February 22, 2025  |   

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As we go about our busy lives, often little everyday courtesies tend to go by the wayside. 

However, recently, I’ve had time to do a bit more people watching when out and about or traveling.

Below are courtesies and manners that I’ve observed to be lacking a bit. These all seem like common courtesies that everyone should know…but we often forget.

Do a little self-assessment on these twelve and see how you score.

Of course, there are many more common courtesies that show respect to others. In the comments, please feel free to list some that could be added to this list.

12 Everyday Courtesies to Not Forget

  1. When yawning, cover your mouth discreetly with your hand.
  2. If you sneeze or cough, do so into your elbow, not your hand.
  3. Always hold the door for the person behind you. And, open it for someone carrying a load or pushing a baby stroller. You get the idea…
  4. Say “pardon me please” or “excuse me, please”…when you enter your row at the movies or symphony and others are already seated.
  5. In a crowded room, (i.e. networking event, cocktail reception, etc.) if you need to move past others, say excuse me please, as you squeeze past them.
  6. When dining out, keep your phone tucked away and have real conversations with those you’re with.
  7. On a flight, offer assistance to someone struggling to place a roller board in the overhead bin.
  8. When stopped at a traffic signal and someone wants to pull out from a parking area, let them merge in front of you if possible.
  9. In the checkout line, avoid talking on your phone while the cashier is ringing up your items. Instead, ask how their day is going. And if they’re wearing a name badge, use their name in conversation. You will be their favorite customer!
  10. In an Uber, avoid eating or drinking. Try not to slam the door too hard, and ask the driver how his/her day is going. And, be sure to tip! Before you know it, you’ll rank as a 5-star passenger!
  11. When wearing a baseball cap, remove it in a restaurant or place of worship.
  12. Say “please” and “thank you.” When we don’t say “please,” we’re demanding something rather than asking politely for it. When we don’t say “thank you,” we are expecting rather than appreciating

These 12 everyday courtesies to not forget will show you are well-mannered and respect others.

Rachel Wagner is a licensed business etiquette consultant, trainer, and speaker. She is the owner of the Oklahoma-based business etiquette firm Rachel Wagner Etiquette and Protocol. Twice Rachel has been awarded “Woman Owned Business of the Year” by the Bixby Metro Chamber of Commerce.
Rachel provides training on professional business and dining etiquette topics. Her new and repeat corporate clients range from many industries around the country. As an etiquette expert, she is interviewed and quoted in a variety of local and national media outlets. These include The Washington Post, MONEY, Forbes, Reader’s Digest and many, many more. 

Photo credit: Rachel Wagner