomever you are meeting isn't important enough for you to work your schedule around. If the appointment/date/event says 8:30 p.m., see if you can be there 5-10 minutes ahead of time, or call in advance and let the person or host know you're running behind.
The Education of David, Part I in an Ongoing Series:
David used to have a huge punctuality problem. One time, he was an hour-and-a-half late meeting a friend at a bar, who was leaving as David was entering. David apologized profusely, but his friend kept on walking right on out the door. "Some other time," she said, "when you've got more time." He doesn't do that anymore.
Shake It Like You Mean It. Men or women, it doesn't matter: you shake hands with a firm grip. Remember you're neither playing a game of "mercy" grip nor giving someone a limp dishrag. Make direct eye contact and shake the whole hand, not just the front half.
We're Not In Deadwood. Cut back on the cursing, staring, and spitting. Yes, our language can get a bit colorful, we do like looking at pretty women, and we all have to hock something now and then. Just try to curb your first instinct and catch yourself before someone else does.
Showing Off: Whether it's your money, your car, your woman, the success of your investments, your house, your TV, or any other stuff, don't brag or show off. Keep it low-key. People are turned off by a self-indulgent, self-aggrandizing jerk. Don't be one. We're Not At The Ballgame, Either. No nose picking or crotch adjustment in public. When you're in your car, remember you have windows -- we see you in there digging for paydirt! This is one reason you carry a handkerchief. And if you must adjust, engage in the privacy of the restroom. You're not Allen Iverson so stop showing off your ball-handling skills.
Take It Like A Man. Accept responsibility. This applies at home, at the office, with friends, with family, and with women. Folks hate it most when something goes wrong and the person responsible doesn't claim their share. If you mess up, fess up.
Save It For Later. It's unavoidable. If you eat or drink something, you're going to generate gas. The thing is not to share it with everyone. Move away from others and seek out the nearest bathroom.
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Your Life 
