What Is Social Etiquette, And Why Is It Important?

As humans beings, it is very important to master etiquette. Etiquette is the basic set of rules of behaviour in any environment. There are various types of etiquette - Workplace etiquette, Dinner-table etiquette, Social etiquette, and more.

Having good etiquette helps make everyone around you comfortable. It is polite and considered good manners to have good etiquette. This is because it shows that you respect and value the other party.

The most essential type of etiquette is social etiquette. This extends beyond just 'please' and 'thank you'. Social etiquette is used in almost every situation.

It is pretty common to be anxious when meeting someone new or noteworthy. Social etiquette helps you make a good impression and confidently manage any social situation. Having good social etiquette can help you create trust and build long-lasting relationships.

We all know a few of the basic etiquette rules. They are:

1. Greeting people when you meet them and remembering their names.
2. Apologising or thanking people depending on the situation.
3. Politely making your way through a crowd using 'excuse me'.
4. Apologising or Excusing yourself after sneezing.
5. Holding the door for somebody behind you.

Here are some more things that are not commonly known, to follow:

1. When you meet someone face-to-face,

• Greet the other person and introduce yourself with your full name. A firm handshake with a smile goes a long way.
• Saying 'Nice to meet you' is a good ice-breaker.
• Make eye contact, keep a good posture, and look confident, but don't be rude or unprofessional. This helps give you a good impression.
• Don't interrupt someone mid-sentence. Always listen attentively.
• Pay attention to the other person's body language and act appropriately.

1. When you meet someone virtually,

• Dress for the occasion. You may have to turn on your camera, and it is best to be prepared for any situation. You don't want to look sloppy in front of the other person.
• Mute your microphone when you are not speaking to avoid disturbance or background feedback.
• Try to avoid checking your phone or doing something else. You might think you are being discreet. But sometimes, it is pretty evident that you aren't paying attention

1. When you use social media and/on communicate online,

• If you have sent a friend or follow request that hasn't been accepted, it is best to leave it be. Do not send repeat requests.

• Try to only send requests to people you know or who know you in some way. If you wish to connect with somebody else, it is appropriate to message them and state your purpose. Be sure to be clear and not make them uncomfortable.

• Everything you post on social media is visible to others. Remember not to post insensitive material online. It can break people's opinions of you and also make your followers uncomfortable.

• Try to avoid getting into debates or fights online. Learn to let go. It can be mentally exhausting for you and impact how others view you.

• Do not share information or pictures of somebody else without their permission.

  The most important part of etiquette is to ensure the other party isn't uncomfortable. Be kind, humble and considerate. Check out free online courses on Social and other etiquette provided by Glow & Lovely Careers (formerly known as Fair & Lovely Career Foundation). This will help you be your best self and give off a good impression.