In the ever-evolving landscape of social interactions, Millennials and Gen Z often find themselves navigating a complex web of unwritten rules and etiquette. From face-to-face encounters to digital conversations, this article looks at 21 social norms and rules that, in the hustle and bustle of modern life, may occasionally slip their minds. Rediscover some of these forgotten guidelines as we shed light on the subtle nuances that shape our social interactions.
Don’t Keep Calling If Your Call Isn’t Answered
If a person does not pick up your first or second call within a few minutes, it means they are busy. Calling continuously when someone is unable to pick up the call serves no purpose other than to annoy the person you are trying to reach. If a person does not pick up after trying them twice, simply presume that they have something important to attend to, are unable to answer the call or simply do not have their phone on them.
Respect Different Shades of Opinions
As a wise person once said, “What’s 6 to you will appear 9 to someone facing you.” Remember that the world is full of different opinions on a whole host of different matters, and your opinion is just that – yours. It does not necessarily make it the correct one.
Don’t Interrupt
One of the most basic rules of holding a conversation is often forgotten in this day and age. If someone else is talking, do not interrupt them! Once they’ve said all they have to say, there will be time to get your message across. Allow the person you are talking to the courtesy of expressing themselves fully, and in turn, they should do the same.
Praise Publicly. Criticize Privately.
Bear in mind that it’s rude to criticize people publicly (even if they deserve it), and it does not reflect well on the person criticizing. Remember that if an individual is criticizing someone to you, they may very well be criticizing you to someone else. Play it safe, and keep your critiques of others private. Publicly praising those who deserve it will serve you much better.
Never Swipe Right or Left On Someone Else’s Photo Gallery
When someone shows you a photo on their phone, it’s safe to assume that all they want you to see, is the photo they are showing you. It’s not an invitation for you to swipe left or right. You never know what’s next and may end up seeing something you don’t want to see!
Never Give Advice Unsolicited Advice
If your advice isn’t asked for, it means it’s not needed!
Mind Your Own Business
Don’t get caught up in anyone’s business other than your own. Unfortunately, in the modern world of social media, many of us feel we have access to the lives of others simply because we can follow their lives online. It is not the same thing. Unless anything involves you directly – just stay out of it.
Put Your Phone DOWN
If you’re engaged in a conversation with someone, put your phone away – that means, in your bag or in your pocket, and not left face down on the table. Not only is it a major distraction, but it’s also downright rude and indirectly tells the person you are speaking with that you’re not really interested in the conversation.
Return Borrowed Money
If anyone was decent enough to loan money to another in their time of need, be sure to pay it back before they need to ask for it. Not only will they appreciate the gesture, but it shows the integrity and appreciation of the borrower. This can be applied to umbrellas, pens, lighters, and lunch boxes!
Always Hold Open the Door for the Person Behind You
Holding the door open for the person behind you is a simple and easy way of showing respect and kindness to others, whether you know them or not. The question is, why wouldn’t you? It costs nothing to have manners.
Never Order the Expensive Dish on the Menu…
… when someone else is paying. If someone is kind enough to take you out to eat, choosing the most expensive dish on the menu is not the best way to say thank you.
Avoid Awkward Questions
Some topics are sensitive. They may seem like nothing, but you never really know what someone is going through and what might upset them. Avoid asking questions about why a person is still single or hasn’t gotten married yet, why a person doesn’t have kids or has so many kids, or why they rent a house or car rather than own one. The individual may indeed have their reasons, and they are under no obligation to share them with you.
Age and Salary Are No-Go Zones
Of course, it’s natural to know the ages of your classmates, friends, and family members, but the number may be less obvious for people you have just met or are unfamiliar with. Asking their age is not a good conversation starter, and to be honest, it’s not really anyone’s business but their own. The same applies to salaries.
That said, if they mention their age or salary, then it’s an indication that they are comfortable talking about it. Always use your judgment!
Don’t Tease Unnecessarily
A joke is a joke only when it’s funny, and teasing someone doesn’t quite meet that criteria – especially when they make it known that they are not enjoying it. If you have a habit of teasing someone and they express their disapproval, just be sure to stop and avoid doing it in the future.
Remember The Art of Good Manners
The simple words ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ go a long, long way, especially in a world where younger generations do not prioritize good manners. There is nothing wrong with saying please when asking for something and thanking others when they have offered assistance in some way.
Other People’s Weight Does Not Concern You
There’s almost never a reason to comment on someone’s weight. If you haven’t seen someone in a while, starting the conversation with how much weight they’ve lost is not cool. Instead, offer compliments. If they want to talk about their weight loss (or gain for that matter), they will bring it up themselves.
Remove Your Sunglasses
Many agree that people should remove their sunglasses whilst inside unless there is a medical reason for not doing so. However, it’s also good manners to remove your sunglasses if you bump into someone in the street and strike up a conversation. After all, eye contact is important!
Doctor’s Appointments Are Personal
If a friend or colleague mentions that they have a doctor’s appointment, you don’t need to ask what it’s for. Instead, just wish them well and say you hope they are okay. Not everyone wants to share their medical issues, so there is no need to put them in an uncomfortable position by asking them. As always, if someone wants to talk about something, they will bring it up themselves.
Cleaners and CEOs Deserve The Same Respect
Respect is a fundamental human virtue that should be extended to everyone, regardless of their professional status or societal position. Whether one is a cleaner responsible for cleaning your home or workplace or a CEO steering a corporation, both contribute to the functioning of our communities and organizations. It’s important to recognize this and acknowledge everyone’s efforts.
Be Considerate With What You Say and To Whom…
Always match the words you use with the audience you are addressing, and remember the effect your words could have on people. For example, never boast about your riches or make personal displays of wealth whilst among the less fortunate. Equally, never rave about parenthood or having a large family when speaking with those that you know are struggling to conceive or start their own families. A little consideration goes a long way!
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