Social Etiquette: An Update on Everyday Manners

Rules of etiquette have changed.

Previously published on HuffPost.

What once was relevant may no longer apply as society advances. For example, cell phone etiquette was not a conversation until 1973 when the first call was made. Facebook etiquette wasn’t an issue until 2004. Today we pin, post, share, hashtag and swipe on a regular basis. The main premise of etiquette is to show respect for others as our society continues to evolve. Here are a few updates when it comes to manners.

Honorifics

Addressing a married woman as “Mrs. Smith” in a social setting is still perfectly polite. Professionally, it’s more appropriate to use the honorific “Ms.” when speaking to a female businesswoman. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, one in three women participated in the labor force in 1950. By 1998, nearly three of every five women of working age were employed. As more women entered the workforce, “Ms.” evolved as the most applicable, universal and respectful term. However, if someone addresses a married woman as Mrs., keep in mind the gesture is offered as a sign of respect.

Introductions

Years ago, men stood up for introductions while women remained seated. Today, both a man and a woman should stand up for all introductions. Manners and common sense will always prevail.  This rule does not apply when someone is unable to stand due to a physical infirmity.

Handshakes

In earlier times, boys and men were taught to wait for a woman to extend her hand for a handshake. In today’s society, in the United States, the person who enthusiastically extends their hand first demonstrates the highest degree of confidence. Make sure to include a genuine smile with your greeting. Note: cultural differences vary and it’s important to do your homework before traveling abroad.

Kindness

In a business setting, there are no gender preferences. When a man or woman arrives at a door, they simply open it and walk through. When arriving at the table and taking a seat, they reach for their own chair and sit down without hesitation. Socially, it’s still polite for a man to open the door for a woman. However, it’s also a courtesy to hold open the door for anyone you are with, male or female.

Kindness and consideration never go out of style. There will always be room for civility in our ever-changing world.

You may also like 12 Rules of Modern Etiquette. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on HuffPost, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.